Our History

WESPEN Founder - B.E. George

WESPEN Audio Visual was founded in 1944.  As a pioneer in the audio-visual industry, B.E. George was among the first to introduce the 16mm projector to  schools, churches and industry in Western Pennsylvania.

World War II was proving the importance of audio-visual training.  The armed forces were producing more films than the Hollywood film industry.  After the war, one of Hitler’s generals said the Allies prevailed because they had training films.

Early in 1948, founder B.E. George’s local newspaper, the Leader-Vindicator, wrote an article, “B.E. George Builds Up Wide Service in Visual Education.”  It portrayed him as a person with vision, who had perceived the growing importance of visual education several years earlier.  At the end of World War II, he received several awards and commendations from the U.S. Treasury Department for showing and distributing 16mm films in behalf of the bond selling activities of its War Finance Program.

Richard George

The firm prospered and B.E. George retired in 1964 and his son, J. Richard George, continued what his father began.  He practiced the same philosophy as his father: “Guaranteed Customer Satisfaction, Quality Products and Discounted Prices.”  He expanded the business by producing a Discount Catalog for direct mailings to potential customers.  Today, WESPEN has satisfied customers in all 50 states.  WESPEN mails over 210,00 Discount Catalogs a year.

WESPEN serves multiple markets throughout the United States.  Clients all over the country equate WESPEN with high quality and support, and applaud the company for its success and longevity.  “We’re told we’re good people, very capable – well trained, working like true partners,” said J. Richard George, who is president and general manager.  Clients include from elementary and secondary schools, churches, hospitals, prisons, small business, industry, law firms, fire/police/ambulance services and the general public.

John George

In 1995, John D. George, son of J. Richard George and grandson of B.E. George, joined the firm.  John applied the new technologies available to continue the tried and true philosophy of his father and grandfather.  “I take this opportunity to thank you for your time and assistance,” wrote a media specialist from the mid-West.  “Over the years of working with various visual companies, I don’t believe I have ever received such knowledgeable and helpful service as I received from you, John, and your company.”

How does a 65+ year old, third generation firm with unshakable values become a leader in presentation products for the national marketplace?  WESPEN Audio Visual Co. has treated each client as being indispensable as relationships are built.  We only recommend quality products and never over sell.  We listen to the customer’s needs and then make recommendations to meet those needs.