Crystal Group was founded in 1987 by Craig Jensen as Emerald Engineering, a computer consulting firm that designed industrial computers for the telecommunications industry. Emerald's first location was a tabletop in Craig Jensen's home. Soon thereafter, Craig developed the first PC-based live/automated operator service platform. In 1991, he formed Crystal Group Inc., a sister company, to manufacture and market specialized industrial computers for the telecommunications industry.

In 2001, Crystal Group recognized a need for their computers' capabilities in the military and government sectors and by 2004 had deployed on 100 military/NASA programs. In late 2006, Crystal Group launched their new RS series of products, fundamentally changing the product offerings and options for our customers. Crystal Group deployed on their 300th military program in 2011. Over the years Crystal has evolved into a server and system manufacturer, a systems integrator, and custom design and manufacturing service provider serving both the communication and aerospace/military markets in over 36 countries.

In August 2011, CEO Craig Jensen retired and Dexter Apache Holdings, Inc. an Iowa based company with diverse interests in manufacturing, financial services and distribution acquired 100% of the interests of Crystal Group, Inc.

Dexter Apache Holdings, Inc. is owned 100% by its employees through an ESOP.