Metalcraft Embraces a New Chapter in the ISU Research Park
For more than 75 years, Metalcraft has been a trusted name in asset identification. The company’s longstanding presence in Mason City, Iowa, has served as the headquarters for its diverse operations—ranging from metal nameplates and barcode labels to sophisticated RFID tags and software solutions. But despite its established legacy, Metalcraft is looking toward the future. That’s why the company opened a satellite office at the Iowa State University Research Park (ISURP) in Ames.
The decision to expand wasn’t just about geography—it was about joining an innovation ecosystem. Nestled among startups, research centers, and some of the biggest names in agriculture, technology, and biotech, Metalcraft saw an opportunity to infuse its operations with fresh energy and access critical resources that only a university-connected environment can provide.
A Strategic Move Rooted in Resilience
When COVID-19 disrupted supply chains in 2020, Metalcraft faced a serious challenge: sourcing inlays, a critical component in RFID tags. Rather than rely on an unstable global supply chain, the company decided to bring the production of RFID inlays in-house. It was this decision that sparked the creation of a second location.
“We weren’t just looking to expand—we needed redundancy, innovation, and a deeper talent pool,” says Kyle Bermel, CEO of Metalcraft. “Ames checked every box.”
With the new Ames facility, the company created a geographically separate site for disaster preparedness, R&D, and full-scale manufacturing of RFID inlays. The site has also grown to house laser capabilities, support for government contracts like UID tagging, and backup production lines for key products.
Collaborative Advantage
The Research Park offers more than just office space. Metalcraft has found value in being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking business community—one that’s tied closely to Iowa State University.
“Being here puts us in close proximity to programs like CIRAS, with whom we’ve partnered for years,” says Bermel. “We’ve worked together on everything from safety procedures to pandemic response.”
The company’s relationship with ISU goes back decades, including a joint patent developed in 2004 for on-metal RFID tagging. Today, that collaboration continues, with Metalcraft currently participating in ISU engineering capstone projects focused on resource recovery and material science.
An Eye Toward the Future
Metalcraft isn’t done growing. In fact, the Ames location continues to add capabilities and equipment. With 100% employee ownership and a workforce of 125 team members, the company is reinvesting in its infrastructure and positioning itself for long-term success.
“Space is limited at our Mason City headquarters, and we want to keep that footprint efficient,” says Bermel. “Ames gives us the room and the resources to grow strategically.”
As supply chains shift, automation accelerates, and customer expectations evolve, Metalcraft sees its presence in the ISU Research Park as more than a smart move—it’s a defining part of the company’s future.