A platform investment company with a focus on custom engineered capital equipment, related products & services.
We invest in businesses that manufacture, service, or innovate specialized equipment and critical parts, partnering with leadership teams to drive growth and operational excellence.
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Who We Are
Ridgecrest Ventures is a platform investment company dedicated to building and growing businesses in the custom engineered capital equipment sector. We partner with companies that manufacture specialized equipment, critical parts , and related services that power essential industries
Our team brings decades of technical, operational, financial expertise, helping leadership teams scale their businesses, drive innovation and deliver long-term value. We invest for growth — providing the resources, relationships and strategic support needed to take great companies and products to the next level.
Our Philosophy
Built To Protect Your Legacy
At Ridgecrest Ventures, we take a different approach. Our goal is not to flip businesses, strip them down, or squeeze out short-term gains. We’re here to build — and to honor the hard work that came before us. Many of the businesses we invest in are led by founders or families without a clear succession plan or they might be non-core assets, products, or technologies of a larger enterprise. These are companies built with pride, craftsmanship, and a deep sense of purpose. We believe that legacy deserves to be protected. That’s why we operate with a long-term, buy-and-hold mentality. We invest in people. We invest in teams. And we commit to helping great companies grow while preserving what makes them great.
Building Something Bigger. Together.
At Ridgecrest Ventures, we partner with companies ready to grow. Whether you're a business with leading products, technologies, or services, we bring the resources and experience to help you scale. If you're ready to take the next step, we want to hear from you.
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Investment Pillars
At Ridgecrest Ventures, we invest in businesses that deliver custom engineered capital equipment, provide related technical services, or develop innovative technologies. Our investment philosophy guides every partnership we form.
Business Units
Our companies are built to deliver the equipment, parts, and services that keep industries moving forward.
Tube & Pipe Mill Equipment
Compete turn-key, custom-engineered tube and pipe mill systems built for high-speed, high-quality welded tube production.
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Rollforming Equipment
High-performance complete rollforming systems for custom profile manufacturing across industries.
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Automation Solutions
Integrated automation technologies to enhance production efficiency and system performance.
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Thermal Solutions
Advanced thermal process systems designed for melting, holding, and heating industrial materials
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Ash Handling
Reliable systems engineered for efficient ash collection, transport, and disposal.
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Fluid Drives
Smooth, controlled power transmission systems designed for demanding industrial environments.
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Contract Fabrication and Machining
Full-service fabrication and precision machining for custom equipment and components.
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Construction Services
Turnkey construction, installation, and project management for complex industrial systems.
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Portfolio of Brands
Meet Our Founders
Experienced leaders investing in the future of industrial manufacturing.
Tom Eaton
Co-Managing Partner
Tom Eaton is an experienced executive and entrepreneur with a strong track record of building and leading industrial manufacturing businesses. With deep expertise in operations, M&A, finance and strategic partnerships, Tom brings decades of leadership to Ridgecrest Ventures’ mission of scaling exceptional companies. Prior to Ridgecrest Ventures, Tom was owner and President of Rafter Equipment Corporation. Tom also spent many years with The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, where he held leadership positions in Europe, Africa, and North America.
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Kris Klingmann
Co-Managing Partner
Kris Klingmann is a seasoned executive with extensive experience leading operations, engineering, and growth initiatives in industrial manufacturing. He specializes in building high-performance teams, optimizing production, and driving strategic expansion — bringing critical expertise to Ridgecrest Ventures’ investment and operating approach.
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