Nicopress Marks 125 Years of Engineering Connections That Last
CLEVELAND, Ohio (September 1, 2026) — Nicopress, manufacturer of mechanical and electro-mechanical connectivity solutions, is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2026, recognizing a long legacy of helping customers manage risk through proven products, technical guidance and reliable performance.
Founded in 1901 as The National Telephone Supply Company, Nicopress began during a defining era in American infrastructure, when telephone systems were helping connect communities across the country. As industries evolved, so did Nicopress by expanding its engineering expertise into electric and gas utilities, rail signal systems, material handling, entertainment, aerospace and defense, medical devices and other specialized markets.
“Nicopress has always been about more than the sleeve or tool itself,” said Chris Watkins, vice president. “In the applications we serve, the connection carries real responsibility. The value is not only in what is made, but in the confidence that comes from clear specification support and details that are understood before anything is put into service.”
Throughout its history, Nicopress has developed, patented, refined and adapted technologies to meet the needs of critical industries. Solutions that began in one market have often found purpose in another, demonstrating how the same disciplined approach can continue to solve new problems.
Many Nicopress products are used in places most people will never see, where a single connection can carry enormous responsibility, from ground and aerial distribution support for utility systems, to signal connections along rail corridors, to highly controlled lifting and rigging assemblies. In each scenario, performance is expected for years—and often decades—after installation.
“Much of what we make is going to be in service beyond our lifetimes,” Watkins said. “That reality gives dependability a different meaning for us.”
As Nicopress celebrates 125 years, the company is also focused on the future. Ongoing investments in systems, operations and customer experience are helping improve visibility, efficiency and responsiveness while making practical knowledge easier to access and apply.
“For us, the responsibility does not end with making the connection,” Watkins said. “People need to understand how our sleeves, tools and fittings are designed to work together. Sharing that know-how has always been part of the Nicopress standard, and it will only become more important as the next generation takes on the work.”
To learn more about lasting connections, visit nicopress.com.
About Nicopress
Founded in 1901, Nicopress is a manufacturer of mechanical and electro-mechanical connectivity solutions for wire rope, electrical cable and fiber rope applications. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, the company serves a wide range of critical industries, including utilities, rail, aerospace, defense, entertainment rigging, lifting, industrial, oil and gas, medical and specialty markets. Built on 125 years of engineering know-how, Nicopress continues to help customers create dependable connections for demanding applications.