Pro Tool Innovation Award Winners: Electrical, Storage, Workwear, Safety
October 20, 2025
For over a decade, the Pro Tool Innovation Awards have been electrifying the scene, showcasing the most groundbreaking products in construction, automotive, and landscaping industries. Now, in the 13th year, Pro Tool Innovation is thrilled to announce that 2025 brought an unprecedented surge of submissions from manufacturers. These trailblazers unveiled jaw-dropping designs, cutting-edge features, and boosted performance that redefine value—proving once again that innovation is alive and thriving.
Whether you’re a skilled tradesperson, a passionate DIY enthusiast, a retailer, or a business owner, cutting-edge tools, accessories, and fasteners can be game-changers. This year’s PTIA Awards proved that manufacturers are charging full speed ahead, inventing bold new categories that stretch the boundaries of software, tech, and battery-powered solutions.
Below is a selection of 2025 Pro Tool Innovation Award Winners tailored to the electrical trade. You can find the full list of winners here.
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing
WINNER – Cable Puller
Greenlee® GX10-MVBA Tugger™
From the manufacturer:
The Greenlee® GX10 Tugger™ builds on Greenlee’s long-standing reputation for delivering the best 10,000-pound cable pullers in the industry. It sets a new benchmark by offering up to twice the pulling speed and a higher continuous pull rating than previous models. The result is faster job completion, improved productivity, and meaningful savings for contractors.
At the core of the GX10 is a durable, UL-approved motor that shifts between two speeds with a simple double tap of the footswitch. This gives the operator precise control during demanding pulls and supports continuous operation. An LED force indicator provides real-time feedback to help prevent damage to cable and equipment, while enhancing operator confidence and safety.
Designed for adaptability, the GX10-MVBA includes the Mobile VersiBoom™, which allows complete setup in under two minutes. It also works seamlessly with existing Greenlee booms, chains, floor mounts, and adapters, reducing the need for additional investments. The compact footprint and multiple mounting options make it a smart solution for a wide range of jobsites, from open areas to tight, confined spaces.
Additional features include a right-angle sheave that keeps the operator safely out of the direct line of pull, and full compatibility with Greenlee’s Pull Connect™ system and new High Performance Rope.
The GX10 doesn’t just boost performance—it helps reduce strain on workers and brings real savings to the bottom line. Based on internal testing, it can save up to $10,000 per year compared to legacy tuggers and up to $5,500 annually when stacked against other models in the market.
WINNER – Cable/Wire Strippers
Ripley Tools US01-7100 Adjustable Cable Stripper
From the manufacturer:
The US01-7100 brings a new level of capability, preparing any covered conductor overhead power lines. Fully hotstick-operable for work on live tree wire or spacer cable, the US01-7100 introduces a range of intuitive features to improve safety and functionality for linemen.
Balanced design and extended hooks to sit comfortably on the cable during adjustments; Oversized eyehook handles for ease of rotation; An innovative jacket-ejecting design to ensure the stripped insulation does not remain on the conductor; Tool rotation and cut direction engravings for first-time user confidence; Simple ring / spiral-cut selector switch sized for a switch stick; Compact total swing radius designed to fit within spacer cable arrangements; Built in spare blade to minimize field downtime.
The US01-7100 builds on the success of Ripley’s earlier US01-7000 hand-turned insulation stripper by incorporating feedback from active and former linemen into every aspect of its design. As covered conductor usage grows, having the right tools to properly prepare the cable becomes critical. The US01-7100 fills that need and ensures linemen are always ready to meet the moment.
WINNER – Cordless Cable/Wire Strippers
Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ Covered Conductor Cable Stripper Kit 2937-21
From the manufacturer:
The M18 FUEL™ Covered Conductor Cable Stripper with Adjustable Bushings is the industry’s first cordless tool optimized for end-stripping insulation on aerial, 600V secondary, and medium-voltage cables, offering an unmatched cable stripping experience. Designed for ultimate versatility, our six adjustable bushings accommodate cable diameters from 0.5″ to 2.1”, eliminating the need for excess accessories while ensuring a clean, precise strip every time. Powered by M18™ FUEL, the cordless stripper removes covered conductor at 1” per second, up to 4X faster than manual tools, boosting efficiency and productivity.
With no exposed blades, this solution significantly reduces the risk of cuts and lacerations, providing a safer way to strip covered conductor. AUTOSTOP™ kickback control prevents over-rotation in a bind-up, while user-controlled speed and optimized max RPMs provide precise control during operation.
Equipped with an adjustable 6” depth gauge for precise strip lengths, the tool eliminates over- or under-stripping and can be removed for extended length applications as needed. Delivering optimized ergonomics, the tool’s pistol-grip design ensures easy maneuverability in tight spaces. POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor delivers more power to handle tough materials in any environment. REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence ensures peak performance while protecting against overload, and ONE-KEY™ delivers easy tracking and tool management.
WINNER – Conduit Bender
IDEAL Guardian™ Bender w/Handle 3/4″ EMT (74-057)
From the manufacturer:
The Guardian™ Conduit Bender from IDEAL Electrical™ provides exceptional conduit bending convenience with its unique set-angle stopper. This built-in feature automatically stops the bender once the conduit reaches the desired angle, preventing over- or under- bending that often requires time-consuming adjustments or even leads to expensive conduit scrap. In a first for the industry, this stopper is seamlessly built into the bender head to eliminate the risk of losing a separate piece. Electricians can easily slide the stopper along the bender head to prepare for a wide range of common bending angles, including 10°, 22.5°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° bends. The machined-in angle locations provide firm stopping points for accurate bends every time.
Beyond the stopper, the 3/4″ EMT Guardian Bender features additional thoughtful upgrades tailored to improve the bending experience. With clearer, recessed markings that wrap around the backside of the head, the bender makes observing the angle during air bends easier. In addition, electricians can use the handle as a straightedge and easily square up when measuring. The dedicated bend correction hole in the head eliminates the need to flip the bender when adjusting, while the high visibility, textured blue handle resists corrosion and enhances grip. The bender head is constructed of rugged ductile iron to provide exceptional durability for a lifetime of use.
The new Guardian Bender builds upon the proven foundation of existing IDEAL Electrical conduit benders used on jobsites worldwide. While it does not replace a specific previous model, it elevates the category by incorporating a range of jobsite-driven enhancements. This combination of precision, ruggedness, and ease-of-use makes the Guardian Bender a valuable solution for both seasoned pros and apprentices still learning to master conduit bending. Using the Guardian Bender, electricians can ensure consistent, professional bends on the first try and reduce rework.
WINNER – Fish Rods/Tape
IDEAL BlueView™ S-Class® Fish Tape (31-661)
From the manufacturer:
The new BlueView™ S-Class® Digital Fish Tape from IDEAL Electrical™ delivers modern convenience to save electricians time when pulling cable on the jobsite. Featuring a real-time BlueView digital length display, this fish tape solves an everyday challenge electricians face: knowing exactly how much tape they’ve deployed or retrieved during cable pulls. BlueView eliminates the frustrating guesswork through a built-in digital screen in the handle that shows the exact amount of tape being fed or retracted. It’s programmed to round up to the nearest foot, preventing wires from being cut short and enabling quick precision. Tested in real-world environments, the industry-exclusive display is built tough and withstands exposure to lubricants, dirt, debris, metal shavings, and extreme temperatures. BlueView can also be easily recalibrated to ensure ongoing accuracy over time, and features auto sleep/shutoff modes to extend battery life. For added convenience, backup batteries can be stored directly in the handle.
The product represents a next-generation upgrade of our popular S-Class Fish Tape. S-Class fish tape features a quality fiberglass core, providing excellent column strength. The core is encased in a durable nylon outer jacket that decreases friction when pulling. Its round shape allows for omni-directional movement, making it well-suited for navigating tough bends. With a pulling strength of 500 lbs., electricians can measure for new runs, identify hangups, and troubleshoot issues with confidence and speed.
For smarter, faster, and easier cable pulls, the new BlueView S-Class Fish Tape combines modern technology with a fiberglass core for exceptional jobsite performance.
Test & Measurement
Winner – Circuit/Wire Tracers
IDEAL Electrical SureTrace™ Circuit Tracer Pro 61-950
From the manufacturer:
The new SureTrace™ Pro Circuit Tracer from IDEAL Electrical™ is a breakthrough in electrical tracing and troubleshooting, delivering first-of-its-kind features that significantly reduce the time and tools required for tracing circuits, identifying faults, and ensuring continuity. Designed for use on energized or de-energized systems up to 600V AC/DC, including 3-phase systems, it’s the most advanced circuit tracing and fault-finding solution available today.
The SureTrace Pro is built for maximum speed, accuracy, and troubleshooting convenience by consolidating the features of multiple meters into one powerful unit. The transmitter measures voltages from 24-600V AC and 12-600V DC, confirms DC polarity, verifies receptacle wiring, and performs patent-pending integrated continuity tests. Features like the built-in continuity tester and exact voltage readings are exclusive to the IDEAL Electrical SureTrace line and empower professional contractors and electricians to lighten their toolbelts by eliminating the need for multiple meters. The receiver provides patent-pending, high-visibility displays that rotate every 90 degrees. Both displays are easy to read in all positions and lighting conditions. The receiver also displays analog and digital signal strength alongside battery and sensitivity levels. With integrated non-contact voltage testing (NCVT), a work light, and adjustable audio settings, the SureTrace Pro is packed with features that improve usability in real-world jobsite conditions.
One of the most groundbreaking inclusions in the SureTrace Pro kit is the new, patent-pending SureTrace Inductive/Sensing Clamp. The innovative clamp induces a tracing signal by clamping around conductors at any point in their run, enabling non-contact circuit tracing and AC amperage measurement simultaneously. The clamp is ideal for jobs where conductors are inaccessible or direct circuit connections are not possible or safe. Rated CAT III 600V, the clamp delivers accurate AC amperage readings up to 600A. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery is integrated directly into the clamp housing, eliminating the need for separate battery packs or cords. The Inductive/Sensing Clamp also includes dual high-visibility displays, including a patented TightSight™ secondary display, to make readings easy to view in any position. The new clamp is backwards compatible with any previous IDEAL Electrical SureTrace circuit tracer.
Winner – Multimeters
Fluke 283 FC True-RMS CAT III 1500 V Digital Multimeter and Wireless Current Clamp
As solar energy continues to expand globally, technicians face unique challenges—including increasing system voltages, complex PV installations, and the need to perform diagnostics safely and efficiently in high-risk areas. The Fluke 283 FC and a283 FC directly address these needs through a powerful combination of safety, precision, portability, and smart connectivity, all built into tools designed specifically for the demands of utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) work.
At the heart of this innovation is the Fluke 283 FC Solar Digital Multimeter, which features a CAT III 1500 V / CAT IV 1000 V safety rating—meeting the needs of modern PV arrays that routinely operate at higher voltages. Technicians can now work confidently when testing panels, strings, combiner boxes, or inverters, using Staubli MC4-compatible leads and high-voltage silicone test leads for secure, reliable, and fast connections.
Complementing the multimeter is the a283 FC Wireless Current Clamp, which introduces True-RMS AC/DC current measurement up to 60 A with a slim, non-contact design. Its thin jaw is tailored for tight, confined spaces common in solar combiner boxes, and its wireless connectivity enhances safety by enabling remote measurements without handling live conductors—greatly reducing arc flash risk and technician exposure.
Together, the 283 FC and a283 FC form a synchronized, dual-measurement system that allows simultaneous readings of current and voltage, with automatic VA power calculations—streamlining workflows and eliminating the need to reposition tools. This innovative pairing saves time, boosts field productivity, and ensures accurate data capture without interrupting testing.
Tool Bags & Storage
Winner – Mobile
Milwaukee PACKOUT™ Rack 48-21-8000
PACKOUT™ Rack is part of the most versatile and durable modular storage system, delivering ultimate PACKOUT™ access and organization with sliding drawers that allow access to storage without unstacking.
With the ability to fully customize the drawer layout, all PACKOUT™ components connect to the drawers and can fit inside the PACKOUT Rack. This solution can stack and expand across a wall to accommodate the needs of any fleet, jobsite, or shop. Stack up to three Racks high on the PACKOUT™ Rack frame or place an individual Rack on a flat surface and tether to a wall. Our PACKOUT™ Modular Storage System continues to drive productivity by making it easier to maximize storage space and stay organized with over 125 solutions.
For those looking to outfit a van or work truck with storage that both organizes and protects, the Milwaukee Packout Rack stands out as a notable contender in the modular storage market. The sliding drawers let users access stored items without needing to unstack components. The customizable drawer layout lets you use any number of Packout boxes and organizers, letting you custom-tailor the Rack to your specific trade or application. Up to three racks can be stacked, or you can secure them to a wall to get the maximum vertical storage space.
Winner – Modular
Makita MAKTRAK Modular Storage T-90009
MAKTRAK™ is the Next Generation in Modular Storage Systems.
Makita’s Maktrak offers several truly innovative advantages for portable modular jobsite storage. First, it uses a horizontal design, letting you store larger tools but also facilitating easier loading and unloading from truck beds. The dual-hinging lid allows easy access to any case from either side—and without the hassle of unstacking. The organizers also work to keep items separated without reducing the overall storage volume. Maktrak is also designed and manufactured by Makita in the U.S.A.
MAKTRAK™ has a range of unique features, including a horizontal design that redefines the category and offers users the category’s most efficient loading and unloading in and out of a truck bed. This is an important point of difference over common vertical designs — and is in response to current user challenges observed in the field.
MAKTRAK™ is driven by four core functions: 1) TRANSPORT: Premium handle with Gecko Grips™ provides efficient loading and unloading in a truck bed. 2) ACCESS: Horizontal dual-hinging lid allows access to any case without unstacking or interference from the handle. 3) STORE: Horizontal design provides wider interior space for larger tools and accessories. 4) ORGANIZE: Customizable with lid mounting points, molle panel dividers, nested bins and battery/charger storage trays. MAKTRAK™ is designed, engineered, and manufactured in the U.S.A. with global materials.
Winner – Truck Boxes
Weather Guard XTS Expandable Truck System
The WEATHER GUARD® XTS (Expandable Truck System) is the first fully modular truck cap system built to meet the evolving demands of professional tradespeople and fleet operators. Setting a new standard for traditional truck caps, WEATHER GUARD XTS introduces an industry-first innovation system and scalable design that delivers unmatched flexibility, productivity, and advanced security to protect tools and materials.
While the truck cap category has grown, innovation has stalled and is saturated with incremental improvements and lookalikes. WEATHER GUARD XTS sets a new standard. It is designed for modern pros who need their truck to do it all. The smart, scalable system gives pros their truck beds back, without sacrificing the security or organization they depend on.
At the core of the WEATHER GUARD XTS is a retractable roof system, a breakthrough innovation that transforms the cap from a closed, secure workspace into an open cargo area capable of hauling oversized equipment or fitting a full standard pallet (48″ x 40″) directly into the truck bed. This allows users to transport tall or bulky items without removing the cap or using a second vehicle. This dual-function design, combined with a sliding ladder rack and customizable components, allows users to seamlessly switch between secure storage and open transport without sacrificing truck bed utility.
The XTS system includes a durable, structural mounting frame designed to support six primary configurations. Key modular components – including hi-side toolboxes, side access doors, retractable covers, and safari racks – can be added or removed as job needs change. Each module is engineered to integrate effortlessly with WEATHER GUARD’s existing solutions, including the Pack Rat® roll-out storage systems.
Winner – Organizers
RYOBI STM313K LINK SlotBox Organizer Kit
The RYOBI LINK Modular Storage System is revolutionizing the storage industry, enabling you to Organize, Access and Transport your life. The RYOBI LINK SlotBox Organizer Kit is designed with customization in mind, featuring a SlotBox Receiver, a Medium SlotBox Organizer and two Low-Profile SlotBox Organizers. The receiver keeps all organizers in one place and can be conveniently stored on a LINK Wall Rail, or brought on the go on a LINK mobile stack. When in a stack, the organizers can be accessed from the left or right sides, allowing you to reach for tools and small parts, without having to take the stack apart. Secure your organizers in the receiver with integrated lock.
The SlotBox Organizers can also be placed individually on a LINK Wall Rail. The included organizer divider sets provide maximum organization, keeping small parts in their place. Durable impact resistant material and IP54 rating protect your items from drops, water and dust. Easily identify what’s inside each organizer with clear tops. Expand on your SlotBox Organizer Kit with additional SlotBox Organizers, sold separately. The receiver can also hold 2 Medium Organizers or 4 Low-Profile Organizers, to fit your project needs. Best of all, it is part of the RYOBI LINK Modular Storage System line of products that use the same locking technology to seamlessly connect your mobile and stationary storage needs. Own your space with RYOBI LINK Modular Storage System. This kit includes (1) Slotbox Receiver, (1) Medium SlotBox Organizer, (2) Low-Profile SlotBox Organizers and Dividers.
From Pro Tools:
One of the most challenging aspects of bringing organizers to the jobsite is accessibility. Ryobi’s LINK Modular Storage System solves at least some of the hassle by providing a side-oriented solution that lets you remove organizers from either side of a stacked loadout. Additionally, the clear tops facilitate quick identification of contents, while the customizable dividers give you complete flexibility over organization. The SlotBox Organizer Kit features a SlotBox Receiver that stores almost any combination of single-height and dual-height organizers. With impact-resistant materials and an IP54 rating, you know this set will have the jobsite durability you need. Overall, it’s a thoughtful, well-built design that stands out as something anyone on the Ryobi Link platform will want to begin using immediately.
Hand Tools
WINNER – Carts
WORKPRO 3-Tier Collapsible Service Cart
From the manufacturer:
WORKPRO 3-Tier Collapsible Service Cart is a new foldable cart with a streamlined structure and user-friendly design, engineered to address the structural complexity and high production costs of traditional folding carts.
This cart innovates beyond existing technologies by incorporating a press block and positioning pins that engage with either the primary or secondary locating holes. This mechanism enables seamless transition between the cart’s folded and deployed states. To toggle states, simply depress the press block, allowing the form-stabilizing slider to glide along the guide rod, thereby activating the cart’s folding/deployment function. The collapsible service cart is ready to use straight out of the box; simply unfold it according to the instructions, saving you time and effort.
The portable service cart measures 24″ x 17-3/8″ x 34-7/8″ and each shelf has a load capacity of 70 lbs, providing ample storage space for storing tools, equipment, files, dishes, snacks, and more. When folded, it is only 5-1/2 inches thick, making it easy to store in a corner or closet, saving space.
WINNER – Utility Knives
Klein Tools FLICKBLADE™ 2-in-1 Utility Knife / Scraper with Blade Storage
From the manufacturer:
The Klein Tools 2-in-1 Utility Knife / Scraper is built for versatility, seamlessly switching between a utility knife and scraper for cutting and scraping tasks. It features two locking positions, angled for specialized tasks or standard for everyday cutting, ensuring optimal control and accuracy. With a durable aluminum body, built-in blade storage, three high-quality carbon steel blades, and compatibility with universal blades, it offers lasting performance and convenience. Separate blades for both the knife and scraper guarantee clean and scratch free scraping.
WINNER – Levels
LevTech Mag Dog 8 Conduit Bending Level
From the manufacturer:
The Mag Dog® 8 Conduit Bending Level delivers industry-first innovation that redefines precision, efficiency, and ease-of-use for conduit installation professionals. Purpose-built for electricians and pipefitters, this tool offers advanced features that directly solve longstanding jobsite challenges.
At the heart of the Mag Dog® 8 is its Utility Patented Embedded Thumbwheel Screw System, designed to securely hold onto both ENT and rigid conduit of various diameters. The thumbwheel features concave and convex surfaces, allowing it to automatically contour to the pipe’s shape for a rock-solid grip. This allows tradesmen to perform bends as a true one-person operation, eliminating the need for a second set of hands — greatly improving jobsite efficiency and safety.
The Mag Dog® 8 also features its Utility Patented Ball Bearing Point System, offering fixed point angle settings at 0°, 15°, 22.5°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°. This system provides repeatable, precise bends without guesswork, minimizing rework and wasted materials while maximizing accuracy and productivity.
In addition, the Mag Dog® 8 includes a Utility Patented Field-Replaceable Vial System. The vial can be easily removed and replaced onsite with a flathead screwdriver, eliminating downtime from damaged vials. Each purchase includes an extra replacement vial, ensuring professionals always have a fully functional tool when needed. For added versatility, the level incorporates 4 Xtreme Rare Earth Magnets embedded into the bottom. These powerful magnets deliver unmatched holding force on metallic surfaces, allowing for hands-free operation on steel conduit, panels, or equipment — even in vertical or overhead applications. This secure magnetic grip ensures maximum stability during measurements and alignment.
Unlike many levels with limited viewing angles, the Mag Dog® 8 features a precision vial readable from three sides, allowing for quick viewing from multiple positions while minimizing repositioning. The Mag Dog® 8 is backed by a Lifetime Warranty, reflecting confidence in its craftsmanship, durability, and long-term performance. Professionals can invest with complete peace of mind, knowing it’s built to withstand years of demanding field use.
WINNER – Tape Measures & Rulers
Crescent SHOCKFORCE NITE EYE™ 25′ Tape Measure
From the manufacturer:
Introducing the Crescent SHOCKFORCE Tape Measure, featuring Crescent’s NITE EYE™ Technology for market leading visibility, even in low light conditions. The all-new STABLEWING blade shape provides 17 ft of stable reach, reduced blade roll-over, and a flatter profile for easier marking. The 3X clear-coated blade and mylar coating on the first 6 inches provides protection against wear and tear. These features are housed in an impact-resistant case that has been drop-tested 120 ft to withstand even the toughest of jobsite conditions, making SHOCKFORCE the ultimate tape for tradesmen.
WINNER – Nut Drivers
Klein Tools 32914HD 14-in-1 Impact-rated Flip Socket Set
Klein Tools introduces the innovative 14-in-1 Impact Rated Flip Socket, a solution for professionals who demand versatility and efficiency. This design features two sets of flip sockets where one set can be stored entirely inside the handle, eliminating the need for multiple tools. Fully impact-rated for use with impact drivers, this socket set includes 6 SAE sizes and 6 Metric sizes, plus a bit holding feature.
WINNER – Pliers
KNIPEX 87 51 180 Cobra ES Pliers
From the manufacturer:
Reach where the other tools can’t with the Cobra ES pliers! Longer and more narrow jaws compared to standard Cobra® pliers. Front gripping serration for round parts such as screws, bolts and wire rope. Groove near the tip for holding nails, pins and bolts. Slim head and joint construction allow for easy access to hard to reach areas. Ideal for service and maintenance, equipment repair, automotive and general industry.
Firm grip on flat material due to three-point contact. Adjustment at the touch of a button directly on the workpiece. 18 fine adjustments for optimum adaptation to different size workpieces and a comfortable gripping position. Self-locking on pipes and nuts, no slipping off the workpiece and low hand force required. Durable construction due to box-joint design. Reliable catching of the hinge bolt with no unintentional shifting. Pinch guard prevents operators’ fingers being pinched. Forged from high-grade chrome vanadium electric steel, oil-hardened.
