Thursday, March 14, 2024
Photos by Tom Speicher, writer/video producer (unless otherwise noted)
Vince Wasseluk (at left), Klein Tools creative studio manager, captures the moment when Eric L. Anstadt, instructor of electrical technology/occupations, discovers that he is the first inductee of the Klein Tools Hall of Fame.
Representatives from Klein Tools experienced Penn College’s electrical program on Wednesday, courtesy of Eric L. Anstadt, instructor of electrical technology/occupations.
Anstadt is a longtime advocate for Klein Tools, known by trade professionals worldwide as a premier manufacturer of hand tools. A Corporate Tomorrow Maker, Klein Tools has supported Penn College students and the electrical program with tooling donations and educational discounts.
Kevin Enke, director of digital technology, and Vince Wasseluk, creative studio manager, toured the electrical labs and interviewed several students, as well as Anstadt; Art L. Counterman and Kevin Yokitis, both instructors of electrical technology/occupations; and Loni N. Kline, senior vice president for college relations.
“The big thing here is that students get the personal touch,” remarked Enke. “The students have great relationships with the instructors. I’m also very impressed with the relationships the college has with corporations and how agile the college is in offering what corporations need from graduates.
“With their impressive hands-on education, these students will have no problem finding jobs. It’s great to see them choosing this path as a profession. We want to celebrate that.”
Klein Tools plans to feature the Penn College footage on its website, YouTube channel and social media outlets. The company is building engagement with postsecondary students to combat the skills gap.
During their stay, Enke and Wasseluk surprised Anstadt by presenting him with an engraved glass award, signifying his status as the first person enshrined in the Klein Tools Hall of Fame. Anstadt owns a renowned collection of Klein Tools, spanning from 1897 to today.
“I collect mostly lineman pliers and have around 600 pair,” he said. “I am impressed with the quality of Klein Tools and am happy they are a family-owned and operated American company.”
Anstadt also serves as the Facebook administrator for the Klein Tools Fans Page and the Klein Tools Collectors Group, serving a combined 35,000 members.
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