For over 35 years, Machine Specialties Inc has been dedicated to serving as a leading supplier of machine work, and replacement parts to the wood manufacturing industry in the Southeast United States. Our mission is to enhance the lives and operations of our customers by delivering quality, durable machinery, and replacement parts, coupled with unparalleled customer service within our industry.

OUR VISION

Joe McGee embarked on his career in the industrial and supply sector back in 1981, starting at Talladega Griffin and Supply. After two years, he made the move to the home office, Talladega Machinery Supply in Talladega, Alabama, where alongside Jimmy O’Neal, he played a pivotal role in guiding TMS into the wood products industry. Despite being inexperienced, Joe learned extensively from Jimmy and the maintenance team at the mills. According to Joe, his commitment to transparent and honest dealings with customers has been fundamental to his success.

In 1984, Lindsay Forest Products presented Joe with an opportunity to manage their new facility in Gainesville, Georgia, focusing on manufacturing debarker arms and tips. During this period, Joe persuaded his half-brother, David Fordham, who had been with Eastern Airlines in Atlanta for 16 years, to join him in the industry. Recognizing David's natural conversational skills and strong work ethic, Joe believed he would thrive in this new venture. As Lindsay expanded to Texas, David took on the role of manager there. A few years later, Joe felt it was time to establish his own enterprise, leading to the founding of Machine Specialties in August 1988. David later joined Joe in April 1989, and together, they cultivated the business, supplying new debarkers, chipper parts, hog parts, kiln trucks, sorter slings, knives, and offering repair services.

The year 2010 proved to be the most challenging as David passed away, leaving a significant void in their small yet reliable business. Joe attributes their continued success to the strong relationships they had built with their customers. David's rapport with clients ensured they remained loyal even after his passing, trusting that Joe would uphold the same level of service.

Looking ahead to 2022, Joe contemplated retirement by the year's end or early 2023. However, news of Talladega Machinery and Supply's closure presented an opportunity to sustain what he and David had built. Joe reached out to Susan Miley, a 25-year veteran at TMS, who later joined MSI. Susan's transition brought several former TMS suppliers specializing in MRO, safety, and machining to MSI. As of 2024,

MSI continues to thrive, meeting the demand for quality products with a commitment to traditional customer service values.