MT Magazine November/December 2025

THE INDUSTRY OUTLOOK ISSUE

IMTS+

30

How Co-Line and Hexagon Are Redefining American Manufacturing BY TRAVIS EGAN CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER

“Our people set us apart,” says Eric Brand, president of Co-Line Manufacturing. “Our culture is unique. We work hard, we play hard, and we always try to be different – whether it’s free-lunch Friday or

because of its commitment to teamwork, values, and technology – showing that innovation isn’t reserved for big cities or billion dollar corporations. Where People and Technology Meet Co-Line’s sense of community runs deep. In 2007, when a tornado tore through the area, neighbors, employees, and customers came together to help rebuild. The company didn’t lose a single client. “This is just worldly sticks and stones,” Dale Brand said at the time. “We will rebuild and be fine.” Co-Line’s success has always started with its people. That’s immediately apparent when you walk through Co-Line’s doors. You don’t just see machines. You see people who take pride in every part they make. Here, digital tools, automation, and precision equipment don’t replace craftsmanship; they amplify it, helping every team member work smarter, faster, and with greater confidence. You’ll see it all in Episode 2 of the IMTS+ series “The Architect,” brought to you by Hexagon. Co-Line’s partnership with Hexagon started years ago with precision measurement tools. Since then, it’s evolved into a full digital manufacturing ecosystem. Today, they use Hexagon’s Radan – CAD/CAM software encompassing nesting, scheduling, and sheet-metal cutting for complex parts – and Hexagon’s Absolute Arm for real-time 3D scanning and inspection. These tools allow the team to simulate, test, and refine designs virtually before a single part hits the floor. “They’re a perfect example of how digital transformation doesn’t have to mean disruption,” says Doug Wood, Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence lead. “It’s about connecting the data – linking design, production, and inspection – so manufacturers can make better decisions faster.”

a Hot Rod parade. We have a phenomenal team with diverse talent and skills. Then add the latest technology from partners like Hexagon, and stand back! It’s amazing what our team can accomplish.”

I came to Lynnville, Iowa – a town of 400 – and saw firsthand how that philosophy has built Co-Line Manufacturing into one of America’s remarkable manufacturers. Founded in 1979 by Dale and Tana Brand, Co-Line began as a small welding shop specializing in farm equipment repair. Today, it has grown into a 250-person operation with advanced manufacturing technology. The company manufactures precision components for its own Sure Latch product line and for many global brands, including Goalsetter basketball systems. For more than four decades, Co-Line has thrived