About Us
Three Generations of Cutting Experience
Family owned and operated for three generations, North Eastern Water Jet is a highly regarded provider of water jet cutting and laser cutting services. We have been leading the way in the field of water jet cutting since the technology took off in the early 1990s. As an industry leading authority in water jet cutting and laser cutting, we manufacture a diverse range of products, from high-accuracy parts used in commercial and military aviation to one-of-a-kind items for architectural installations.
With roots dating back to the 1950s, founding brothers Andre LaPorte and Jerry LaPorte operated a home improvement business in upstate New York. After developing an interest in antiques while restoring older homes, they transitioned their company into a manufacturer of stained glass Tiffany and Handel lamp reproductions. Operating under the name North Eastern Lamps & Bronze, the brother’s thriving business inspired them to find an automated method for cutting the individual pieces of stained glass for their vintage-style lamps. In 1991, their company was one of the first in New York State to acquire an abrasive water jet.
Quickly seeing the potential for the machine, their sons, Andre J. LaPorte and Lenny LaPorte, explored new markets for this exciting technology. Over the next few years, the company purchased three additional water jets to keep up with the demands of their growing business. In 1995, the sons took over the business, incorporated it under the name North Eastern Water Jet, and moved it into a large upstate facility in Amsterdam, New York.
Committed to staying on the leading edge of cutting technology and to support the needs of a steadily growing customer base, in 2001 the company purchased the first of two laser cutting systems. Having built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality parts rapidly and affordably, the pace of production expanded to three shifts a day, five to seven days a week.
The company is now owned and run by the third generation family members Brandy Kelleher and David Siiss. The original waterjets and lasers have been replaced with newer technology capable of more precise operation. Equipment assets now also include a vertical machining center, a Trumpf press brake, and multiple Flex-Arm tapping systems. In 2022, the company moved to Johnstown NY, between Albany and Syracuse.
Our most valuable asset continues to be our outstanding staff. Many employees have been working and learning with us for decades. Their motivation, expertise, and commitment are the foundation for our success. Our markets served include aerospace, automotive, transportation, power generation, lawn equipment, home furnishings, entertainment, restaurants, signage, amusement parks, industrial machinery, medical equipment, and many others.