TSMA May Tour of Clyde Machine

Description

TSMA May Meeting and Tour

Clyde Machine

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Speaker:  TBD

Tour:  A tour of Clyde Machines, Inc. in Alexandria offers a look into a long-standing, family-owned manufacturer with deep roots in innovation and engineering. Founded in 1961 by Clyde W. Olson, the company began with precision hydraulic motors and quickly expanded into producing specialized equipment for the aviation industry, including towbars, baggage carts, water trucks, and other aircraft ground support equipment. Over the decades, the business has remained family-owned and operated, continuing to grow while maintaining its reputation for quality and durability in a highly specialized manufacturing niche. During a tour, visitors would experience a full-scale manufacturing environment—from raw materials to finished equipment used at airports around the world. You’d likely see fabrication and welding areas, assembly lines, and paint systems designed to handle large, heavy components. The operation showcases how custom-engineered equipment is built to handle real-world demands, with parts sometimes weighing thousands of pounds. It’s a hands-on look at modern manufacturing in action, highlighting craftsmanship, precision engineering, and the processes that support a global aviation industry—all happening right in central Minnesota.