About Us
From thermostat industry beginnings in Knoxville, Tennessee, we have over 60 years of experience in the industry. Started in 2005, Keystone has grown from a small corner in a local machine shop to a strong, viable company producing our own parts in our own facilities in Vonore, Tennessee.
As we look to the future, we embrace emerging technologies, anticipate industry trends, and continue to adapt to stay ahead of the curve. Our goal is not only to meet the needs of today but also to anticipate the challenges of tomorrow, ensuring that our solutions remain at the forefront of technological advancement.
Whether you’re exploring new possibilities, seeking to enhance operational efficiency, or pushing the limits of engineering innovation, Keystone is here to partner with you every step of the way. Together, we’ll engineer solutions that define the future and elevate your industry. We will open up possibilities.
“He taught me how to take a loss – how to be tough and to move on. He taught me quality – how to measure and troubleshoot and improve. But most of all he taught me how to forgive people. He modeled that.”
– Geoffrey
Ivan Ray Whitehead
Ivan Whitehead, the founder of Keystone Manufacturing and Engineering, embodied the spirit of innovation, integrity, and excellence. A proud graduate of the University of Tennessee with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, his life is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the engineering profession and his family.
In 2002, after a distinguished career at Robertshaw, Ivan recognized a growing need for personalized service and solutions for low-volume clients. This decision led him to establish Keystone Manufacturing and Engineering in 2005. With an expertise in thermal actuators, he set out to create a company that would not only meet but exceed the expectations of its clients.
His story is not just about technical impact but also about the values that shaped his approach to business and life. He imparted three invaluable lessons to his son, Geoffrey—lessons that have become the foundation of Keystone’s culture and success. Through his actions and words, he taught Geoffrey the art of forgiveness, the strength to accept losses gracefully, and the importance of maintaining quality. This philosophy reflects in the core values of Keystone, where excellence in engineering and a commitment to quality are paramount.
Our Values
Our goal is to continue to grow into new markets and industries while maintaining the highest level of excellence in our current product lines and services. By growing our business, Keystone aims to provide employees an improved standard of living each year.
Conservative business practices have allowed us to weather economic slow-downs and quickly respond to growing demand from customers. Due to Ivan Whitehead’s conservative business practices, Keystone has operated as a debt free company since its inception allowing us to stay competitive in the marketplace and not be reactionary to economic downturns. Continual improvements have made our family-owned business better, more efficient, and less costly than other thermostat manufacturers.
All raw materials used at Keystone are exclusively domestic materials Made in America. We are proud to be able to claim that 99% of the parts and material used in their products are Made In America. Additionally, we have in-sourced nearly all parts that were once manufactured by vendors. By investing time and money into equipment and training, we control quality and scheduling.
Our goal is to continue to grow into new markets and industries while maintaining the highest level of excellence in our current product lines and services. By growing our business, Keystone aims to provide employees an improved standard of living each year.
Conservative business practices have allowed us to weather economic slow-downs and quickly respond to growing demand from customers. Due to Ivan Whitehead’s conservative business practices, Keystone has operated as a debt free company since its inception allowing us to stay competitive in the marketplace and not be reactionary to economic downturns. Continual improvements have made our family-owned business better, more efficient, and less costly than other thermostat manufacturers.
All raw materials used at Keystone are exclusively domestic materials Made in America. We are proud to be able to claim that 99% of the parts and material used in their products are Made In America. Additionally, we have in-sourced nearly all parts that were once manufactured by vendors. By investing time and money into equipment and training, we control quality and scheduling.
Keystone is committed to developing and manufacturing custom solutions to client’s thermal actuator needs.
Our Team
At Keystone, our team is the key to our success. Each member brings expertise, dedication, and passion to our mission of delivering custom-engineered solutions that set industry standards for excellence. Our employees’ loyalty and dedication to excellence drive us forward, enabling us to maintain our position as a leader in engineering and manufacturing. Together, we are committed to upholding the values of quality, innovation, and exceptional customer service that define Keystone.
President
Geoffrey Whitehead
Geoffrey Whitehead, the owner of Keystone, has a deep-rooted commitment to innovation, customer service, and employee empowerment. With a Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Tennessee, Geoffrey has over 20 years of experience in manufacturing and engineering, driving Keystone’s mission to deliver exceptional, custom-engineered solutions.
In an era where customer service often seems to be a relic of the past, Geoffrey’s approach is centered around being readily available to clients and finding effective solutions that address their unique needs. His vision is to take the volatility out of business by ensuring that Keystone remains reliable and accessible. This commitment to service is at the core of Keystone and distinguishes the company in a competitive landscape.
Geoffrey is not only focused on client satisfaction but also on fostering a supportive work environment. By recognizing and passing along the achievements of his team, he ensures that every member of the Keystone family contributes to and shares in the company’s collective success.