Our Family
Our Company
Established in 1966, Actco Tool & Manufacturing Company is a family-owned and operated company based in Meadville, PA. We are committed to excellence in the provision of knowledge, expertise, and quality in the manufacture of custom machine parts and tools. All our products are proudly made in the United States of America.
Our Leadership
1st Generation
After 8 years of honorable service with the United States Navy, Robert Gruber went on to work at Talon, Inc. During his 10 years at Talon, Robert earned his apprenticeship certification in Tool & Die and was recognized for his performance by being awarded "Outstanding Apprentice of the Year" by the Pennsylvania Manufacturing Association in 1958.
In 1954 Glenn Canfield apprenticed to become a tool and die maker at Layke Tool & Die in Meadville where he worked for 4 years. He then was employed by Talon, Inc. in Meadville from 1959 until 1961. In 1966 he co-founded Actco Tool & Manufacturing company. In 1995 he co-founded Actco Metrology Services in Meadville.
2nd Generation
Under the leadership of Dennis Heffern and Robert Gruber II, Actco Tool became certified suppliers and received vendor performance awards from many clients. In 2015, Actco Tool was recognized for it's 45 years of membership within the National Tooling & Machining Association. During this period, Actco Tool supported the NTMA's Apprenticeship Program collborating with manufacturing partners to promote a more vibrant economy and employment opportunities within the local community.
3rd Generation
Tara Heffern, Dana Gruber and Trevor Heffern have many years of combined experience in the industry which they have gained from the ground floor up. They know the critical nature of the industry to deliver services consistently, on time, and within spec. Actco Tool prides itself on our proof positive commitment to be your dependable supplier.
"I just wanted to say WOW, do those parts look amazing. Everyone here was admiring the work and care you guys took, everything from machining to packaging. Very Professional. Thank you for the great work."
“You guys will always be on the top of our vendor list, you do awesome work.”
“Your team deserves some praise for their quality craftsmanship and professionalism. You did some gages for us recently and they were beautiful. Well done by your team. Appreciate all you guys do for us.”
“Thank you for your faithful, and dependable service and support. I am so glad I can count on you!”
“If I had 100 Actcos my life would be much easier. Nice work, thanks for the attention and quick response!”
“Your team deserves some praise for their quality craftsmanship and professionalism. You did some gages for us recently and they were beautiful. Well done by your team. Appreciate all you guys do for us.”
"We believe in collaborating with our local manufacturing partners to promote a more vibrant economy."
Tara’s grandfather followed by her father, were successful by listening to customer’s needs and delivering upon their promises. She carries on that same tradition of commitment today by ensuring a company culture that fosters those same attributes. As the leader of Actco Tool & Mfg Co, Tara inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more.
Our Company
Established in 1966, Actco Tool & Manufacturing Company is a family-owned and operated company based in Meadville, PA. We are committed to excellence in the provision of knowledge, expertise, and quality in the manufacture of custom machine parts and tools. All our products are proudly made in the United States of America.
to Evolve
With a wide clientele of companies here and abroad, we continue to evolve as a builder of handcrafted mechanical parts and tools. Our large-scale manufacturing facility has dedicated employees providing their expertise in design, engineering, and machining. As part of the company's efforts to further enhance the tool and die industry, we offer on-the-job training to motivated individuals eager to expand their knowledge and skills in the trade.
Combined Industry Experience
A pillar in the tool and die industry, Actco Tool & Manufacturing Company is helmed by third-generation leaders Tara Heffern, Dana Gruber, and Trevor Heffern. We combine more than 70 years of experience with our shared vision of merging technology and design thinking creativity to meet the industry’s most critical needs. As service providers, we focus on:
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Accuracy and Precision
- Industrial Sustainability
- High-Quality Products
- Timely Deliveries
