LAUREL, MT — Wood’s Powr-Grip (WPG), a U.S. manufacturer of tools and equipment for handling glass and other materials, is marking its 60th year in business in 2024.

The company was incorporated in 1964 by Howard Wood. At the time, the Navy veteran had owned and operated an engine repair shop in Wolf Point, MT, for more than 15 years. Howard’s affinity for mechanical problem-solving sparked his first invention: a tool that held motor valves in place during checking and refitting. This “lapping” tool used vacuum in a way that revolutionized auto engine repairing. More importantly, it pointed Howard toward his next invention: The handheld vacuum cup for handling glass. The popularity of the hand cup, as well as the valve grinder, quickly led to the founding of WPG.