As part of The Wilkinson Companies’ 75th Anniversary celebration, we’re highlighting three valued manufacturing partners—Autoflame, Limpsfield, and Power Flame—whose products, technology, and support have helped us serve customers throughout New England for decades.
First up Autoflame.
More Than Three Decades of Partnership and Innovation with Autoflame Engineering
Some of the strongest business relationships begin with a simple conversation. For The Wilkinson Companies and Autoflame Engineering, that conversation took place more than 30 years ago—and it sparked a partnership that continues to shape boiler plant efficiency and combustion control technology across North America.
As part of our 75th Anniversary series, we spoke with Steve Kemp, Director of Autoflame Engineering, and Tom Garrett, North American Sales Director, at Autoflame Engineering Ltd. to reflect on how the relationship began, memorable milestones, and what lies ahead.
Where It All Began
According to Steve Kemp, the partnership started in the early 1990s at a Webster Burner sales meeting in Winfield, Kansas.
"We met in the early '90s at a Webster Burner sales meeting in Winfield, Kansas. Geoff Sr. immediately saw the benefits of using the Autoflame system as a retrofit onto existing burners as well as new burners."
Geoffrey C. Wilkinson, Sr.'s vision for advanced combustion controls laid the foundation for what has become one of Autoflame's longest-standing partnerships in North America.
A Partnership Built on Trust
More than three decades later, the relationship remains rooted in shared values.
"Autoflame and Wilkinson's partnership spans more than 30 years and multiple generations, built on deep trust, friendship, and mutual respect. Our hometowns also share strong historical and cultural roots, and both happen to serve fantastic pints of Guinness, making every visit feel that little bit more welcoming."
A Reputation Built on People
When asked what makes The Wilkinson Companies unique, Tom pointed to the consistency of the people behind the company.
"From the outside, I see a highly successful and respected business with a flat management structure. It doesn't matter who I speak to within the organization, I receive the same level of respect, professionalism, and attention. I appreciate that as a manufacturer, and I know your customers appreciate it even more."
That commitment to treating customers, partners, and associates with the same level of respect has been a defining characteristic of The Wilkinson Companies for three generations.
Innovation Through Collaboration
One of the partnership's defining moments came during the first installation of Autoflame's Mk.6 system at Northeastern University.
"The first-ever installation of the MK.6 system at Northeastern University. At this site, we sent the entire R&D team to Boston to work with GT Wilkinson to finalize the development of the first Autoflame UV scanners, which have now been in use for the past 27 years. Certainly a milestone in development for Autoflame."
The project demonstrated how close collaboration between Autoflame and Wilkinson helped advance technology that continues to benefit customers today.
Steve also reflected on one of his favorite memories from the partnership.
"Hosting JR's grandfather, George, and his wife at one of the early Autoflame Christmas parties, hearing George reminisce about his first visit to Europe at 20,000 feet with the USAF flying bombers during the Second World War, inspirational for sure.”
Looking to the Future
When asked what's next for the two companies, Tom and Steve’s answer was simple:
"Another 30 years of growing together, supporting our customers, and building on the strong partnership we've created."
As The Wilkinson Companies celebrates 75 years in business, we're proud to recognize Autoflame Engineering as one of our longest-standing manufacturing partners. Together, we've advanced combustion technology, improved energy efficiency, and built a partnership that continues to benefit customers throughout New England and beyond.
We thank Steve Kemp, Tom Garrett, and the entire Autoflame Engineering team for their friendship, partnership, and continued collaboration. Here's to the next 30 years.