Our Story
What started as two friends with a shared vision in a Sherwood, Oregon garage has grown into Pacific Gate Works—a company built on the belief that exceptional craftsmanship and genuine customer relationships are the foundation of lasting success.
In 2003, I founded Pacific Gate Works alongside one of my best friends, driven by an innate desire to create something meaningful. We didn't just want to build gates; we wanted to solve problems for people who valued quality and reliability. That ember of innovation, fanned by hard work and an unwavering commitment to improvement, became the driving force behind everything we do.
Over two decades later, those same foundational principles remain at the heart of PGW. We've learned that patience—truly understanding what our customers want and need—comes through time, experience, and genuine listening. Every conversation teaches us something new, and every project makes us better craftsmen.
Today, we specialize in creating the finest custom wooden gates, each one handcrafted to meet your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're starting a project from scratch or replacing an old, unreliable gate that's seen better days, we're here to guide you toward the perfect solution that will work flawlessly day after day, season after season.
Our gates feature top-grade Western Red Cedar—our wood of choice for nearly 20 years—selected for its unmatched beauty and exceptional outdoor durability. When you choose Pacific Gate Works, you're not just buying a gate; you're investing in a piece of craftsmanship that reflects our pride in doing things right.
Meet Tom Ellingson, Founder & President
With over 20 years at the helm of Pacific Gate Works, I've had the privilege of watching this company grow from a garage startup into a trusted name in custom gate manufacturing. But my journey to founding PGW began long before 2003.
My background in engineering, combined with nearly a decade in materials engineering and product development at a couple manufacturing companies, taught me that great products don't happen by accident—they're the result of careful planning, precise execution, and continuous refinement. When I started Pacific Gate Works, I brought this same methodical approach to woodworking, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering principles.
What drives me every day is the satisfaction of creating something that will last. There's something deeply rewarding about knowing that the gates we build today will still be functioning beautifully for decades to come. I take personal pride in every piece that leaves our shop, and I stand behind our work with the confidence that comes from 20+ years of perfecting our craft.
When I'm not in the workshop or working with customers to design their perfect gate, you'll find me continually learning—whether that's exploring new techniques, sourcing better materials, or finding ways to improve our processes. That drive for continuous improvement that started in my garage workshop continues to fuel Pacific Gate Works today.
Ready to discuss your custom gate project? I'd love to hear about your vision and help you create something exceptional.
Tom Ellingson
Founder
