Owner Wade Spital
I've been designing and building things for as long as I can remember.
As a kid I was always taking something apart and trying to learn how it worked.
I got pretty good at fixing things. In the mid 1980s I had an idea for an invention. I knew I couldn't
build it with my usual tools so I went back to school and got certified in
Machine Tool Technology. I started out using manual machine tools and then progressed to CNC
equipment.
A manual machining skill-set forms an excellent basis for programming and running CNC machines.
Since 1986 I've worked as a professional machinist, industrial designer and mechanic. Over the course of my career I've machined tens of thousands of parts and have designed and built hundreds of tools fixtures, machines, models and prototypes. Many of my machines are still in active use today. One of my air-powered designs has been in service since 2007 and has successfully processed 30 million parts.
I'm probably at my happiest when I have something I'm trying to build, figure out or fix. I like the challenge of solving difficult or unusual problems and enjoy getting into the details of a project. I also admire the creative spirit that propels new ventures and projects.
I received my post high school education at Sonoma State University. I obtained my certification in Machine Tool Technology from the Santa Rosa Junior College. I've completed coursework in metallurgy, CAD drafting, welding, conventional and CNC programming and machining. I've built a number patented prototypes and have authored and contributed to several published patents.
After years of experience working in the fields of industrial tooling, machine design and product development, I started Avalon Precision in 1998.