Because Innovation Never Stops

It all started with an idea that sparked an industry...

In 1969, JLG Founder John L. Grove witnessed a fatal scaffolding accident, a moment that changed everything. Inspired to innovate a safer solution for construction crews, this idea led to the development of the first JLG® aerial work platform in 1970, founding the company and pioneering the access industry.

Over 55 years later, Grove's commitment to continuous innovation and safety still drives JLG's advancements. Here's how we've continued to innovate throughout the decades.

1970s

• 1970: JLG manufactures the aerial work platform and changes how the world works. • 1976: JLG's first scissor lift is introduced.

1980s

• 1981: JLG introduces oscillating axles as an option for boom and scissor lifts, improving maneuverability. • 1988: JLG patents the "Extend-A-Reach" feature, giving equipment users greater flexibility for platform placement.

1990s

• 1991: JLG launches the 150HAX, the industry's first 150 ft boom. • 1996: JLG introduces the first mobile vertical lift. • 1999: JLG unveils the only fuel-cell powered boom lift in existence. • 1999: JLG acquires Gradall and adds telescopic material handlers to its product line.

2000s

• 2000: JLG introduces the first 60-ft electric boom lift, an environmentally friendly machine with the industry's greatest reach. • 2001: JLG unveils SkyWelder®, the world's first integrated MEWP welder and other Workstation in the Sky™ accessories. • 2003: JLG acquires Lull® and SkyTrak® to expand its telehandler product line. • 2006: JLG is acquired by Oshkosh Truck Corporation (now known as Oshkosh Corporation). • 2009: JLG introduces the first iteration of ClearSky®, a connected asset-management tool.

2010s

• 2011: JLG launches the 1500SJ, the world's first 150-ft straight boom lift that didn't require a transportation permit for width and height. • 2014: JLG introduces the 1850SJ — the world's largest self-propelled boom lift. • 2015: JLG acquires Power Towers Ltd to strengthen its low-level access lift portfolio. • 2015: JLG redesigns its telehandlers to include options like the industry's first reverse sensing system. • 2016: JLG previews the 1500AJP, the world's tallest articulating boom lift. • 2019: JLG launches its Hi-Capacity HC3™ boom lift line.

2020s

• 2021: JLG launches the world's first all-electric scissor lift, the DaVinci® AE1932. • 2022: JLG revolutionizes the access industry with the 670SJ, the world's first self-leveling boom lift. • 2023: JLG brings ClearSky Smart Fleet, a breakthrough IoT solution, to market. • 2023: JLG acquires Hinowa, adding tracked boom lifts, mini dumpers, lift trucks and undercarriage products to the portfolio. • 2024: JLG acquires AUSA, bringing on wheeled dumpers, rough terrain forklifts and additional telehandler models to the product mix.