Tim & Martha Holmberg

Dakota Equipment Manufacturing Inc. also referred to as “DEMI Equipment”, was established in June 2012 by Tim and Martha Holmberg. A small family-owned business with a passion for manufacturing heavy equipment. Tim and Martha, formally from Glendale, Arizona, were originally looking to broaden their business into the northern territory. DEMI Equipment was then established in South Dakota to better serve the Aggregate and Mining Industries in the entire United States, Canada, and international markets.

I got the chance to sit down with both Tim and Martha at their office in Aberdeen, South Dakota. During our visit, Tim shared touching stories about the growth and success of DEMI Equipment, and how he continues to carry out the legacy of his former family business, Dakota Fabricating. One of Tim’s fondest memories of his entrepreneurial career is from when his father, Harold, and he started their journey at Dakota Fabricating together. From skipping class in high school so he could accompany his father on sales pitches to learning the operations and equipment of the Mining and Aggregate industry. A pivotal moment came when a contractor took a chance on Tim and his father, laying the groundwork for their future endeavors across the United States of America and abroad. It was during these early experiences that Tim learned the importance of passion and perseverance; traits that would later define DEMI Equipment's success.

 Tim's transition from a high school student to the Vice-President of Dakota Fabricating, and then later the President and CEO of Dakota Equipment Manufacturing Inc., was marked by unwavering dedication and the support of his wife, Martha. Together, they transformed their fledgling enterprise into a reputable company, even competing against larger rivals. Tim and Martha’s company, DEMI Equipment, remains steadfast in upholding the core values of hard work, integrity, and innovation. These values have earned praise from customers and employees alike.

Modern tools like LinkedIn and social media have allowed Tim to expand his network and secure fortuitous opportunities. It was through LinkedIn that he connected with Todd Hoffman and Dave Turin of the Discovery Channel’s Gold Rush show. DEMI Equipment’s machine along with their patented products, was aired in Seasons 7 and 8 of the show. DEMI Equipment's commitment to innovation is evident in its notable contributions to enhancing production efficiency and ensuring worker satisfaction and safety. From the Grizzly Spring Fingers to the Caged Nut System, each innovation reflects the company's dedication to excellence.   

Dakota Fabricating, the precursor to DEMI Equipment, experienced remarkable growth under Tim's leadership, expanding from a modest operation with only three employees to a thriving enterprise with seventy employees, about $30 million in projected sales revenue, and a global presence. Tim and Martha's decision to establish their own business highlights their unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence, setting the stage for DEMI Equipment's continued success.