47. Small Headcount - High Discipline: Building Success with Garrett from Elemental Design + Machinery

Most machine shop startups are defined by hustle, long hours, and organized chaos. But when Garrett Wolfford founded Elemental Design + Machinery in January 2024, he had a different blueprint: "Small headcount, high discipline".

While many owners wait years to professionalize their operations, Garrett built the foundation of a major aerospace facility for a team of just three people. He didn't wait to "grow into" systems; he implemented AS9100 certification, ITAR registration, and ProShop ERP almost immediately.

The goal was audacious: to transition from general manufacturing to critical "hard parts" for the aerospace and defense sectors. After a site visit to a major rocket manufacturing facility ignited a fire in the team, they worked backward from the customer's vendor checklist, acquiring the necessary CMM technology, Model-Based Definition (MBD) capabilities, and digital infrastructure to qualify.

The strategy paid off. In less than two years, Elemental went from an empty floor to an approved supplier for a major rocket company, securing their first six-figure purchase order shortly after certification.

This episode is a case study on why "too small" is a myth. It explores how digital manufacturing systems, rigid quality planning, and a refusal to compromise on discipline allow a small shop to compete directly with industry giants.

Garrett Wolfford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-wolfford-567714311/

Elemental Design + Machinery: https://elementaldesignandmachinery.com/about/

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