Blackhawk Machine Products began in 1977 as a small screw machine job shop. It's founder, Gene Cilento, was a recognized single spindle screw machine expert, who decided to leave his position at Brown & Sharpe after twenty five years to open his own company.

His vast engineering and hands-on knowledge of the set-up and construction of Brown & Sharpe screw machines enabled him to hold tolerances and finishes that stretched these machines beyond their normal capabilities. Gene has passed this experience on by grooming our engineers and set-up technicians to a high level of expertise.

In 1985, Blackhawk Machine Products purchased Sherman Screw Products, a fifty year old company serving the fastener, valve, and commercial products industries.

In 1990, both companies were merged and moved into our present facilities, an 18,500 sq. ft. building located in Smithfield, RI. Consistent growth has ultimately resulted in a forty employee operation. Our expertise in the manufacturing of close tolerance products has been largely responsible for our growth.

In 1998, Gene retired and passed the running of the company on to his son Joseph Cilento.