Since its founding in 1948 in Chicago as Precise Engineering, Innovative Machine has changed ownership several times. Initially focused on designing and constructing various machinery for the printing and coating sectors, including Multi-Station Gravure presses, Jogger-Stackers, Laminators, Calenders, Coating machinery, and Slitting Machinery. During WWII, magnetic tape emerged as a groundbreaking technology with wide-ranging implications for entertainment, computing, and industrial applications. German scientists pivotal in its development congregated in Opelika, Alabama, transforming the town into a hub for advancing this revolutionary technology. Ampex, renowned in the industry, dominated much of this era, with its special tape used extensively in music recording during the late 1950s. Ampex sought partnerships, and Precise Engineering, among a select few, possessed the expertise necessary for manufacturing magnetic film production equipment. This marked the beginning of an innovative cycle, introducing new coating methods, calender designs, slitting machinery, and advancements in precise web handling of plastic film. Following significant success, Precise attracted the attention of Beloit Corporation, the world’s largest manufacturer of paper production machinery, based in Beloit, Wisconsin. In 1965, Beloit acquired Precise, integrating it into its operations. Don Nielsen assumed leadership of the newly formed IMD (Industrial Machinery Division), a profitable subsidiary within Beloit. In 1971, Beloit formed a partnership focused on wastewater treatment, leading to IMD’s relocation from Wisconsin to Birmingham, Alabama. IMD thrived under Beloit’s stewardship until 1986, when long-serving employees Don Nielsen and Ulrich Passavant purchased the division. By 1986, the magnetic tape market was waning, prompting Innovative Machine to explore new opportunities emerging in the advanced battery sector during the late 1980s and early 1990s. This shift positioned the company at the forefront of developing specialized machinery, notably collaborating with Moli Energy in Canada on pioneering Battery Electrode Calenders, distinct from those used in magnetic tape production. Subsequently, Innovative Machine embarked on numerous projects to meet the evolving demands of the Battery Electrode industry. In 1998, Don Nielsen passed the leadership reins to his sons Daniel Nielsen and James Nielsen, though he remained active in sales until his passing in 2021.