A.O. Smith timeline
1874 Machine shop founded in Milwaukee by Smith family.
1899 Arthur O. Smith develops first pressed steel automobile frame.
1904 Arthur incorporates A.O. Smith Company in Milwaukee.
1917 A.O. Smith makes bomb casings for war effort, largest bomb maker in U.S. by end of WWI.
1936 Patents first glass-lined water heater, makes hot water affordable convenience for homeowners.
1972 Enters European market.
1995 Extends geographic reach to Asia.
1997 Exits automotive business with sale to Tower Automotive.
2011 Sells electric motor division to Regal Beloit, acquires Lochinvar Corp.
2013 Ajita Rajendra becomes CEO, increases focus on water technology.
