105. Making Racecars and Chips: Going all in on machining with TKO Precision Machining

105. Making Racecars and Chips: Going all in on machining with TKO Precision Machining

Author: Paul Van Metre February 25, 2026 Duration: 58:34
Machine Shop Mastery
BusinessEntrepreneurship

What happens when a high-performance race shop decides to jump into aerospace and defense manufacturing — and goes all in?

In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I sit down with Marty Moran of TKO Precision Machining and TKO Motorsports in Reno, Nevada. What started in 2008 as a motorsports-focused shop building custom race cars and high-end components evolved into a serious aerospace and defense manufacturing operation about eight years ago.

Marty shares how the team leveraged deep motorsports and aerospace experience to enter defense manufacturing, earn AS9100 certification, and build a thriving 15-machine shop. But what stands out most isn't just their growth — it's their culture. Communication is constant. Training is intentional. Hiring is rigorous. And everyone is expected to succeed.

We talk about workforce development, cross-training machinists into race crew roles, the realities of AS9100 compliance, building depth through mentorship, and the painful ERP lesson that ultimately led them to ProShop. Marty also shares why aerospace certification doesn't just open doors — it makes you a better shop.

If you're trying to build a resilient, team-driven shop in today's manufacturing environment, this conversation is packed with insight.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

  • (0:00) Introducing Marty Moran and the origins of TKO Motorsports
  • (2:18) How the business evolved from a race shop into contract machining
  • (4:02) Launching TKO Precision Machining as a focused aerospace operation
  • (6:05) Current shop size, equipment mix, and aerospace capabilities
  • (9:40) How the motorsports division operates alongside contract machining
  • (14:35) Integrating machinists into race team operations
  • (19:10) Breaking into aerospace and defense manufacturing
  • (22:40) Starting with prototype work to build long-term customers
  • (25:05) Navigating ITAR and NIST 800-171 compliance
  • (29:20) Revenue diversification between motorsports and defense work
  • (32:05) Building culture through cross-training and accountability
  • (36:10) Hiring philosophy and what TKO looks for in new employees
  • (41:20) Peer-driven hiring process and extended evaluation periods
  • (45:00) Developing operators into machinists through internal training
  • (48:55) Measuring spindle utilization and operational efficiency
  • (52:05) Communication rhythm and leadership accessibility
  • (54:30) Lessons learned from ERP implementation and systems discipline
  • (56:20) Advice for smaller shops on training, retention, and culture
  • (58:00) Final reflections on teamwork and what's next for TKO

Resources & People Mentioned

Connect with Marty Moran

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Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK


Paul Van Metre hosts Machine Shop Mastery, a conversation grounded in the real-world challenges and triumphs of running a precision manufacturing business. This isn't about abstract theory; it's a deep dive into the shop floor, focusing on the practical strategies that turn a technical skill into a sustainable and growing enterprise. Each episode pulls back the curtain on the operational, financial, and personal leadership aspects that define a successful shop, moving beyond the blueprints to talk about building a resilient business. You'll hear candid discussions about navigating client relationships, managing cash flow, investing in the right equipment, and developing a team that can execute complex work. The podcast aims to underscore the critical role these businesses play as community anchors and economic engines, often overlooked in broader industry talks. For current shop owners, the insights offer a path to refine their operations and boost profitability. For aspiring entrepreneurs with a passion for machining, these conversations provide a clear-eyed look at what it truly takes to launch and scale. Tune in for straightforward advice and stories that connect the craft of machining with the art of building a lasting legacy.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

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