We are the Royal Gorge Region: Machinist strengthens Fremont County's future
Mar 27, 2025
(CAÑON CITY, Colo.) — In the heart of Cañon City, a family-owned cutting-edge manufacturing facility is transforming the region with precision, innovation, and a strong commitment to quality. At its core, I Cubed Machining Technologies is a precision CNC machining shop specializing in subtractiv
e manufacturing.
A CNC machine shop uses various CNC machines to craft parts from metal or plastic. The technician writes a program to design the part, sets up the machines, monitors the cutting tools, and swaps out tools when necessary, all while the machines are operated by their onboard computers.
The I Cubed Machining Technologies facility creates high-quality components using a wide range of materials and finishes. It is a local business currently incubating at the Fremont County Economic Development Corporation.
Co-owner James Diorio, a third-generation machinist with deep roots in Fremont County, says I Cubed is more than just a job shop; it's a hub for advanced manufacturing, education, and community growth.
"My grandfather started a machine shop called Main Machine, locally down off of East Main, next to what is now the Conoco," Diorio said. "My father owned a local machine shop here for many years."
Diorio's connection to the area is what drives his passion for expanding local manufacturing opportunities.
"What inspired me to be involved in Fremont County manufacturing is, for lack of a better term, it's all I've ever known," Diorio explained. "It's an environment that has allowed me to grow as a person. It's an environment that has allowed me to raise a family, and it's something I enjoy giving back to. I'd like to expand Fremont County manufacturing for generations to come, to have the same experience in this community that I had."
Fremont County, while known for its tourism, is beginning to see a shift toward greater diversification in its economic base. According to Diorio, “There is a skill gap in the United States, and Fremont County is poised to take advantage of that.” He believes that the region has all the right resources for manufacturing to flourish, from a local high school machine technology program to support from organizations like the Fremont Development Corporation and Canon City Economic Development. “People here are hungry for opportunities to work hard and build something lasting,” Diorio says, adding that I Cubed is proud to be part of that growing momentum.
Diori says the company's location at the incubator has played a crucial role in its success. Looking toward the future, I Cubed hopes to expand its operations to surrounding counties and even on a national level.
"They allowed us to get into an opportunity where we could chase our dream and actually expand," Diorio said. "We originally did, trying to put this machine shop in my garage, and unfortunately, with space, electrical requirements, and some of the other ideologies in the residential environment, it was impossible."
I Cubed's facility can be found at 402 Valley Road Suite B, Cañon City, CO 81212. For general inquiries or quotes, you are asked to fill out the contact information on I Cubed's website. ...read more read less