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For nearly five decades, Plant Machine Works, LLC has stood as a pillar of strength, service and innovation in Louisiana’s industrial landscape. What began as one man’s vision has evolved into a multi-generational story of resilience, craftsmanship and leadership that is still being written today.
When Claude Barber purchased PMW in 1977, his goal was to deliver exceptional workmanship with unwavering integrity. Through economic shifts and a changing industrial market, the company’s commitment to service, quality, honesty and integrity became more than a motto—it became a reputation.
From its earliest days, Plant Machine Works specialized in repairing rotating equipment and providing precision machining services to the industrial sector. Today that foundation continues to support a thriving, family-owned and operated machine shop serving customers across the state and beyond.
In 2006, leadership transitioned to Claude’s son, Tommy Barber, who grew the organization in size, scope and technological capacity. His steady leadership over the past two decades elevated the company to new heights and reinforced the durability of the Barber name in the industrial community.
Faced with significant challenges, including the Great Flood of 2016 and the global pandemic of 2019, the brand never wavered. Instead, it adapted, reinvested and strengthened its position in the marketplace.
The flood damaged the office and claimed company vehicles. Undaunted, they gutted and renovated the office—unchanged since 1977—making it more modern, functional and comfortable.
The company focuses on personnel, advanced machining technology, facility expansion and the integration of 3D scanning and measuring technology.
Along the journey, Tommy’s three kids began working at the company, learning every aspect of the business. Today, third-generation President Travis McGraw, Vice President of Administration Morgan Sansone and Chief Financial Officer Tommy Carlton continue that upward trajectory. With a focus on personnel, advanced machining technology, facility expansion and the integration of 3D scanning and measuring technology, the company is pushing into the future while honoring its past.
Plant Machine Works now employs more than 80 skilled professionals across over 75,000 square feet of climate-controlled workspace—a distinction that keeps the workforce safer and more productive year-round.
The workforce, with an average age of 42, signals a smart approach to recruitment in an industry where experienced manpower is increasingly rare and crucial to maintain. McGraw explains to young recruits the financial value of committing to a trade early: “Earn your stripes, buy in to the vision; from there it’s all about opportunity.”
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Top executives: Tommy Barber, Owner; Travis McGraw, President; Morgan Sansone, VP of Administration; Tommy Carlton, Chief Financial Officer; Bobby Williams, VP of Operations
Phone: 225.775.7163
Address: 4633 Blount Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70807
Website: plantmachineworks.com
The management team has decades of tenure. Vice President of Operations Bobby Williams has been with the organization since 1982. Williams started as a welder but took over operations in 1997, a position he has held for 30 years now.
A combination of advanced technology, workforce investment and uncompromising service has positioned Plant Machine Works for the future. What Claude Barber built in 1977 is now something larger than any single generation—a legacy that grows stronger each time it is handed forward.
