COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE
Third, fourth and fifth generations of the Betts family are (from left): Ryan Betts (vice president of HR), Charles (Chad) Betts (president), Cliff Betts (former president, current chairman of the Board), Todd Betts (safety manager), Michelle Betts (vice president of Business Development and Marketing), Rodney Betts (former president, former chairman of the Board, current Board member). Seated in front is Richard (Dick) Betts (former president, former chairman of the Board, former Board member). Inset: Jordan Willetts (Business Development manager and sixth generation family member).
‘Do What’s Best’ Legacy Leads to 120 Years of Manufacturing Success Nestled among the scenic fishing spots of the Allegheny River, Warren, Pennsylvania is an outdoorsman’s dream. This picturesque river town surrounded by the hardwood forests of the Allegheny Mountains is part of northwest Pennsylvania’s rich oil and timber heritage and home to some of the region’s longstanding manufacturers, as well. Here, in what could best be described as one of the most beautiful spots in small-town America, is a hidden gem of U.S. industry and innovation, producing parts used around the world. One of the most fascinating of these operations is the sixth generation, family owned Betts Industries, Inc., which is not only one of the area’s oldest manufacturers at 120 years, but also one of its most successful. A highly respected name in the tank truck industry, the company is a leader in the design and production of critical components — valves, manlids, pressure/vacuum relief vents — as well as safety lamps, lighting systems and accessories for multiple liquid tank, dry bulk and industrial applications for more than 2,000 customers and distributors worldwide. In fact, international sales account for 25 percent to 30 percent of Betts’ annual sales. “Betts Industries is a dominant name globally in the areas of valves, manlids and vents,” states President and Chief Executive Officer Chad Betts.
Over the past 120 years, Betts Industries has undergone seven major expansions, growing to occupy 275,371 square feet at its Warren headquarters and 30,000-square-foot Lamp facility in Starbrick. The company first started out on West 4th Street as Fairchild and Betts: Founders and Machinists and moved to its present-day location in the 1940s.
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JUNE 2021 • mbabizmag.com