About Wal-Tek Industries

The Wal-Tek Industries Story


Wal-Tek Industries, Inc. was established in 1997 by Joseph Walach, a Polish refugee who emigrated to the United States in the 1980s. 

Joseph began his journey in Detroit before moving to Phoenix.  After being fired from a machine shop, he started Wal-Tek Industries with a single CNC mill. The company has since grown to more than 40 people and over 30 CNC machines.

In 2019, Brandon Brooks stepped in as Wal-Tek’s General Manager. A long-time business associate of Joseph’s, Brandon was motivated by the opportunity to build on Joseph’s legacy.

Once Brandon and Joseph formed their partnership, the company decided to launch the Fabrication Division, with an emphasis on tube laser processing and precision sheet metal fabrication. 

Under our leadership team, Wal-Tek is committed to building a positive company culture that empowers each team member to reach their full potential and accomplish their personal and professional goals. 

Our collaborative, team-centered approach enables us to develop unparalleled workplace relationships and create long term business partnerships with our clients and vendors, thus creating the opportunity for us to deliver the highest quality custom manufactured components on the market.


Brandon Brooks, President & CEO

Brandon partnered with Joseph Walach, who was his long-time mentor in 2020. He’s committed to creating a culture that inspires and supports the vision for Wal-Tek, challenges the process, empowers team members to act, and helps everyone win.

Prior to leading Wal-Tek, Brandon was Owner & Operator of 5th Generation Farms, Vice President of Sales for an independent manufacturers’ representative agency, and serves as Council Member for Salt River Project. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Northern Arizona University and acquired a minor in Marketing.

Robert Cooney, Engineering and Operations Manager – Fabrication Division

With 26 years of experience in metals design and manufacturing and OEM Design for Manufacturability, Robert brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Wal-Tek. Robert oversees all facility operations in our fabrication division. He loves being part of a talented team that creates tangible products.

Robert holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Utah. He is certified in Leadership, CAD Software, CAM Software, Inspection, Supply Chain Management, and Safety Training.

Michael Pellegrim, Engineering and Operations Manager – Machining Division

Mike has over 35 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process design, and industry tech support. He specializes in CNC programming, manufacturing fixture design, virtual solid part modeling, CAD/CAM virtual software, and root cause analysis focused team-building.

Mike is passionate about quality-first expectations, constant process improvement, better lean manufacturing practices, and employee mentoring to support these metrics. Through community work and service, Mike lives out these practices and embodies servant leadership in his personal life as well as in his professional career.

Chuck Hobbs, Senior Sales Engineer

With over 25 years of experience in manufacturing, Chuck is our foremost expert when it comes to assisting our clients with design for manufacturability. His career began on the shop floor and as his skills grew, so did his expertise in understanding what drives the cost of parts. His professionalism and fun personality led him into sales and estimating.

Chuck prides himself at having a comprehensive understanding of the customers he serves and the product they need manufactured. Over the years he has developed many strong relationships in the industry and is highly respected as “One of the best in the business!”

Bryce Eddy, Business Development

Customers trust Bryce to deliver quality parts. His previous experience in purchasing and supply chain management for a large Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) helps him proactively anticipate customer needs. Bryce is always receptive to feedback and enjoys helping customers reach their goals.

Wendy Kaplan, Customer Service

Having spent 27 years in manufacturing, Wendy is well versed in various customer service roles, including front office, expediting, planning, purchasing, and shipping. Wendy helps Wal-Tek’s customers receive and process purchase orders and shipments. She most enjoys working with customers to build lasting relationships.

Joseph Walach, Founder

Joseph founded Wal-Tek in 1997 and built the company from a single CNC mill to 28 CNC machines. He emigrated to the United States as a Polish refugee and worked as a mechanic in Detroit before moving to Arizona and working as a machinist. After being fired from his employer and moonlighting for another machine shop for many years, he decided it was time to pursue the American dream and start his own business.

Today, Joseph plays an advisory role at Wal-Tek Industries. He enjoys interacting with customers and providing them with high-quality parts at a fair price. He’s proud of the incredible team he has built over the years and continues to promote a positive work environment.