In 1989, CADimensions was born from a simple yet powerful idea: entrepreneurship and a drive to fill a critical gap in the industry.  At the time, the engineering and design market was increasingly demanding, creating a growing need for resellers who could provide computer and software solutions. As computer-aided design software and hardware gained popularity, expanding channel businesses became essential in bringing products to market. For Pete DiLaura, launching this business was driven by both passion and necessity. Initially, the goal wasn’t to revolutionize the industry but to build a meaningful business – and that’s exactly what he did. Today, CADimensions stands as a leading force in the industry, and this story captures the journey that led to its success. 

The first year was nothing short of humbling – the entire team consisted of Pete and his late wife Tara. It wasn’t until Pete’s second year in business that he brought on his first technical support engineer, Mike Smith. Later that year, he received valuable support from Linda McHugh, a close family friend who stepped in to assist with the company’s bookkeeping. Linda initially worked part-time but later became a full-time cornerstone of the company, dedicating 28 years to CADimensions and becoming an integral part of the company legacy.  

“Linda was my conscience. Always hearing my concerns and willing to help by providing solid advice when working with our venders.” – Pete DiLaura 

In those early days, the hurdles were endless. Pete and Tara spent long hours at home manually creating proposals, handling invoices, and paperwork, while also traveling to customers for sales calls, installing systems, and planning the next day’s schedule. There was no fancy office or advanced tools to rely on; just hard work and a vision. 

"During the formative years of CADimensions, every moment was spent working – from sales calls, to proposals, sending quotes, and staying up until 2 AM doing invoices. The struggles of starting a business weren’t just challenges; they became a way of life through continued persistence, passion and the idea of what could be.” – Pete DiLaura 

Building the Foundation: A Family Effort 

When the business started, the name “CADimensions” wasn’t chosen in a corporate boardroom but around the family’s dinner table. Pete wanted a name that reflected the importance of dimensions in engineering drawings and computer-aided design. Looking back, this moment epitomizes what CADimensions has always been about: collaboration, family, and a shared vision. 

"One of the more defining moments I have was sitting around the dinner table with my family, going through a list of names, and deciding what we would call this company. CADimensions wasn’t just a name – it was the foundation of a concept we would bring to life together." – Pete DiLaura 

Securing vendor partnerships was another critical step in those early days. A vital relationship with CADKEY allowed CADimensions to begin delivering reliable solutions to customers and set the stage for long-term growth. By 1993, a pivotal project with a large local customer solidified the CADimensions reputation. Transitioning from paper-based engineering documentation to a digital retrieval system demonstrated innovation and adaptability in engineering. This project not only improved efficiency but also proved that CADimensions could handle complex challenges. 

Redefining Progress Through Technology 

The rapid advancements in technology have been both an obstacle and an opportunity. From manual drafting tools and blueprint machines to complex CAD systems and 3D printing, the team has always welcomed change. In the mid-1990s, CADimensions adopted SOLIDWORKS, helping clients transition to 3D CAD and Solid Modeling software.  In 2003, Gary McHugh – Pete’s college roommate and Linda’s husband, joined the company and played a crucial role in recognizing the potential of additive manufacturing. This led to CADimensions forming an alliance with Stratasys to sell their 3D printers, a groundbreaking decision that opened exciting new avenues for growth.  

Leadership and the CADLIFE Culture 

Around 2007, CADimensions began to truly define its identity as a family business. Pete's oldest son, Andy joined the company and then Tom, his younger son came on board in 2013.  With Pete’s sons joining the team, it became clear that the company’s strength resided in shared values and a team-oriented approach. Succession planning was a deliberate process, ranging over a decade to ensure a smooth transition. Andy, now president, demonstrates exceptional leadership, guiding the company toward continued success with his brother Tom by his side as VP of the Technical team.  

“Be willing to take bigger risks and trust your data and instincts. I was very cautious and although the business grew, we could have grown faster if we had taken a bigger risk to increase our potential. We are more direct and analytical now with the addition of my two sons who are now working in the business and learning quickly.” - Pete DiLaura  

Part of that leadership vision was Andy being the driving force behind the development of the award-winning CADimensions culture – CADLIFE. This is what truly sets CADimensions apart from the rest. Continuously prioritizing listening to customers, employees, and industry trends above all else. This openness has allowed for non-stop evolution, whether it’s by embracing remote work post-COVID, exploring acquisitions, or diversifying offerings. 

Why CADLIFE

Over the years as we have grown and our business has progressed, we have established a culture that differentiates CADimensions from many other service providers. This culture is built off what we call our CADLIFE Values which represent the most important aspects of our business: Customers, Attitude, Dedication, Loyalty, Integrity, Family and Employees. We use our CADLIFE Values as a guide so we can continue to strive to meet the objectives of our mission.

Paving The Way Forward Through Community Contributions 

Giving back has always been a core value for CADimensions. From joint-ventures with educational institutions and supporting initiatives in the community, the growing team has made it a priority to always invest in the future of others. Projects like the DiLaura Inspiration and Design Lab at Le Moyne College have empowered the community and shown what’s possible when businesses prioritize impact over profit. 

As Pete reflects on his journey, he’s struck by how far the company has come. From a small team working out of necessity to an industry leader embracing cutting-edge technology, CADimensions has flourished while staying true to its roots. The legacy Pete hopes to leave is one of ongoing listening, fostering synergy, promoting steady growth, and giving back. 

“Creating and watching CADimensions become what it is today has been an incredible experience.  It did not happen overnight and there was a lot of sweet equity from Tara and I and all our employees.  We always felt we were blessed to have created an environment that promoted unity, company spirit and a sense of helping others.  I was lucky to have had Tara, Linda and Gary help in the early years, and I am more thrilled that Andy, Tom and their leadership team, are taking CADimensions to a new level of success.” - Pete DiLaura 

Here’s to the next chapter of CADimensions and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.