Case Study: Dakota Automation
Programming in Motion: How Dakota Automation Keeps Parts Flowing with GibbsCAM
Results at a Glance
- Every machining center runs GibbsCAM for real-time, parallel programming.
- Faster turnaround for daily one-off parts.
- Minimal downtime and fewer bottlenecks in production.
Dakota Automation: Real-Time Programming for Real-World Speed
Dakota Automation designs and builds custom automation systems for the window, door, and furniture industries. Their shop floor is in constant motion — producing unique one-off parts, specialty components, and quick-turn fixtures where speed and precision are equally critical. Traditional programming workflows, with code created in a central office and sent out to machines, started to slow production and cause bottlenecks.
To keep up with demand, Dakota partnered with Midwest CAM Solutions to standardize GibbsCAM across all machining centers. The goal was clear: give every machinist the ability to program in real time, directly at their machine, without interrupting production.
The shift was immediate. Machinists could now make edits while parts were cutting, eliminating delays and removing the back-and-forth between stations. Parallel programming meant setups happened faster, new parts got into production sooner, and machines stayed running instead of waiting on code.
Combined with Midwest CAM’s local, hands-on support and training, Dakota Automation now has a programming workflow that matches their pace — adaptable, consistent, and fast enough to handle whatever comes through the door. It’s not just a software upgrade; it’s a shop-wide productivity boost that keeps every part moving from design to delivery.
Built to Adapt
Every project is unique. Dakota’s team handles both internal builds and outside customer jobs where speed and precision are essential. GibbsCAM allows them to adapt instantly without sacrificing quality.
A Partner Close to Home
For nearly two decades, Midwest CAM Solutions has provided fast answers, in-person help, and ongoing training — making GibbsCAM adoption seamless across the shop.
Programming While the Spindle Spins
Machinists program and edit code right at the machine, even mid-cycle, keeping production flowing without waiting for file transfers or centralized programming.
Results that Keep Moving
Faster turnarounds, fewer delays, and smooth setups have become the norm — all while handling a wide variety of complex, one-off parts.
Final Results
With GibbsCAM running at every machining center and real-time programming in place, Dakota Automation has streamlined production, reduced lead times, and improved efficiency across the shop, all while maintaining the flexibility needed to handle daily one-off parts.
“GibbsCAM makes it easy to program new parts every day, and any issue we’ve had gets resolved quickly. It has made our entire machining process faster and more efficient.” – Brian Denman, Operations Coordinator
