Founded in 1983, The Iron Shop LLC is a family and veteran-owned business built through generations of hard work, military service, and a commitment to quality craftsmanship.

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After serving their country in the United States Air Force, Neal Watkins, a former underground Titan II nuclear missile silo crew member, and Donna Watkins, a former F-4 Phantom aircraft mechanic, shared a vision of building something of their own. In 1983, that vision became reality when The Iron Shop was established in Azle, Texas. While Donna completed her enlistment at what was then Carswell Air Force Base (now Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth), she simultaneously helped build and operate the growing family business alongside Neal. Together, they laid the foundation for a company built on hard work, integrity, quality, and attention to detail.

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Growing up around and working in the family business, James "JD" Watkins developed an early appreciation for the craftsmanship, work ethic, and customer service that built The Iron Shop's reputation. After graduating in 1997, he began a 25-year career in the United States Navy as a Seabee before retiring as a Construction Mechanic Senior Chief and returning home to carry on the family business founded by his parents in 1983.

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Today, JD leads the company while Neal and Donna remain actively involved in the business they built more than four decades ago. Although semi-retired, they continue to share their knowledge, experience, and guidance while maintaining relationships with many customers who have become lifelong friends over the years. It is not uncommon for customers who first worked with The Iron Shop decades ago to still call and ask for Neal or Donna by name.

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More than 40 years after it began, The Iron Shop remains a true family business. Three generations of the Watkins family have been involved in building and carrying on the company, with the next generation already learning the values of hard work, craftsmanship, and customer service that have defined The Iron Shop since 1983. While the tools, equipment, and technology have evolved over the years, the values that built the company remain unchanged: integrity, quality, craftsmanship, and service.

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What began as a dream shared by two Air Force veterans has grown into a family legacy built on trust, relationships, and a commitment to doing things the right way. Every project we undertake carries not only our name, but the reputation that three generations of the Watkins family have worked to build.

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Family Owned. Veteran Owned. Built to Last.

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"The difficult we do at once. The impossible takes a little longer."

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CAN DO.