NEMA - National Electrical Manufacturers Association

12/02/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 12/02/2024 11:43

SnapTrack and Beyond: How TechLine Is Shaping Energy Solutions

TechLine Mfg's journey began in the early 1980s, rooted on the Gulf Coast and driven by an entrepreneurial spirit. What started in a garage as a small offshoot of Techline International-a supplier of instrumentation and control components-has grown into a global player in industrial solutions and in the broader electroindustry. Their evolution, from machining small parts for paper mills and the oil and gas industry around Mobile, AL, to designing labor-saving systems for some of the world's largest companies, reflects an unwavering commitment to innovation, adaptability, and customer success.

The company's focus began to shift toward the electroindustry as they began exploring ways to streamline labor-intensive processes. A defining moment came in 2005 when the team started developing SnapTrack, a ventilated cable tray system designed to save time, cut labor costs, and offer a versatile alternative to conduit and traditional channel trays.

Officially launched in 2009, SnapTrack quickly opened doors to new opportunities in the electrical market. TechLine credits much of its success with SnapTrack to its commitment to NEMA standards which provided critical guidelines for ensuring quality and compatibility. "We used the standards as a guideline for developing our product," says Sales Manager Ric Lacey. "They helped us do it the right way."

But SnapTrack is just one of the innovations propelling TechLine forward. The ModRack system, a modular rack solution designed to support industrial enclosures and withstand wind and seismic loads, has added another layer of value to their offerings. Complementing the cable tray systems, ModRack provides ease of installation and significant labor savings-key factors in TechLine's mission to make their customers' jobs easier and more efficient.

That ability to adapt and innovate has allowed TechLine to expand beyond oil & gas, petrochem, and pulp and paper into emerging and diverse industries. SnapTrack has found a home in electric vehicle automotive manufacturing facilities, and the company is exploring opportunities in offshore wind and carbon capture projects. "We've always focused on solving problems for our customers," says Marketing Director Ginger Taylor. "It's about making their jobs easier and more efficient. That's the heart of what we do."

TechLine's growth isn't just about products-it's about people. The company's workforce has doubled in size over the last two years, yet they've managed to retain the culture of a small, close-knit organization. Training plays a central role in their employee experience, with initiatives like lunch-and-learns that introduce staff to the complexities of their diverse industries. Taylor regularly visits local high schools and trade schools, inviting students to tour the facility and consider careers in manufacturing. "Finding skilled workers is a challenge," she says. "But we're investing in people who are eager to learn and grow with us."

Looking ahead, TechLine is focused on expanding its reach. With their headquarters and a manufacturing facility in Spanish Fort, Alabama, and a distribution hub in La Porte, Texas, the company has experienced exponential growth. Their proximity to the Port of Houston has been instrumental, enabling them to support global projects spanning Australia, Latin America, and beyond in collaboration with major engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firms.

As the energy transition reshapes the industrial landscape, TechLine is committed to staying ahead of the curve. By leveraging their expertise, innovative solutions, and customer-first approach, they're poised to tackle the challenges of tomorrow and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of energy infrastructure worldwide.