Dakota Foundry’s five-decade story is defined by resilience, craftsmanship, and ingenuity. Founded in 1977 and today operating as part of Anderson Foundries, the Webster, South Dakota-based manufacturer has built a reputation for its ductile and gray iron castings while continually evolving to meet changing market demands.
What stands out about Dakota Foundry is its commitment to 100% American-made production, a vertically integrated model that ensures precision from pattern to pour, and a leadership philosophy grounded in innovation and pride in the skilled trades. As an Honoree in the Enduring Businesses category of the 2025 CO—100 Awards, this company has shown what it means not just to last, but to thrive.
Honoring an American-made legacy while incorporating modern techniques
Dakota Foundry has built its reputation on durability, consistency, and uncompromising quality — traits that have allowed it to serve industries ranging from agriculture and construction to fitness and heavy machinery. Thanks to its partnership with Spartan Pattern, the foundry’s customers have access to engineering, patternmaking, casting, and machining under one roof.
The company blends heritage techniques with modern capability in everything it does, from traditional cupola melting to advanced prototyping tools like 3D printing and MAGMA simulation software. This approach allows Dakota Foundry to deliver short-run and custom castings at speeds few competitors can match, especially those overseas.
“Our steadfast commitment to quality craftsmanship, American-made products, and customer service has built lasting relationships with clients across industries,” said Dakota Foundry Owner Kory Anderson.
Dakota Foundry’s agility has served as an advantage in moments of challenge. When the 2020 pandemic led to a sharp decline in traditional casting orders, the company launched the Iron Warrior fitness equipment line, which “kept our skilled employees fully employed, a mission that was extremely important to us,” said Anderson.
Iron Warrior now stands as a permanent part of the business and a true testament to how adaptability fuels long-term sustainability.
Our steadfast commitment to quality craftsmanship, American-made products, and customer service has built lasting relationships with clients across industries.Kory Anderson, Owner, Dakota Foundry
Showcasing what’s possible ‘when passion meets craftsmanship’
When Anderson purchased the foundry in 2014, he did so to keep it American-owned and positioned for growth. At the same time, he undertook a restoration project that would shape the company’s modern identity: rebuilding the 150 Case Road Locomotive, the largest operating steam traction engine in the world.
The undertaking required more than 250 unique iron castings, each produced in-house by Dakota Foundry’s team.
The project earned a Guinness World Record in 2022 and elevated Dakota Foundry as a sought-after partner for high-stakes restoration and specialty casting projects. It also became a point of community pride in Webster, where the foundry is one of the anchors of local industry.
“This project wasn’t just about engineering,” Anderson told CO—. “It was about inspiring pride in American manufacturing and showing our small rural town … what’s possible when passion meets craftsmanship.”
This same mindset drives the company’s ongoing investments in workforce development. Dakota Foundry funds the Iron Warrior Academy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that trains future welders, machinists, and foundry workers.
“By growing both our infrastructure and our workforce pipeline, we’re ensuring Dakota Foundry can scale without compromising quality or delivery,” explained Anderson. “Without people interested in the skilled trades, the mission for 100% American-made products would not remain possible.”
Creating an adaptable company that’s built to last
For Dakota Foundry, its decades-long success is the intentional product of continual reinvestment, strategic evolution, and a culture that values both tradition and innovation. The company’s upgrade cycle includes new equipment, improved process controls, and tools that reduce defects and accelerate production.
Internally, Dakota Foundry measures longevity through outcomes that matter: stable employment, customer loyalty, new market opportunities, and high-quality output.
“Adaptability isn’t a buzzword here,” said Anderson. “It’s a core part of how we survive and thrive.”
Dakota Foundry also celebrates its people along the way. Annual barbecues, summer golf outings, and recognition for achievements like the American Foundry Society’s 2025 Best Prototype Award reinforce a strong team culture built on pride and craftsmanship.
After nearly 50 years, Dakota Foundry has proven that American manufacturing can endure and evolve through any landscape. Its blend of craftsmanship, innovation, and commitment to the skilled trades ensures the company is not only built to last but positioned to lead the next generation of domestic production.
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