6 minute read
Building Thrills
Bringing the fun to theme park customers all over the world has been quite a ride for Tom Rebbie and Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters.
In the township of Hatfield, a unique legacy resides at the heart of Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc. The story of PTCI is not just about engineering roller coaster thrills; it's about family, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of amusement parks. Tom Rebbie, the proud owner, shares a tale of determination and a roller coaster ride through the company's history.
Rebbie’s story began in 1977 when he first stepped into the business, known at that time as the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. His journey, initially perceived as a temporary gig, transformed into a life-long commitment to the amusement industry. With a hint of levity, Rebbie reflects on his early entry-level tasks of drilling holes and operating the metal bandsaw, which starkly contrasted with the leadership role he would eventually embrace.
The Family's Roller Coaster Beginnings
Originally established in Germantown in 1904, the company's headquarters shifted to Lansdale in 1971 under the guidance of owner Sam High. With nearly a century of industry experience, the Philadelphia Toboggan Company emerged as a leading coaster manufacturer.
Rebbie's entry into the company is a testament to perseverance and passion. After inquiring with the general manager numerous times about a job, he finally got his break. Taking a small pay cut, he joined the company as a drill press operator and was promoted to shop foreman within nine months.
Tom's leadership and hard work paid off. In 1984, after landing a contract to build coaster cars for an Ohio-based park, PTCI promoted Rebbie to the role of general manager. Long workdays were the norm, as Tom juggled both management duties and hands-on responsibilities—without the aid of modern technology to streamline and make processes more efficient.
A defining moment in the company’s history took place in 1991 when High presented Rebbie with an unexpected proposition: to buy the company and carry its legacy forward. That started Rebbie on a journey that involved meticulous planning and consultation with business and finance experts to secure financial backing. The successful acquisition of the company was, as you would expect, a roller coaster ride.
A New Chapter Unfolds
Once the transaction was complete, Rebbie and the former owner, Sam High, held a press conference to announce the change of hands. They met with industry media at the amusement park industry's largest tradeshow, and the resulting publicity set the stage for a successful transition, as confidence in Rebbie's vision was affirmed. “I wouldn’t have sold the company to anyone else,” High told the press.
The publicity from the trade show came at the perfect time. As PTCI expanded, it became a household name in coaster manufacturing, providing cars to renowned parks like Disney, Dorney Park, Hershey Park, Knoebel’s, and Dutch Wonderland. International ventures included selling coaster cars to an amusement park in China.
In 1999, PTCI's growth required the company to relocate again—and the new plant in Hatfield marked a milestone in the company's history. The move doubled its size, supporting future expansion, enabling PTCI to offer more comprehensive services tailored to meet specific customer needs.
Rebbie’s journey took an unexpected twist when Janine, his daughter, faced a dilemma of balancing her career and her passion for adventure. A certified school teacher, she found herself unexpectedly immersed in the family business after a ski trip in Vail, Colorado. Rebbie's unwavering support for her career goals paved the way for Janine's 14-year journey alongside her father, creating a strong father-daughter bond forged through shared adventures and exposure to diverse cultures. Rebbie made it clear from the beginning—she would have to work and learn the business from the ground up.
“When we first considered having Janine join the company, I assured her that this wasn’t going to be a ‘princess job’ where she got by on Dad’s coattails,” Tom says. “She was going to have to learn the business, and she was going to have to work.” Now, when the time comes to hand over the reins, PTCI will be in good, capable hands, given the extensive experience Janine has attained.
Love of Community
PTCI’s engagement with the community is an important part of their culture. The company once built a safe for the Montgomery County SWAT unit, and has also designed, produced and patented a device that helps amusement parks comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act—reflecting not just technical prowess, but a desire to make amusement parks accessible to everyone.
Ask Tom what he appreciates most about operating his business in Hatfield, and he expresses a special appreciation for the crucial role played by the Hatfield Police and Fire Departments. “I have a real soft spot for the work our police officers and volunteer firemen do to keep our community safe,” Tom says.
Tom has diligently mentored Janine in every aspect of the coaster car business, and his pride in her growth and development is evident. As one of the perks of their job, they've ridden roller coasters together all over the world—almost always by themselves, almost always in the first car. That has helped father and daughter forge a distinctive bond and make countless memories.
Winter is typically a quiet time for amusement parks, but not at PTCI. This is their busiest time as they fill orders for amusement parks preparing for late spring openings. The company's footprint continues to expand beyond roller coaster cars. Keystone Coaster Design, an in-house subsidiary, now specializes in custom wraps for coaster cars.
As PTCI celebrates 120 years in this industry, Tom, Janine, and PTCI are looking forward to creating life-long memories and building thrills for generations to come.
Read more about this fascinating business—and learn which local coaster is Janine's favorite—in The Extra Connection. Click the link below or go to hatfield.org/extraconnection.
