Back in the 1960s, John and Lee's father and 2 uncles formed and operated Custom Iron & Welding in La Habra, California.

In 1972 their father moved to Bend, Oregon forming a new company called Central Oregon Iron.

After a few years, he decided to move back to Southern California and with his two sons, Lee and John, established a new business called Courtney & Sons in Anaheim, California.

After the passing of Lee Sr. in 1979, Lee and John joined Custom Iron & Welding with their uncle Joe Frongello and Joe's son-in-laws Jan Grimm and John Massoth.

In 1995, John, Lee and Jan leave Custom Iron & Welding and establish Approved Equal Enterprises in Chino, California occupying a 3,000 square foot building.

In 1997 Approved Equal moves to a 5,000 square foot building in Montclair, California.

In March of 1998 they incorrporate as JLJ Creations, Inc (an S Corp) and register Approved Equal Enterprises as a DBA of the corporation.

In December of 2005, the three owners, John, Lee and Jan purchase property for a new shop and move to the current location in San Bernardino, California with 31,000 square feet of shop/yard and 4,000 square feet of office/warehouse.