Our History
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From the Beginning
J. Walter Becker started the IDEAL Commutator Dresser Company of Chicago from his mother's kitchen with the belief that every product should be worth more than its price.
Our History
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Introducing Wire Connectors
IDEAL INDUSTRIES introduced its first wire connectors, which would go on to become a cornerstone of the IDEAL INDUSTRIES product line.
Our History
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Commander Byrd Requests IDEAL
Knowing IDEAL’s reputation for quality and durability in the world’s harshest environments, Commander Richard Byrd, an American aviator and arctic explorer, requested IDEAL INDUSTRIES fuse pullers for his expedition to the South Pole.
Our History
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IDEAL BECOMES A CORPORATION
IDEAL INDUSTRIES became a corporation. This event ensured that IDEAL would continue to carry on after J. Walter Becker concluded his ownership and management of IDEAL. It was a legacy intended to be left for the Family and community of Sycamore.
Our History
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IDEAL Goes to the Moon
IDEAL INDUSTRIES contributed components used in the lunar landing module and made the journey to the moon. IDEAL wire strippers were specifically requested for the mission because of their reputation for quality and precision, even in the most extreme environments.
Our History
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Creating the Family Council
IDEAL established the Family Council as a key governing force for handling management and leadership succession decisions within the company. The council has always operated on a consensus basis, with all decisions being made for the well-being of IDEAL’s employees, customers, the surrounding community and the overall good of the company.
Our History
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Expanding across the globe
IDEAL INDUSTRIES expanded to Asia and South America with new offices in Shanghai, China in 2002 followed by São Paulo, Brazil in 2003.
Our History
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IDEAL ACQUIRES SK HAND TOOL
IDEAL INDUSTRIES made its line of American-made hand tools even more comprehensive with its acquisition of SK Hand Tool, a legendary manufacturer of mechanic tools. SK was the third addition of the decade for the IDEAL hand tool platform.
Our History
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PRESERVING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
After a long run as the IDEAL Chairman, Dave Juday retired, handing over leadership responsibilities to IDEAL’s current Chairman and CEO, Jim James.
