This year (2017) marks the 70th anniversary of ETCO Inc., our first Global Technology Partner. A partnership that spans three generations on the ETCO side, two with WPS. If you have not read our interview with John Stiness, VP of Sales, it can be found here. In recognition of this event, I thought it would be appropriate to document our journey with ETCO though more than half of the 70 years ETCO has been around.
Our connection with ETCO began several years before WPS even existed. The founder of WPS Jim Curtis, started working with the previous ETCO representative in 1973. During those years, Jim spent a considerable amount of time working with existing ETCO accounts and developing new relationships.
In 1978, Jim formed James Curtis and Associates (JC&A) and the Wire Process Specialties name was born. JC&A was awarded the representation of ETCO in Canada (known at the time as Electric Terminal Corporation).
From this time through to 1992, JC&A and ETCO built up a local Canadian division to manufacture and distribute terminals. In 1982, our first stamping press was delivered and we commenced producing terminals. For the next 10 years, we jointly grew our customers and supply of terminals across the country using our manufacturing and distribution system. A number of those customers still exist today and continue to purchase items that we produced back then.
In 1992, with new trade agreements between countries still fresh and the reality of tariff elimination in the future, the local division was consolidated into other ETCO divisions. But the relationship between WPS and ETCO continued. From the early 90’s until 2006, WPS grew the WireProcess brand name, adding complimentary lines but with ETCO as one of the flagship relationships.
In 2006, the mantle was passed to me (Terry Curtis) and I took on the responsibility to manage the relationships that have grown over the previous three decades. With solid mentor-ship built up over 25 years of service and a vision for the next stage of the company, I took on this responsibility knowing the challenges behind us and preparing for those before us. And with a resolve to see the company evolve as business conditions changed.
Some years were hard and challenges were tough to face and get through. But with every situation we encountered, the company grew stronger and I am anticipating the next stage in WPS’ journey.
With ETCO into it’s third generation and WPS into it’s second, I pause to recognize the relationships built up over these years. Solid working relationships and friendships that stand the test of time. I also remember those associates, friends that have passed on. Their legacy within ETCO are part of the building blocks of where the company is today.
So to ETCO I say Happy 70th Anniversary. I am proud to be called an ETCO representative. I believe we are always stronger when relationships run deep. In ETCO’s case and by extension our other partners, our solid business relationships mean our customers get the best of all of us. And that is a solid win for everyone.
Connect Your Way with WPS to start a dialog on your terminal requirements.
Terry Curtis
President, WireProcess Specialties a division of TJ Curtis Technologies Inc.
