Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. was established in 1895 in Cleveland, Ohio, by John C. Lincoln, who began by manufacturing electric motors with a modest $200 investment. By 1907, under the leadership of his brother James F. Lincoln, the company introduced its first variable-voltage DC welding machine, ushering in a transformation that led to the founding of the Lincoln Electric Welding School in 1917—an institution that has since trained over 150,000 welders. From early innovations like battery chargers and portable welders, the company steadily expanded its product line to include arc welding systems, cutting equipment, and accessories, establishing a well-regarded reputation for engineering and vocational education.
Building on its core equipment offerings, Lincoln Electric developed a broad portfolio that includes arc welding machines, plasma and oxy-fuel cutting systems, welding consumables, and robotic welding lines. The company operates through multiple business segments—Americas Welding, International Welding, and Harris Products Group—serving customers in more than 160 countries via 42 manufacturing sites and numerous joint ventures. In recent years, it has also ventured into advanced applications, such as hybrid laser welding, CNC cutting tables through acquisitions like Torchmate and Burny Kaliburn, and the development of virtual reality welding trainers that help simulate realistic welding conditions without physical materials.
The company’s commitment to innovation is evident in its consistent development of advanced technologies and equipment. From early variable-voltage welding machines to modern hot-wire laser welding systems and arc-welding automation, Lincoln Electric has pushed the boundaries of metal fabrication . Its Welding School and incentive-based management culture, begun by James Lincoln, created a legacy of skilled labor and employee engagement. The company also engages in strategic acquisitions, including Harris Products Group (2005) for brazing products and more recently investments in automation and consumables to expand its global expertise.
Recent developments include Lincoln Electric’s entry into the EV infrastructure market with its Velion DC fast charger—first shown at CES 2024—and plans for scalable 300 kW charging modules. The firm continues to build on its “Higher Standard 2025” strategy, issuing senior unsecured notes in 2024 to support growth and refinancing, targeting ongoing investment in automation, R&D, and expansion in electrification technologies. With its legacy of technical innovation, vocational training, and new ventures into EV charging and hybrid welding technologies, Lincoln Electric maintains a strong position in the welding and fabrication industries while positioning itself for future industrial transformations.