“Generations of Excellence.”
September 20, 1949
The first “Clemco” blast machine, later gold-plated to honor the memory of our founder Al Cleary, and today is on display in the worldwide corporate headquarters in Washington, MO.
Clemco traces its roots back to a small rental business in San Francisco, founded in 1941 near the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf. Initially focused on abrasive blasting equipment, the company gained hands-on experience buying, renting, and repairing pressure vessels. That expertise led to the creation of a superior design—the industry’s first pressure vessel with an inverted dome. To mark this innovation, the "Clemco" brand was officially established on September 20, 1949, with the filing of its trademark. The name derives from the rental business, the Clementina Company.
In its early years, Clemco concentrated on providing rugged, reliable blast machines tailored for industrial cleaning and surface preparation. As post-World War II industries expanded, so did the need for effective corrosion control, positioning Clemco as a rising leader in abrasive blasting.
The 1950s and 1960s saw significant growth, with Clemco introducing blast cabinets, portable machines, and innovative control systems. Its reputation for durability and engineering excellence made it a preferred supplier in shipbuilding, construction, and manufacturing sectors. During this time, the company also began expanding internationally, establishing partnerships and subsidiaries in Europe and Asia.
Over the following decades, Clemco continually adapted to emerging technologies and industry demands. Its product line grew to include advanced safety gear, dust collection systems, and automated blasting solutions. Today, Clemco is a globally recognized brand—trusted for its blend of traditional craftsmanship and forward-thinking innovation, all in service of high-performance surface preparation.
“Service and People”
Al Cleary, the founder of Clemco Industries Corp., was a visionary entrepreneur whose leadership and dedication transformed a small equipment rental business into a global leader in abrasive blasting technology.
After serving as a U.S. Navy officer during World War II, Cleary joined the Clementina Company in San Francisco in the late-1940s. Initially, Clementina focused on renting equipment to contractors, including portable air compressors and sandblast machines. Recognizing the challenges associated with maintaining rental equipment, Cleary advocated for manufacturing their own blasting machines. In 1949, Clementina produced its first blast machine, marking a significant shift from equipment rental to manufacturing.
Cleary's business philosophy centered on two core principles: "service" and "people." He believed that exceptional customer service and treating everyone with respect were fundamental to business success. He emphasized, "There is only one word in the rental business—and that is service."
Under Cleary's leadership, the company expanded its operations and product offerings. In the mid-1950s, the name "Clemco" was introduced, derived from "Clementina," to be the brand of the company's manufacturing division. By 1960, Clemco became a separate entity focused on producing blasting equipment. Cleary's commitment to innovation and quality established Clemco as a trusted name in the industry.
Al Cleary passed away in 1992, but his legacy endures through the Clemco Way of continued emphasis on service, people, and innovation. His leadership laid the foundation for a company that remains a global leader in surface preparation solutions.
Carrying the Torch:
The Cleary Family Legacy at Clemco
For more than 75 years, the Cleary family has upheld the founding principles established by Al Cleary when he launched Clemco in 1949: unwavering service to customers and a deep commitment to people. What began as a bold entrepreneurial endeavor in San Francisco has grown into a globally respected name in surface preparation—driven forward by the enduring leadership and stewardship of the Cleary family.
Today, Board Members Joe Cleary, Karen Cleary, John Cleary, and Sean Cleary continue to champion the original vision. They remain faithful to the human-centered philosophy that has defined Clemco across generations, ensuring the culture remains grounded in humility, resilience, and customer-first thinking—even as the company adapts to a fast-changing industrial landscape.
Their focus is clear: sustain long-term growth by placing people at the core of every decision. From nurturing internal talent and strengthening a collaborative environment to reinforcing personal, accountable service standards, the Clearys uphold values that are both timeless and urgently relevant.
As new market challenges and emerging opportunities arise, the Cleary family reinforces a longstanding tradition of integrity with a constant drive for improvement. They work to align modern operations with founding ideals—bridging past and future with clarity, courage, and consistency.
Through their leadership, the entrepreneurial spirit that launched Clemco continues to thrive. Innovation is embraced, while the original promise remains unchanged: serve customers with care, and treat people with dignity and respect.
In doing so, the Clearys have not only protected the family’s legacy—they have amplified it. Clemco continues to operate as a proudly family-driven company with a global presence, trusted by customers worldwide and committed to delivering lasting value for generations to come.
Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1949
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Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1949
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Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1949
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Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1949 • Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1949 • Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1949 •
