- 515 Bourbon St, Georgetown, KY 40324
Georgetown Tool & Manufacturing is a full-service precision shop focused on repeatable quality and reliable delivery. Founded in 1969, we combine decades of shop-floor experience with up-to-date CNC technology and disciplined process control. Our customers trust us for parts that must meet tight tolerances, consistent finishes and dependable lead-times – from prototype to high-volume production runs.
Founded in 1969 by Norman “Ken” Watson, Georgetown Tool and Die was established to support the thriving manufacturing activity of nearby I.B.M. From the beginning, the shop filled a critical need for precision tooling and dependable machining in the region.
As I.B.M. gradually shifted operations away from Kentucky, Ken recognized the need to adapt. He strategically diversified the shop’s capabilities, expanding into grinding, production machining, and eventually CNC machining. This forward-looking approach guided Georgetown Tool through its first era of growth and stability.
By the 1990s, the shop had become a recognized local force in CNC machining, investing in modern equipment and processes that supported high-volume production. Annual output grew significantly, with certain products exceeding one million parts per year, cementing Georgetown Tool’s reputation for consistency and precision.
In 2002, ownership transitioned to local entrepreneur Corky Gillis, whose background spanned multiple industries. While the early years brought challenges, the company regained momentum with the formation of a strong management team in 2007, including Justin VanMeter alongside long-tenured employees Steve Reckmann and Kevin Parsons. Justin would later earn partial ownership in 2009, helping guide the company into its next chapter.
As capabilities expanded, Georgetown Tool became a trusted supplier within the energy and aerospace sectors, specializing in tight-tolerance, high-volume components where precision and reliability were critical.
A major milestone arrived in 2015 with the construction of a new facility. In a demanding year, the shop relocated, installed new equipment, and returned operations to a modernized building near its longtime home. Throughout this transition, Georgetown Tool retained all employees and customers—an enduring testament to the strength of its relationships and culture.
Over the following decade, the company continued investing in its future, installing nine state-of-the-art CNC machines with a strong emphasis on efficiency, automation, and precision. Each addition expanded capability while strengthening the skills of a resilient and highly trained workforce.
In 2025, a defining partnership was formed. Justin VanMeter, longtime employee Steve Reckmann, and trusted industry partner David Pittman joined together to lead Georgetown Tool forward—building on decades of experience, a dedicated staff, and valued customer relationships that continue to define the company today.
Established by Norman “Ken” Watson
Tool and die shop serving I.B.M. manufacturing
Focus on quality, accuracy, and reliability
Significant investment in modern CNC equipment
High-volume production capabilities
Select products exceeding 1M parts annually
Acquired by entrepreneur Corky Gillis
Early challenges followed by renewed direction
New building constructed and operations relocated
Major equipment installations
Retained 100% of employees and customers
Leadership partnership formed
Justin VanMeter, Steve Reckmann, and David Pittman
Continued focus on precision, people, and performance
We believe the best measure of our work comes from the people we work with every day. These testimonials reflect the trust our customers place in GTM.