Two CTMA members receive funding to expand advanced manufacturing and defence capabilities
The Honourable Evan Solomon addresses attendees during the funding announcement, held at XL Tool Inc., on July 23, highlighting the Government of Canada's investment in strengthening advanced manufacturing, defence capabilities, and resilient domestic supply chains. CTMA photo The Canadian Tooling & Machining Association (CTMA) is pleased to congratulate two member companies, XL Tool Inc. and Eclipse Automation, on receiving funding through the Government of Canada's Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) and Regional Defence Investment Initiative (RDII). The investments will help both companies strengthen Canada's advanced manufacturing sector while expanding capabilities to support emerging opportunities in the defence and
Rapid Gear celebrates 50 years of excellence in custom gear manufacturing
Rapid Gear, located in Kitchener, Ont., recently celebrated its 50th Anniversary with a company picnic. Rapid Gear photos The CTMA extends congratulations to Rapid Gear of Kitchener, Ont., on the remarkable milestone of celebrating 50 years in business. Founded in 1976, Rapid Gear has grown from humble beginnings—operating with just a few machines in a shared facility—to become one of Canada's premier custom gear manufacturers. Today, the company operates from more than 40,000 square feet of advanced manufacturing space equipped with modern CNC and conventional gear-specific machinery, serving customers across North America and around the globe. Over
AarKel Tooling Technologies acquires Superior Tool and Mold, expanding Windsor-Essex manufacturing presence
AarKel Tooling Technologies has announced the acquisition of the shares of Superior Tool and Mold, located in Oldcastle, Ont. The acquisition marks a significant milestone in AarKel’s continued growth strategy and reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to strengthening its capabilities and expanding its presence within Canada’s tooling industry. Founded nearly 33 years ago, Superior Tool and Mold has earned a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and exceptional customer service. Through this acquisition, more than 80 highly skilled associates will join the AarKel organization, bringing valuable expertise and experience that will further enhance the company’s capabilities. “This acquisition represents an
CTMA members showcase innovation at MMTS 2026
The Canadian Tooling & Machining Association (CTMA) was proud to participate in MMTS 2026, held May 11–12 at the Palais des congrès de Montréal, joining thousands of manufacturing professionals, technology leaders, and innovators from across Canada for Quebec’s largest manufacturing technology event. Over the course of the two-day show, attendees experienced cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, live equipment demonstrations, educational sessions, networking opportunities, and discussions focused on the future of advanced manufacturing. This year’s event placed a strong emphasis on smart manufacturing, AI adoption, automation, aerospace and defence, additive manufacturing, productivity, and digital transformation across the manufacturing sector. Day 1 focused
AV Gauge & Automation named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies
AV Gauge & Automation achieved Platinum Club status with the Canada’s Best Managed Companies program by retaining its Best Managed designation for seven consecutive years or more. submitted photo CTMA member company, AV Gauge & Automation, has achieved Platinum Club status with the Canada’s Best Managed Companies program by retaining its Best Managed designation for seven consecutive years or more. Celebrating over 30 years, Canada’s Best Managed Companies program awards excellence in private Canadian-owned companies with revenues of $50 million or greater. To attain the designation, companies are evaluated on their leadership in the areas of strategy,
Built to Last: KBC TUM Series milling machines now include 3-year warranty
KBC Tools & Machinery marks 60 years of service with expanded three-year warranty coverage on its flagship TUM series milling machines. For 60 years, KBC Tools & Machinery has focused on delivering durable, practical equipment to the North American metalworking industry. In recognition of this milestone, KBC is introducing an industry-leading three-year parts replacement warranty on all KBC TUM Series milling machines, reinforcing a long-standing commitment to reliability, value, and long-term performance. KBC milling machines have earned trust through decades of real-world use. Hundreds of KBC mills remain in operation today, with machines still running accurately and reliably after 20,