About Big Sky Engineering
About Big Sky Engineering
Since 1998, Big Sky Engineering has been a leader in turnkey automation, transforming the industry with innovative, cost-effective solutions that surpass industry standards. Based in Verona, Wisconsin, we specialize in custom automation designed for efficiency and lean manufacturing, empowering businesses across diverse sectors to optimize operations and drive success.
Growing with the Industry
- Located in the vibrant heart of Verona, Wisconsin
- 67,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility
- Equipped with cutting-edge technology and expertise.
- Built for the future with state-of-the-art capabilities
- Powered by advanced technology and a team of skilled professionals
Notable Achievements
- Award-Winning Excellence: Nominated for the Fanuc Integrator of the Year award, showcasing innovation and leadership in automation.
- Industry Specialization: Expertise in packaging, assembly, inspection systems, closure lining, laser marking, pressure testing and custom automation.
- Continuous Innovation: Ongoing research and development to stay ahead of industry trends.
Joel Cunningham
Owner & President
In 1986, Joel embarked on his journey post-high school in the picturesque landscapes of Montana. Graduating with the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, his roots in Madison, Wisconsin, led him to the next chapter – a career at Plastic Ingenuity (PI) in Cross Plains. Under the guidance of Joe Kuehn, the owner of PI and Joel’s mentor, he discovered his passion for the technical intricacies of Machining Trades.
His career trajectory took a turn in 1990 when he joined Seiders Manufacturing in Verona, Wisconsin. A skilled machinist, Joel delved into the world of Industrial Machine design and build projects, collaborating closely with visionaries like Mark Strasser and Kurt Garvens. However, the call of Aerospace beckoned, leading Joel to relocate to the Seattle area in 1994. At Macnab MFG in Kent, Washington, he honed his skills in working with exotic metals and fabricating components for iconic planes like the Boeing 777.
In 1996, Joel returned to his roots in the Madison area, reuniting with Mark Strasser at Placon. The duo navigated the challenges of creating a product line for the thermoform packaging industry.
By early 1998, they found themselves at a crossroads when their assignment at Placon concluded. Unfazed by the prospect of unemployment, Mark and Joel seized an opportunity during a lunch meeting – the birth of Big Sky Engineering, a venture into Industrial Automation.
Mark Strasser
V.P
Mark Strasser embarked on his career in design after graduating from Hononegah Community High School in 1983. His journey began at RD System, where he developed his design skills and was introduced to the transformative world of automation. Eager to expand his expertise, Mark joined Seiders Manufacturing in Verona, WI. It was at Seiders where his passion for automation truly flourished and where he first connected with future collaborators Joel Cunningham and Kurt Garvens.
With a drive for growth and new challenges, Mark transitioned to Placon. At Placon, he and Joel tackled the complexities of developing a product line for the thermoform packaging industry. By early 1998, as their assignment at Placon came to a close, Mark and Joel faced a pivotal decision. Unfazed by uncertainty, they turned a lunchtime discussion into a bold entrepreneurial venture, founding Big Sky Engineering to specialize in industrial automation.
Their first project, for the Clack Corporation in Windsor, WI, epitomized their resourcefulness and determination. The inaugural machine, built in Joel’s garage, sold for $16,275 and became Project #500—a symbol of their vision and persistence.
Our Commitment To Innovation
Precision and Innovation
we integrate leading-edge components and advanced automation technology into every solution we deliver.
Custom Solutions
We specialize in designing and building automation systems tailored to your exact operational needs.
Dedicated Partnership
We provide ongoing support and troubleshooting backed by decades of custom automation expertise!
