Tools with big impacts: New tech and trade pro support

By Jesse Sanchez.

New products, trade programs and national contests bring innovation and inspiration to contractors.

In this episode of MetalTalk™, hosted by Karen Edwards, Rebecca Talbot of Malco Tools dives into more topics than just hardware — she brings listeners up to speed on new innovations, smarter tool design and the company's growing support of the various trade communities. While much of the conversation covers Malco’s versatile drivers and fasteners, the episode ends with a rich discussion about brand-new product lines, career development initiatives and the future of the skilled trade workforces.

One of the standout announcements is the launch of Malco’s Seven-in-One C-RHEX Flip, a multi-use service tool with stacked socket sizes and a built-in driver. On its remarkable engineering, Rebecca notes, “We tested these with all the different ways of application. Just shaking it really hard, hitting it with another tool, throwing it onto the ground,” to ensure maximum socket retention and field reliability. Each socket securely stacks to avoid job site losses — one of those small details that makes a big difference to pros in the field.

Also new to their lineup is a sausage-style caulking gun and longer AV snips designed for extended cuts. The caulking gun was built with colder climates in mind and features ergonomic improvements for all-season use. While the tools speak to Malco’s innovation, the company is equally committed to the people using them.

Rebecca highlights Malco’s Head of the Class program, which equips trade school students with starter tools and the Trade-Pro of the Year award, which will relaunch in early 2025. “We want to recognize people that are in their field,” Rebecca says. “Really it’s about making sure we talk about and keep these trade pros top of mind.”

Adding to the excitement is Malco’s sponsorship of the Elite Trade Pro competition, now featured on CBS Sports. Rebecca called the televised event “a big live contest” where top apprentices compete for $20,000 in prizes using Malco tools.

To experience Malco’s tools firsthand, Rebecca encourages contractors to visit their booths at industry shows like METALCON and AHR Expo. She notes, “These are some really impressive tools.”

Read the transcript, Listen to the conversation or Watch the webinar to learn more about Malco’s latest tool innovations, trade pro recognition programs and how they’re bringing national spotlight to skilled contractors through televised competitions and hands-on industry events.