SolutionWare

What SolutionWare does

SolutionWare Corporation is a privately held, US-based software company, founded in 1975 and headquartered in San Jose, California, that develops and sells the GeoPath family of CAD/CAM software for CNC machine programming. The company serves machine shops, aerospace and defense manufacturers, and technical training institutions, with a particular focus on shops running Mazak controllers (via its Mazatrol-output capability) as well as standard G-code equipment from Fanuc, Okuma, Fadal, and Haas. Its modular architecture lets customers license a base milling, lathe, EDM, 3D milling, solid verification, or Mazatrol module and add capabilities incrementally.

GeoPath is delivered as a fully integrated, Windows-based CAD/CAM system supporting 2.5-axis through 5-axis milling, turning with C- and Y-axis live tooling, 4-axis wire EDM, and solid verification simulation. It reads common CAD interchange formats (DXF, IGES, STEP) and emits executable code directly to Mazatrol- or G-code-based controllers through a universal post-processor. The related sub-brand MazaCAM provides dedicated off-line programming and file-management utilities for Mazak machine owners, while PowerCAM, introduced via a partnership with SolidWorks, automates CNC program generation from native SolidWorks solid models. Core proprietary assets include the universal post-processor library covering a wide range of Mazak controllers and the 'ease-of-use' positioning explicitly targeted at machinists rather than CAD specialists.

SolutionWare generates revenue predominantly through perpetual software licenses for the base GeoPath system and add-on modules, complemented by annual service contracts that grant access to updates and upgrades, plus recurring technical support. The go-to-market is sales-led via direct phone outreach (main line 408-249-1529, toll-free 888-3CAD-CAM), supplemented by an authorized dealer network, trade show and seminar presence, and training institution partnerships (NTMA, BIR Training Center, Center for Employment Training). Pricing is not publicly disclosed and is configured per module mix, with free training bundled into every purchase and certified program offered for advanced users. Documented customers include Boeing (Rocketdyne), Flowserve, WessDel (NASA Mars rover parts), Acme Industries, A1-Jay's Machining, and a long tail of independent job shops, with case studies reporting 30–80% reductions in CNC programming time.

Name

SolutionWare

Legal name

SolutionWare Corporation

Website

https://solution-ware.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1975

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

SolutionWare Corporation, founded 1975 and headquartered in San Jose, California, develops the GeoPath modular CAD/CAM software system for CNC programming on milling, lathe, EDM, and Mazak-controlled machines, serving independent machine shops, aerospace and defense manufacturers, and CNC training institutions.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

CNC CAD/CAM Software

NAICS

Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing (3341)

SIC

General Industrial Machinery & Equipment (3560)

akta.pro primary industry

CNC Machine Tools (Turning, Milling, Machining Centers) (IMAHADAA)

akta.pro secondary industry

Motion & Machine Control (CNC, Robotics Controllers, Servo/Motion Controllers) (IMAGABAG)

Keywords

• CAD CAM software
• CNC programming
• Mazatrol programming
• Wire EDM software
• Machine shop software

Headquarters

HQ city

San Jose

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Software

Cost components

Technology or R&D, Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Software Licenses (GeoPath CAD/CAM): SolutionWare sells GeoPath CAD/CAM software licenses as a modular system. Shops purchase the base CAD/CAM system and add modules as needed (Milling, Lathe, 3D, EDM, Mazatrol, Solid Verification, PowerCAM). Pricing requires contacting sales for quotes.
2. Training Services: Free training included with every GeoPath and MazaCAM purchase. Additional training available at SolutionWare's San Jose facility or via online Netmeeting sessions. Certification program available for users completing training requirements.
3. Software Upgrades and Updates: Existing customers under service contract receive free updates. Customers not under contract can pay for upgrades. Annual service contracts provide access to new features and enhancements.
4. Technical Support: Technical support provided via phone and email. Support included with warranty and service contracts. Support staff assist with post-processors, CAD file issues, and general troubleshooting.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels8 records

Core offering

SolutionWare develops and sells GeoPath, a fully integrated, modular Windows-based CAD/CAM software system for off-line CNC programming. The base system covers 2.5- to 5-axis milling with add-on modules for lathe (live tooling, C/Y-axis), 3D surface milling, wire EDM, solid verification, direct Mazatrol output, and PowerCAM auto-programming within SolidWorks. The system targets job shops and production manufacturers needing to program Mazak (Mazatrol) and standard G-code CNC machines from a single platform.

Product overview

SolutionWare provides GeoPath, a modular CAD/CAM software system for CNC programming. The core GeoPath CAD/CAM System serves as the foundation, with add-on modules including GeoPath Mill (for 2-5 axis milling), GeoPath Lathe (for turning with live-tooling support), GeoPath 3D Milling (for surface machining), GeoPath EDM Programming (for wire EDM), GeoPath Solid Verification (for toolpath simulation), GeoPath Mazatrol Output (for Mazak controllers), and PowerCAM (auto programming within SolidWorks). The related sub-brand MazaCAM provides Mazatrol-specific off-line programming tools. GeoPath outputs both G-code for standard CNC machines and Mazatrol for Mazak controllers, supporting machines from various manufacturers including Fanuc, Okuma, Fadal, Haas, and Mazak. The system features a modular architecture allowing shops to customize their CAD/CAM capabilities without purchasing unnecessary features.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• GeoPath: Fully integrated CAD/CAM system for CNC programming supporting 2 to 5 axis milling, lathes, EDM programming, solid verification, and Mazatrol output.
• MazaCAM
• PowerCAM

Products and services

• GeoPath CAD/CAM System Fully integrated Windows-based CAD/CAM system for off-line CNC programming, sold as the base product to which other modules can be added. Supports 2.5-axis to 5-axis milling and serves machine shops, aerospace/defense manufacturers, and training institutions.
• GeoPath Mill Module Complete CAD/CAM module for 2.5-axis to 5-axis milling with STEP/IGES/DXF import, universal post-processor, high-speed machining support, and 3-D views. Runs on Windows 7/8/10/11.
• GeoPath Lathe Module CAD/CAM module for turning operations supporting C-axis and Y-axis live-tooling programming, with built-in tool library and 3-D views. Available standalone or integrated with the mill module.
• GeoPath 3D Milling Module Full 3D CAD/CAM module with 3D surface rendering, supporting splines, B-splines, NURBS, and parametric surfaces for complex 3-axis machining.
• GeoPath EDM Programming Module Wire-EDM programming module supporting 2-axis and 4-axis operations, with IGES surface import, built-in tool library, and configurable universal post-processor.
• GeoPath Solid Verification Module Graphic simulation module that renders a solid model of the part and simulates the cutting process to identify errors, gouges, and collisions before machining.
• GeoPath Mazatrol Output Module Direct Mazatrol output module enabling GeoPath to output programs for Mazak controllers (QT-Smart, Matrix, Fusion-640, Integrex, e-Machine, Multiplex, etc.) and convert Mazatrol to G-code.
• GeoPath PowerCAM Auto-programming module that works within SolidWorks, automatically programming parts from solid models and outputting Mazatrol or G-code to various CNC machines.
• MazaCAM Mazatrol-oriented off-line programming system integrated with GeoPath, providing utilities for Mazatrol editing, file management, and conversion between different Mazak control types. Sold as a distinct sub-brand targeting Mazak shop owners.
• GeoPath Training and Certification Training program (in-person at San Jose, online via Netmeeting, and through authorized partners like BIR Training Center) included free with software purchase, with certification available for users completing training requirements.

Quantifiable outcome

• 30-50% reduction in programming time across multiple customers
• +6 more outcomes

Named customers16 records

Segments7 records

Ideal customer profiles6 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration6 records

Feature7 records

Partnerships

Three partnerships are on record, tiered core.

• SolidWorks (Dassault Systèmes)coreTechnology or Integration · 1 April 2006SolutionWare partnered with SolidWorks to create PowerCAM for SolidWorks, enabling direct Mazatrol and G-code output from within the SolidWorks interface. PowerCAM uses SolidWorks feature information to automatically generate CNC programs, linking CAD design directly to manufacturing output.
• BIR Training CentercoreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerBIR Training Center is an authorized training provider for SolutionWare, offering instruction in CNC machining, CNC programming, and GeoPath CAD/CAM software. Located in Chicago with four campuses, BIR has provided computerized manufacturing training since 1993.
• NTMA (National Tooling and Machining Association)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerSolutionWare and NTMA partnered to train incumbent workers and apprentice machinists through 'Computers in Machining' classes. NTMA Training Centers use GeoPath for teaching CNC programming to students beginning careers in machining.

Scale indicators5 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights4 records

Direct peers

• SolidCAM: SolidCAM's iMachining and full CNC module runs inside SolidWorks to output G-code and supports multi-axis milling — analogous to SolutionWare's PowerCAM for SolidWorks integration. Direct competitor for the SolidWorks-seated SolidWorks shop.
• Autodesk Fusion 360: Fusion 360 is Autodesk's cloud CAD/CAM/CAE platform covering milling, turning, and additive for SMB and pro users. Represents SolutionWare's most disruptive modern competitor with subscription pricing and free/low-cost entry tiers aimed at the same job-shop buyer.
• GibbsCAM: GibbsCAM is a direct SMB-focused CAM competitor with strong multi-axis milling and multi-controller (including Mazak/Mazatrol) support. Competes head-to-head for mixed-controller job-shop CAM seats where GeoPath's Mazatrol dual-output capability is a key selling point.
• BobCAD-CAM: BobCAD-CAM targets the same entry-level and mid-market CNC job shop segment as GeoPath with 2–5 axis milling, lathe, and educational licensing. Direct competitor in the price-sensitive SMB CAM market.
• CNC Software / Mastercam: Mastercam is the dominant direct competitor in PC-based CAM software for CNC mills, lathes, and wire EDM. Serves the same SMB machine-shop segment and offers comparable 2–5 axis milling and multi-post-postprocessor coverage, making it the closest direct competitor to GeoPath.

Broad incumbents

• Siemens NX CAM: NX CAM is a broad-incumbent enterprise CAM offering from Siemens with multi-axis milling, turning, and machine-tool simulation. Targets aerospace/defense and large manufacturers — the same enterprise tier where SolutionWare has Boeing and WessDel as references.
• Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence (ESPRIT CAM): ESPRIT CAM is a multi-axis milling, turning, and wire-EDM CAM system with strong Mazak/Mazatrol support — directly comparable to GeoPath for job shops on Mazak controllers. Part of Hexagon's broad manufacturing-intelligence portfolio.
• Dassault Systèmes CATIA / DELMIA: CATIA (with DELMIA machining) is the dominant enterprise CAD/CAM suite for aerospace OEMs and tier-1 suppliers, including Boeing. Competes for the same high-mix aerospace/defense accounts where SolutionWare has Rocketdyne and Mars Rover part references.

Emerging players

• Vero Software (WorkNC, VISI, Edgecam): Vero's WorkNC specializes in 2–5 axis surface milling for molds, dies, and aerospace — a direct technical comparable to GeoPath's 3D Milling module for shops running NURBS/B-spline surface machining.
• CAMWorks: CAMWorks is a SolidWorks-native CAM system with knowledge-based machining and automatic feature recognition. Comparable to SolutionWare's PowerCAM with deeper SolidWorks feature recognition, competing for the same SolidWorks-based manufacturing shop.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/sln-corporation

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles3 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about SolutionWare