In 1940, Jack Walters, Sr. started manufacturing oxy-fuel cutting tips in a makeshift workshop in his home. As the demand for materials and manufacturing brought on by World War II increased, Walters started American Torch Tip Co. (ATTC) in a small, rented garage in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Seventy-five years later, ATTC’s manufacturing plant and headquarters now occupy approximately 72,000 sq. ft., spanning three buildings in Bradenton, Fla. There, the company produces about 20,000 parts, encompassing five welding technologies including Plasma, MIG, TIG, Oxy-Fuel and Laser. Distribution networks have grown to almost every global market, with products shipping to more than 55 countries, and the company employs more than 150 full-time workers.
“We attribute our success to a company-wide commitment to innovation and quality,” said current CEO Jack Walters, III. “We chose our company statement — Creating a Better Experience — with great care. It is about more than simply producing quality products. It’s also about how we deal with people’s needs and help solve their problems.”