From Student Hobbyists to Premier Engineering and Manufacturing Company
Engineering Origins, Rolla, MO
Nicholas Johnson and Brendan Crotty, mechanical engineering students at Missouri S&T, have co-founded Engineering Origins, a thriving startup that has transformed their passion for engineering and manufacturing into reality. Alongside their roles as co-founders, Johnson and Crotty also work at Missouri S&T’s Makerspace, with Crotty serving as CEO and Johnson as COO. Engineering Origins is an independent engineering and manufacturing company, offering a diverse range of design and manufacturing services.
Established in March 2023, Engineering Origins began to gain traction in May of the same year. What started as hobby projects for Johnson and Crotty is now growing into a promising enterprise. Johnson has always harbored a long-term vision for the company, recognizing the importance of laying a solid foundation early on. This motivated them to embark on their entrepreneurial journey while still in school.
One aspect that sets Engineering Origins apart from competitors is their ability to deliver comprehensive and specialized services. In an industry where businesses often hire for specific skill sets, Johnson and Crotty excel by offering full manufacturing design packages. They engage in detailed discussions with customers, listening to their needs and providing valuable suggestions for improvement. Engineering Origins has swiftly gained a reputation for excellence, as they offer a complete range of manufacturing and prototyping services that are rare to find in the region.
Johnson and Crotty have set their sights on achieving even greater success by investing in larger and more advanced machinery. They understand that acquiring the right equipment is crucial for scaling their operations and expanding into industrial metal manufacturing. Their ultimate goal is to provide more extensive manufacturing services. Alongside their immediate objectives, Crotty and Johnson are actively seeking a long-term location for their business after graduation. Securing a permanent base will enable them to establish stability and expand operations.
Reflecting on their unfolding journey, Crotty and Johnson emphasize the importance of time, dedication, and perseverance for aspiring small business owners. They acknowledge that starting a business requires more hours than anticipated but recognize that the rewards are worth the effort. Engineering Origins continues to thrive as Nick Johnson and Brendan Crotty lead the company to continued growth. With Johnson and Crotty at the helm, the future holds tremendous potential for Engineering Origins.
