Thanks to a management group led by Dave Mesick, Milwaukee Forge was saved from insolvency in 2010 and celebrated its 100th year in operation last week. Originally started in 1913 as Milwaukee Forge & Machine Co., the firm’s major products include transmission parts for construction equipment and off-road vehicles. Keeping operations and jobs in Milwaukee was a crucial part of the Mesick-led team's bid to acquire the company. The forge, which currently employs 118 people, owes 80% of its business to a core group of 25 customers, including Caterpillar Inc.