From Sacrifice to Success: How a Porsche-Fueled Dream Led to MFE Enterprises’ Legacy

It was 1989, and Dave Amos had a tough decision to make. In his garage sat his beloved Porsche 911, a sleek machine that had been his pride and joy for years. But parked next to it was something far more valuable: a dream.

That dream wasn’t about luxury or speed—it was about revolutionizing the inspection industry. Dave and his close friend and business partner, William “Bill” Duke, had been working on something groundbreaking: a tank floor scanner that could transform how industries detected corrosion and maintained critical infrastructure.

The problem? They needed funding.

Dave, a born problem-solver, knew that innovation often comes at a cost. So, in a move that spoke volumes about his commitment, he sold his Porsche, a car he had poured time and passion into, to fund the research and development of their invention. It wasn’t just about making money—it was about building something that could truly make a difference.

The Friendship That Built an Industry

Bill Duke, an engineer with a mind for invention, had developed a powerful new way to inspect tank floors using magnetic flux leakage (MFL) technology. His idea had the potential to revolutionize the oil and gas industry, but without the right backing, it was just an idea. Dave saw the potential in Bill’s vision and put everything on the line—including his prized Porsche—to bring it to life.

Together, they worked tirelessly, refining designs, running tests, and proving that MFL technology could provide an unparalleled level of accuracy and efficiency. Their scanner quickly became a game-changer, giving tank operators the ability to detect corrosion and flaws that would otherwise go unseen—saving companies millions and preventing catastrophic failures.

That sacrifice—the sale of a Porsche—wasn’t just a financial investment, it was a testament to trust, friendship, and an unshakable belief in their work.

A Full-Circle Moment

Decades later, MFE Enterprises had grown into an industry leader, setting the standard for non-destructive testing equipment. And while the business had evolved, the friendship that built it remained as strong as ever.

In an unforgettable moment that could only be described as poetic justice, Bill Duke—forever grateful for Dave’s sacrifice—tracked down the same exact Porsche Dave had sold all those years ago. In a surprise gesture that underscored their lifelong bond, Bill handed Dave the keys, bringing their journey full circle.

For Dave, it wasn’t about the car—it never had been. It was about the choices, the risks, and the trust that had built something bigger than either of them had imagined.

The Legacy of MFE Enterprises

Today, MFE Enterprises continues to lead the industry in inspection technology, but its foundation is more than just innovation—it’s built on perseverance, friendship, and a willingness to take bold steps for what truly matters.

The Porsche may have been the price of admission, but what Dave and Bill created together? That’s priceless.