Thomas Dauterman started Thomas Welding & Machine, Inc. in Chico, California, in 1970. The Sacramento Valley is an agricultural region located in the Central Valley of California and is known for its fruits and vegetables.
With a modest start in a small rented store, the farm equipment fabrication and repair business grew and soon outgrew its space. In 1974, the property was acquired, and the first structure was built at its current site.
Thomas Welding has grown its facilities and product line over the years to keep up with the demands of agriculture. Thomas Hydraulics & Hardware was established in 1976 to better serve local farmers’ needs. In addition to portable belt conveyor systems, Thomas has created and produced one of the most efficient and innovative nut harvesting methods in the business.