Finishes That Work as Hard as You Do.
Industrial powder coating built for high-volume production, oversized parts, and environments that demand more.
the hotkote difference
The Most Advanced Powder Coating System in the Region
HotKote delivers premium industrial powder coating engineered for maximum durability, consistent color quality, and long‑term performance in demanding environments. As one of the Midwest’s most advanced powder coating providers, our facility is built for high‑volume production, oversized parts, and rapid turnaround times, making us the go-to partner for manufacturers, fabricators, and contractors who need finishes that last
From First Blast to Final Finish
Our end-to-end process ensures exceptional adhesion, corrosion resistance, and uniform coverage — no matter the volume.
With in‑house media blasting, chemical pre‑treatment, and advanced curing technology, every part that enters our system is prepped for exceptional adhesion and corrosion resistance. Our production‑ready coating line ensures uniform coverage, repeatable results, and tight quality control whether you’re coating one prototype or thousands of parts.
hotkote stands out as a trusted finishing parter for companies who demand:
Long‑lasting, corrosion‑resistant powder coating built for harsh climates and heavy use
High‑volume capacity and oversized part handling for large‑scale manufacturing
Precision color matching and consistent finish quality across every batch
Fast, dependable turnaround supported by streamlined processes and in‑house quality assurance
from field to factory
HotKote delivers the finishes that keep every industry running.
From agriculture and manufacturing to construction, trailers, and commercial product lines, HotKote delivers fast, reliable, high‑performance powder coating that keeps production moving and products protected.
Lincoln & Waverly, Nebraska
Our
Story
From a small batch oven in a 3,000 sq ft shop to a state-of-the-art dual-facility operation — here's how we got here.
The Beginning
HotKote 751 Opens Its Doors
Craig and Karen Sparks, alongside their son Aaron, launched HotKote 751 out of a 3,000 sq ft shop with a small batch oven. Their 30 years in the automotive service industry revealed a clear gap in the market — a professional powder coat facility that was actually accessible to walk-in customers. That insight became HotKote's foundation.
Room to Grow
10,000 Sq Ft & a 30-Foot Oven
Steady growth drove a major upgrade — HotKote moved into a 10,000 sq ft facility complete with a 30-foot batch oven and a state-of-the-art wash and prep station. More space. More capacity. The same commitment to quality.
A New Chapter
Industrial Growth & a Key Partnership
Continued expansion — especially in the industrial sector — created the opportunity for HotKote to partner with ESC / Empire in the development of a second facility. Bigger vision. Stronger foundation. More ways to serve our customers.
The Future Is Here
Second Facility Opens in Waverly, NE
Production launches at our second, state-of-the-art facility in Waverly, Nebraska. This cutting-edge location features a semi-automated overhead conveyor system and an infrared cure oven — pushing the limits of what powder coating can do at speed and scale.
Still Writing the Story
The best is yet to come.
meet Our Team
colleen sorben
President
scott kleinbeck
Vice President
ellie ramirez
Admin Assistant
conrad schroeder
Logistics
quentin bohaty
craig sparks
Sales
Waverly Shop Manager
jake myers
cory lang
Operations Manager
Lincoln Shop Manager
Proud member of the crown co. family
As part of the Empire family, HotKote 751 brings the same commitment to quality, grit, and service that’s made Empire a trusted name in commercial and industrial projects nationwide. With shared values and a network of resources, we deliver more than powder coating, we deliver:
Peace of mind
Stronger capabilities
Smarter logistics
A team you can count on
mySalesman