What started in a Rochester basement 43 years ago has grown into a multi-million dollar business with operations locally and in New Hampshire.

The tool and die industry has come a long way since William Hockenberger started PGM Corporation in his partner's basement in 1967.

"So the more we can grow, the more opportunities there are for everybody," said Todd Hockenberger, corporate vice president.

PGM now employs 120 workers in Rochester and another 53 in New Hampshire. It makes high precision parts for the medical, military, and aerospace industries.

PGM has stayed in the family. Vice President Todd Hockenberger said strategic planning helped the company stay ahead of a sagging economy.

"We've been able to weather the storm and grow the business too by staying very diverse within our market niche. We do the medical and military and various other industries and by being diverse we've been able to weather the storm better than other small companies out there," Todd explained.

PGM expects even more strategic planning to help keep the company moving forward.

"So if we keep growing, we'll be able to create opportunities both within our business and outside as far as hiring people. Our strategic plan is to grow and focus on key industries that fit our niche," said Hockenberger.

PGM Corporation