Oatey Co. Has Marked 110 Years of Business
The Cleveland-based manufacturer is celebrating over a century of operations with events throughout October.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Manufacturing
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Oatey Co. has officially reached its 110th anniversary, commemorating more than a century of industrial history. Founded in 1916, the Cleveland-based firm is hosting a month of celebrations to honor its employees and their ongoing contributions.
Why it matters
The milestone highlights the endurance of long-standing manufacturing firms and their role in the regional economy. By focusing on associate development, the company aims to sustain its legacy in an evolving industrial market.
The company has maintained operations for 110 years since its 1916 founding. Additionally, 600 high school students are expected to attend the upcoming STEM-focused manufacturing event.
The players
Oatey Co.
This Cleveland-based manufacturer specializes in plumbing and industrial products with a global operational footprint.
Great Lakes Science Center
This local institution is serving as the host site for the upcoming Manufacturing Day volunteer event.
The details
Oatey began by producing roof flashing and has since expanded to operate facilities across the United States, Canada, Mexico, China, and Europe. In Cleveland, the company continues to utilize its long-standing West 160th Street manufacturing facility while investing in technical training and apprenticeship programs.
Timeline
Oatey Co. was founded in 1916.
The West 160th Street facility opened in 1958.
Anniversary celebrations begin on October 2, 2026.
Monthlong festivities occur throughout October 2026.
Market Landscape
Oatey Co. is aligning its anniversary festivities with the broader industry trend of participating in the National Association of Manufacturers' Manufacturing Day initiatives. This positions the legacy firm as an active participant in regional workforce development efforts.
Local residents and students can expect increased engagement between the manufacturer and the community through educational volunteer events. The company continues to offer technical training and apprenticeship opportunities for those looking to enter the skilled trades.
The takeaway
Oatey Co. demonstrates how legacy manufacturing firms can maintain relevance by balancing historical operational foundations with modern workforce education. Investing in apprenticeship programs serves as a practical blueprint for other regional employers looking to bridge the skilled labor gap.
What happens next
Manufacturing Day events featuring Oatey associates are scheduled to begin at the Great Lakes Science Center on October 2, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the local industrial sector in our Manufacturing section.
More information
For more information about the company and its history, visit the company website.
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Do you trust that long-standing companies in your area prioritize their employees over time?
