Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW) designs and produces an array of highly engineered fasteners and components, equipment and consumable systems, and specialty products and equipment for customers around the world. A Fortune 200 diversified manufacturing company with more than 90 years of history, ITW's 750 decentralized business units in 49 countries employ nearly 55,000 men and women who are focused on creating value-added products and innovative customer solutions.

During its nearly 100 years of existence, ITW's recipe for success has been focused on creating value-added products for key customers around the world. We do this by growing our business and making acquisitions that provide additional product solutions to our customers. We invite you to learn more about the history of our company.

The beginning
In 1912, on the eve of World War I, Chicago financier Byron L. Smith placed an ad seeking an investment opportunity for “a growing manufacturing business.” Four men answered: Frank W. England, Paul B. Goddard, Oscar T. Hogg and Carl G. Olson. Together, these forward-thinking businessmen formed a company to manufacture and sell metal-cutting tools.

The company expands its original metal cutting tool products to include truck transmissions, pumps and other items for America’s World War I effort.

The genesis of Signode, which later joins ITW, begins with John (Jack) W. Leslie’s investment in a company that incorporates coil steel strap and seals for packaging containers and products.

The DeVilbiss family works diligently to combine an adjustable atomizer with a spray gun. Their innovation results in the development of spray finishing for the application of paint. DeVilbiss later becomes a significant portion of ITW’s business.

C.C. Hobart and his sons, Edward A. and William H., incorporate Hobart Brothers Company, another business that will later be acquired by ITW. Initially, the company will market a battery charger.

At Illinois Tool Works Inc. a diverse workforce is the cornerstone of our success. We believe the unique perspectives and innovative ideas that result from different cultures, backgrounds, genders and races combined with teamwork produce optimal results. Our commitment to an inclusive environment is evident throughout our organization from the Board of Directors and CEO extending throughout every aspect of our businesses.

Diverse view points, open communications and inclusion results in customer satisfaction, valued employees, rewarding vendor partnerships and greater return on investment to our shareholders.

Our mission includes attracting and retaining a diverse workforce. Our outreach is focused to attract individuals who are willing to contribute their unique perspectives and creativity to the attainment of the company's goals and objectives. We foster inclusive environments where everyone is comfortable expressing their ideas and doing their best. Our open door policy invites communication and is designed to give our employees a sense of belonging.

ITW employees earn a competitive salary. In addition, ITW offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to help employees care for themselves and their families and plan for the future.

We recognize the men and women of ITW as well-rounded individuals with a broad range of interests. We encourage our employees to pursue community involvement opportunities, educational endeavors and other activities in order to fulfill their personal and professional goals and objectives.

ITW remains committed to a culture of diversity that reflects the communities in which we live and do business. Our goal is to foster an inclusive environment where differences are respected and appreciated and all employees are encouraged to do their best work and contribute to their full potential to help us achieve business goals and deliver customer service excellence.