For more than 40 years, Illinois Blower has been a leader in developing and producing the finest fans and blowers. What started in one man’s garage has blossomed into a manufacturing leader, which many of the world’s largest companies depend upon.
William Howarth Sr. is fired from his job. He’s left a note at the desk of his hotel while vacationing in Jamaica.
William starts his own company out of his home. He gets his first order the same year, calling a former client who manufactures large ovens.
During the 1980s, the company sees impressive growth, becoming a premium provider for the power industry, among other industries, with an emphasis on custom fans and blowers.
The company moves from its first location in North Barrington to a larger, 90,000 sq. ft. building in Cary, Illinois.
Patents the IBI Uniblock® Bearing, designed to handle high speeds and relatively light loads
Tyler Barth, William Howarth’s stepson, joins the team after graduating from the Air Force Academy and earning his MBA at Boston College while serving in the Air Force.
Jim Johnson joins Illinois Blower in the sales department.
Tyler Barth buys the company from his stepfather.
Always watching for new innovations and trends, Tyler Barth steadily grew the company over the next two decades, increasing staff, acquiring companies and adding new products to the Illinois Blower portfolio.
Illinois Blower purchases a spare parts company to further expand its offerings.
Tyler Barth’s wife, Carolena Barth, joins the company as HR Director and Tyler’s business partner.
Illinois Damper, Inc. opens.
Tyler Barth passes away. Carolena Barth takes over as CEO. Jim Johnson is named President.
Together as CEO and President, Carolena and Jim—along with the IBI family—continue their commitment to exceptional customer service, product innovation and dedication to continued growth as the industry leader in custom, quality blowers and fans.
We’re fortunate to be guided by experienced, knowing leadership, and an exceptional team of engineers and welders.
Are you driven to succeed? Do you embrace challenges and opportunities? We’re always looking for sales reps interested in bringing custom, high-quality solutions to their customers. Plus, experienced engineers, welders and others who are eager to embrace new challenges and opportunities.
750 Industrial Dr., Ste. E
Cary, IL 60013
Ph: 847.639.5500
Toll Free: 1.888.639.FANS
When others can’t, Illinois Blower can. Call us when your clients face the most demanding applications.