By Joshua Barnhart
In a world where businesses often come and go with the changing tides, Exline Inc. stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and grit. Founded in 1872 by R.W. Exline, a blacksmith who migrated from Ohio to Kansas, the company has evolved from a small-town blacksmith shop to a powerhouse in the natural gas and industrial repair industries. Now in its sixth generation of family leadership, Exline has weathered wars, natural disasters, and economic shifts to mark its 153rd year in 2025.
The Blacksmith’s Legacy
R.W. Exline’s story began in Abilene, Kansas, where he used his blacksmithing skills to support the agricultural and railroad industries. “He was a pretty solid blacksmith,” notes current President Will Exline. However, R.W. also faced personal challenges. “He gambled and spent time in saloons. Eventually, his wife kicked him out, and that’s when my great-great-grandfather, William George Exline, took over the business—at just 17 years old.”
William’s ingenuity and resourcefulness became the cornerstone of Exline’s success. He developed new manufacturing methods, including innovative tools for sharpening discs and pioneering techniques for repairing artillery before World War I. “He was even called upon by the U.S. military to sleeve artillery barrels to prevent slippage—a critical innovation at the time,” Will explains.
Rebuilding and Relocating
In 1943, Exline Diesel Engine Works, then located in Kipp, Kansas, was devastated by a tornado that destroyed both the shop and much of the town. The family decided to relocate to Salina, Kansas—a move that proved pivotal for the company’s growth. By the 1940s, Exline had expanded its focus to the burgeoning oil and gas industry, which became a key driver of the business.
The following decades brought more transformation. Will’s great-grandfather joined the business in the 1930s, overseeing expansions in the 1960s that included the construction of new facilities and the acquisition of advanced machinery. “Some of the machines still in use today date back to his time,” Will adds.
The Next Generations: Innovation and Challenges
The late 1950s marked the entry of Bob Exline, who introduced cutting-edge safety and alarm systems for large engines. These innovations ensured equipment shutdowns before catastrophic failures, solidifying Exline’s reputation for reliability.
Will’s grandfather, Bob Exline, preferred hands-on work over the office. “He traveled all over the world—places like the Middle East, the Philippines, and Hawaii—conducting machining and repair projects,” Will shares.
Jerry and Doug Exline joined the family business in the 1960s, further strengthening its foundation.
By 1994, Will’s father, Rob Exline, had taken over ownership during a challenging period for the company. “The business was struggling, and we had to sell the family farm to stay afloat,” Will recalls. However, Rob’s strategic focus on mechanical services—offering on-site disassembly, repair, and reassembly—paved the way for future growth.
A Modern Powerhouse
Will Exline joined the company in 2018, initially working in sales before becoming Director of Operations in 2021. By November 2023, he had taken on the role of President. Under his leadership, Exline has seen remarkable growth. “We were hit hard by COVID-19, with a 30% decrease in sales between 2019 and 2021. But since then, we’ve been growing exponentially. 2024 was the largest revenue year in our history, up 25% from the previous record,” he says.
Today, Exline operates five distinct business units: Mechanical Services, Field Machining, Ignition and Automation (I&A), Repair and Manufacturing (R&M), and Parts Services. The company employs 130 people and holds a 10% market share across the United States, with natural gas accounting for 75–80% of its business. Other industrial clients outside of oil and gas include industry giants like Great Plains, AGCO, and Sunflower.
“We’re not just growing; we’re thriving,” Will says. “Our legacy is built on innovation, resilience, and a commitment to excellence, and I’m proud to carry that forward into the next chapter of Exline’s history.”
As Exline celebrates 153 years in business, it’s clear that the company’s foundation—a mix of hard work, ingenuity, and adaptability—continues to forge a path of success.
