What began as a small, rudimentary tool and die company founded in the late 1970s has evolved into a state-of-the-art contract manufacturing facility. Now located in Oakland Industrial Park, Innovated Machine & Tool Co. Inc. leverages both high-tech automation and skilled manual processes to provide quality metal and plastic solutions tailored to customer needs.
As a family-owned business with more than 40 years of experience, Innovated Machine & Tool has become a dominant force in the electrical power distribution sector for data centers. Its success is built on producing dimensionally accurate, high-tech products with a dedicated, driven team behind every project.
Among those leading the team is Marti Bryant, vice president, who works alongside her father, Dwight Bryant, CEO; her brother, Cameron Bryant, president; and her son, Ethan, who serves as a production supervisor. “It’s a unique opportunity to be able to work with my immediate family every day and one that I am very grateful for,” says Marti. Outside of work, she enjoys kayaking, attending outdoor music festivals, and spending time with family — especially dinners with her son and his girlfriend, who are “excellent cooks.”
After taking over in 1984 as CEO and president, Dwight was determined to expand the company’s size and capabilities. “At that time, my dad embraced every new opportunity and loved a good challenge because it allowed him to create a solution and make things happen,” Marti recalls.
In response to rapid technological advancements in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Dwight introduced laser cutting, panel bending and automated powder coating capabilities by 2012. According to Marti, “These improvements dramatically boosted production and opened doors to industries like electrical power distribution for rapidly growing data centers.”
Interestingly, automation didn’t reduce jobs — it increased them. “When we add automation, it increases employment because machine operation still requires skilled oversight,” Marti says. “We support employee development through education and guidance, which helps us deliver quality products on time with exceptional customer service.” One new hire recently noted, “Your equipment is modern, but your work ethic is old school,” a sentiment Marti is proud to share. “Everyone here helps each other and works as a team to meet customer and internal goals.”
Today, Innovated Machine & Tool offers a wide range of services, including sheet metal cutting and bending, machining, welding and finishing. Marti explains, “Over the years, we’ve fully digitized our operations, incorporating automated material handling, laser and punch press equipment to improve speed, safety and accuracy.” Most recently, the company invested in a laser inspection device (CMM) to ensure 100 percent dimensional accuracy, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and quality.
The implementation of automated equipment has improved efficiency and reduced the physical demands on employees. “Instead of manually lifting 50-pound sheets, we now have systems that can load entire pallets into machines, making processes hundreds of times faster in some cases,” Marti says. “Today, we can produce electrical enclosures for virtually any industry.”
Looking to the future, the company is exploring partnerships with Virginia Workforce Development to create apprenticeship programs by 2026. “It’s something we’re really excited about,” Marti says.
Backed by decades of experience and cutting-edge computer numerical control (CNC) robotic sheet metal and automation technology, Innovated Machine & Tool is powered by a skilled team using advanced software, mathematics and science to deliver fast, high-quality results. “We offer the technical capabilities of a large company with the flexibility of a small one. Our goal is to be a seamless, reliable extension of our customers’ manufacturing operations,” Marti notes.
As demand continues to grow, Innovated is preparing to expand. “We need more square footage to keep up with customer needs, which will also improve workflows and allow us to add new equipment,” Marti continues. “It’s an exciting time. The city of Newport News has been incredibly supportive — former Mayor McKinley Price even spoke on our behalf at our groundbreaking event this past March. It was truly an exciting moment.”
When asked what might surprise people about the industry, Marti replies, “Most people don’t realize how much math and science are involved. Our engineers have to understand complex geometry to program the machines effectively.”
With a foundation built on family, innovation and integrity, Innovated Machine & Tool Co. Inc. continues to set the standard in precision manufacturing. As the company looks ahead to future expansion and workforce development initiatives, its commitment to quality, teamwork and technological advancement establishes it as a cornerstone in the industry — one that is set to thrive under the Bryant family’s leadership for generations to come.
TO THE POINT:
Innovated Machine & Tool Co. Inc.
Contact: Marti Bryant, vice president
Address: 250 Picketts Line, Newport News, VA 23603
Phone: 757-887-2181
Fax: 757-887-1822
