ABOUT Beta Shim

Our History

Founded in South Norwalk, CT, Beta Shim began as a small precision manufacturer dedicated to delivering high-quality metal shims and stamped components. Early on, the company gained national recognition for its work on military footwear insoles during the Vietnam War, developed in partnership with the U.S. Army to protect soldiers from punji stake injuries. This innovation helped position Beta Shim as a trusted supplier to defense and aerospace clients, including Sikorsky Aircraft.

Throughout the 1980s, Beta Shim faced the challenges of rising material costs and increased foreign competition, yet continued to excel, earning consecutive nominations for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s “Award for Excellence.” The company’s success has always been powered by its people—from engineers and tooling specialists to exceptional employees like Richard Stark, a blind deburring technician, and Al Lopez, a master toolmaker. In 1989, leadership passed from founder Michael Errico to John McCue, ushering in a new era of growth and diversification.

Today, Beta Shim combines traditional craftsmanship with modern CNC technology. Our facility houses both legacy presses (20–80+ tons) and advanced Amada CNC turret presses, enabling us to handle everything from high-volume runs to ultra-precise custom work. Backed by decades of experience and a commitment to aerospace-grade quality, Beta Shim continues to manufacture every part to the highest standards—without exception.

Serving the Nation Through Innovation
Beta Shim is founded in South Norwalk, Connecticut, with a focus on precision metal stamping. During the Vietnam War, the company collaborates with the U.S. Army Footwear Laboratory to develop military insoles designed to prevent foot injuries from punji stakes. This marks the beginning of Beta Shim’s reputation for engineering precision under pressure.
Defense Contracts and National Recognition
Beta Shim expands its production of custom shims for aerospace applications, becoming a key supplier to defense contractors like Sikorsky Aircraft. The company is twice nominated for the SBA “Award for Excellence,” a reflection of its performance in quality, delivery, and customer satisfaction.
A New Chapter Begins
John McCue purchases the company from longtime president Michael Errico in a friendly leveraged buyout. McCue leads Beta Shim into a new era, maintaining the company’s core defense business while preparing for diversification into commercial and industrial markets.
Diversifying with Purpose
Facing rising material costs and global competition, Beta Shim modernizes its operations and explores new markets beyond defense. While remaining committed to precision manufacturing, the company expands its capabilities to serve medical, industrial, and commercial sectors with the same high standards.
Blending Craftsmanship and Automation
Beta Shim invests in two Amada CNC turret presses, complementing its array of traditional mechanical presses (20–80+ tons). This upgrade enables high-speed, high-precision production with tight tolerances—ideal for aerospace, defense, and advanced industrial applications.
Legacy-Driven Precision in a Digital Era
With decades of engineering experience and a skilled team of press operators, Beta Shim continues to meet the rigorous demands of the aerospace industry and beyond. Every part is produced to exact specifications, maintaining the company's unwavering commitment to quality and customer trust.
1960s–1970s — Origins and Military Innovation
1980s — Growth in Aerospace and Defense
1989 — Leadership Transition and New Vision
1990s–2000s — Adaptation and Expansion
2010s — CNC Technology Meets Tradition
2020s — Experience, Excellence, and Efficiency