Lighting the Past, Leading the Future
Our journey has been defined by a relentless drive to innovate. With every decade, we’ve expanded what’s possible in vehicle lighting—from incandescent to LED to smart adaptive systems—all while staying true to our OEM-focused roots. The future is bright, and we’re just getting started.
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1935
J.W. Speaker Corporation founded by John W. Speaker to manufacture tube & tire repair products -
1940s
Supplied the U.S. Military during World War II, including compact folding stoves and tire repair products; Designed & patented the iconic P-38 can openers and Heatab dry fuel
After the war, shifted focus to manufacturing mirrors and lighting products for trucks and cars -
1960s
John W. Speaker unexpectedly passed away and his son, Jack, became President
Expanded into lighting on original equipment manufacturing (OEM) for lawn & garden and golf & turf tractors -
1980s
Tim & Jamie Speaker, grandsons of the founder John W. Speaker, formally join the company and became Co-Presidents
J.W. Speaker became solely focused on vehicle lighting, growing the business with custom designed lighting for agriculture OEM customers -
1990s
Production on first custom headlamp for Arctic Cat snowmobile began, pushing into the power sport market.
Partnerships with premier OEM customers like Harley-Davidson, U.S. military, and development on custom lighting. -
2000s
First LED light with solid optic technology designed, providing a pathway for future product development
International expansion and growing portfolio of OEM products in the industrial, mining, power sport, and construction markets -
2012
Harnessed experience from OEM products and entered the aftermarket with the first-of-its-kind 7" round LED headlight for Jeeps
Established distribution channels and expanded product portfolio into the aftermarket -
2015
Launched the world's first Adaptive Motorcycle Headlight™ with technology that automatically fills dark areas of the road when cornering on a bike -
2016
Lighting the Way for ARCH’s KRGT-1
Began collaboration with ARCH Motorcycle by supplying the Model 8700 LED headlight for the KRGT-1. This marked the beginning of a shared pursuit of performance, quality, and cutting-edge design between two brands known for pushing boundaries. -
2017
SmartHeat® technology launched in headlights and work lights with integrated lens technology to de-ice lenses, to improve driver visibility and safety -
2020
Low Profile, High Performance: Compact Work Light Series
Launched the first compact work light—the Model 792—marking the beginning of a versatile and stylish lighting line. Designed for OEMs and upfitters facing unique mounting challenges and output requirements, these low-profile, high-performance lights have since expanded into a cohesive family that continues to grow. Combining sleek design with powerful illumination, they offer a unified lighting solution without compromising on style or quality. -
2021
Launched as a breakthrough in forward lighting, the Mosaic Modular Lighting System empowers OEMs to create custom lighting solutions without the burden of tooling costs or extended timelines. With a range of regulation-ready modules, beam patterns, and voltage options, Mosaic offers true design flexibility—delivering “Custom Designs without Custom Costs.” It's a game-changing platform built for adaptability, speed, and style. -
2022
Elevating ARCH with Adaptive Lighting
Improved tehcnology and partnership with ARCH Motorcycle by providing the Adaptive Model 8790 for both the KRGT-1 and the 1-S. This advanced headlight technology delivers superior visibility through dynamic cornering light, enhancing both safety and style on ARCH’s elite machines. -
2023
Advanced Lighting, Classic Builds
Became the proud to be the headlight provider for Velocity Restorations, a leader in expertly crafted classic vehicle builds. The Model 8700 Evo 2 Dual Burn lights up their restored Bronco, Classic Ford F-250, K5 Blazer, and Scout with modern performance and vintage style. For their Classic Ford F-100 and Chevy C10, the Model 8700 Evo 3 delivers the next generation of LED innovation—bringing premium lighting to timeless American icons.
