In this episode of Mountain Mule Media, Tim sits down with Adrian Holley, owner of Dave’s Lock & Key, to talk about the legacy, craft, and evolution of locksmithing in Southwest Montana. From starting as an apprentice locksmith at Montana State University to buying Bozeman’s oldest lock shop, Adrian shares what it takes to keep a seventy-year-old business thriving in a rapidly changing world.
From MSU to Main Street
Adrian’s path into locksmithing was unexpected. While working in facilities at Montana State University, he joined an apprenticeship program in the campus lock shop. What began as curiosity turned into a career. He founded Holley Security Consultants in 2019 and later saw an opportunity to take his passion full time when Dave’s Lock & Key, Bozeman’s longest-running locksmith business, went up for sale.
Buying the shop in 2023 meant stepping into nearly seventy years of history. Adrian now leases the same space from the family of the original owner and continues the tradition of reliable service that started in 1956.
The Craft of Locksmithing
Locksmithing may seem simple from the outside, but Adrian explains the layers of complexity behind every door. From residential and commercial systems to safes and access control, today’s locksmithing combines craftsmanship with technology.
At Montana State, he managed a key system for more than 20,000 users. Today, his team handles everything from home and automotive locks to smart access systems that integrate with phones and cloud-based security. As technology advances, the heart of the work remains the same: keeping people and property safe.
The Value of a Master Locksmith
Adrian recently became a Certified Master Locksmith, a distinction earned through years of study, testing, and hands-on experience. The certification recognizes not only technical skill but also leadership within the trade. He compares locksmithing to solving puzzles without seeing the full picture. Each day brings a new challenge, and that constant problem-solving keeps the work exciting.
Leadership, Trust, and Teamwork
Running the business has taught Adrian that leading a team is as challenging as mastering the craft. He focuses on empowering his staff to take ownership and develop their own confidence. His motto in the shop is simple: figure it out.
He believes that allowing people to learn through experience builds better technicians and stronger leaders. Whether mentoring employees or raising his kids, Adrian applies the same philosophy of trust, accountability, and support.
Community and Legacy
For Adrian, success means more than running a profitable business. It is about continuing Dave’s legacy and staying involved in the Bozeman community. He encourages other business owners to connect locally, sponsor events, and support one another.
As he says, locksmithing is about trust. People often call in stressful situations, and the job is to help them through it with skill and care. From residential customers to business owners and travelers, Adrian and his team provide solutions that combine old-school service with modern technology.
Where to Find Dave’s Lock & Key
You can find more about the company at daveslockandkey.com or by calling 406-586-5187. Whether you need a new key, access control setup, or advice on keeping your home secure, the team at Dave’s Lock & Key has you covered.
Mountain Mule Media is a production of Mountain Mule Transportation. Whether it is weddings, airport transfers, or a night out in Bozeman, Mountain Mule is your trusted ride with Montana hospitality.
