John Walton and Rod Tegels founded Advanced Laser Machining Inc (ALM) in October, 1996 and have been operating profitably for 12 years with 2008 annual sales estimated to be $10.5 million. 

ALM started operations with a staff of four at the Chippewa Valley Innovation Center a manufacturing incubation center located in Eau Claire, within 18 months ALM graduated from the incubation center. At that time ALM expanded and leased a new facility in the Riverside industrial Park in Chippewa Falls.  In 2004 John and Rod purchased the leased building and added $750,000 in new equipment to the business. Through an increase in sales and customers by 2005 ALM had doubled in size, going from 17,000 square feet to 34,000 square feet with an additional $1 million in new equipment purchased.  In 2008 an additional $1 million in laser and machining equipment had again been added to ALM's manufacturing capabilities.  Fifteen new manufacturing and administrative positions have been added in 2008 making the current employee count at 53, with plans to hire additional positions through 2009.

ALM specializes in contract metal fabrication including punching, laser cutting, forming, welding, and assembly for the industrial application. ALM utilizes cutting edge technology with an extraordinary staff to provide exceptional results, ensuring the customer gets exactly what they need.  ALM is committed to quality in customer service and in the manufacturing process. ALM is ISO 9001:2000 certified.

In 2007 ALM was named as one of the top 5000 growing private companies in the country by Inc 5000, www.inc.com.  By staying on top of new technology, ALM has been able to draw interest from companies working on major contracts. In 2008 ALM was awarded their first direct government contract. ALM products are used in defense, aerospace, computer and commercial transportation industries.

The overall goal for ALM is to be known as one of the best places to work in the Chippewa Valley.