DeWalt celebrates a century of innovation
DeWalt, a Stanley Black & Decker, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.
The tool maker said it has been delivering tools, “to meet the needs of professional tradespeople around the world since 1924 when Raymond DeWalt’s forward-looking vision resulted in the founding of DeWalt.”
His journey, said the company, led to the invention of the “Wonder-Worker,” an adjustable electric radial arm saw that provided the ability to efficiently execute multiple operations on one affordable piece of equipment.
The Wonder-Worker set the stage for DeWalt to begin distributing products both nationally and internationally, with the company counting household names like Steinway & Sons and Westinghouse Electric Co. among its satisfied clients, wrote the firm.
By 1927, Sears, Roebuck and Co. boasted that DeWalt’s saw contributed to helping manufacture, “50 ready-cut houses each day,” said the company.
“When we put the DeWalt name on something, it’s a commitment that our tools will help get the job done right,” said Chris Nelson, chief operating officer, executive VP and president, tools and outdoor at Stanley Black & Decker.
“This milestone anniversary is also a humbling reminder of both the responsibility and critical role DeWalt plays supporting the trades with solutions, training and resources needed to meet the demands of the future,” said Nelson.
To celebrate, on May 14, 2024, DeWalt said it will honor its 100-year milestone by ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange.
The firm said it has also pledged $30 million to its “Grow the Trades” initiative to support current and future generations of trades professionals.
“Entering DeWalt’s second century, we remain just as committed to driving relentless innovation and supporting the trades as Raymond DeWalt did in 1924,” said Nelson.
“DeWalt’s future remains strong, and we will lead the way in empowering tradespeople to succeed while defining the next era of industry innovation,” said Nelson.
