Our Story
Origin Story
In 1954, our founder Chand Tarneja embarked on his career in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), India, joining a manufacturing company specializing in hot rolled steel windows and doors. Initially serving as a sales agent, Chand immersed himself in every facet of the industry, accumulating knowledge and expertise over the next 14 years.
In 1966, Chand and his family relocated to Ontario, Canada. Carrying his passion and insights for the window and door business, Chand laid the foundation for a new chapter in his career.
By 1972, Chand took the bold step of establishing his own venture, Chand Tarneja Windows (CTW), leveraging his accumulated skills and insights. With a focus on innovation, Chand pioneered new products rooted in his expertise with hot rolled steel windows and doors. CTW swiftly gained recognition as a locally esteemed manufacturer, securing contracts for prominent architectural projects across Ontario, including the Parliament Buildings, Toronto City Hall, York University, and various University of Toronto initiatives.
A Legacy of Family Ownership
Expanding on his father's legacy, Sunil Tarneja joined CTW in 1982, furthering the family's commitment to steel window and door manufacturing. Responding to industry shifts such as the oil crisis and the growing emphasis on energy efficiency, Sunil introduced sustainable architectural designs, including extruded aluminum and thermally broken products, broadening the company's offerings to include aluminum windows and skylights. With support from his wife Sujata, Sunil founded Architectural Aluminum Techniques (AAT) to focus on this new product line while continuing the CTW legacy.
In 1992, recognizing the burgeoning demand in the U.S. market, CTW/AAT inaugurated a second manufacturing facility in Orlando, Florida. Focusing on commercial projects with a targeted business plan of Entertainment and Educational segments, AAT enjoyed a respectable backlog of glazing projects in the Central Florida area.
Known for successfully completing projects on time and at a competitive rate, the company’s good reputation grew with a repeat client base to this day. AAT has become a well-respected glass and glazing contractor with the skill, craftsmanship and business acumen to be a trusted partner on every project. AAT’s decades-long experience in Central Florida and sound advice with intuitive solutions have earned them a seat at many Design Assist and Integrated Project Delivery tables. Despite the closure of the Pickering, Ontario plant in 2007 upon Chand's retirement after six decades in the industry, CTW's enduring legacy persisted through AAT’s work.
A Promising Future
Today, CTW/AAT's story of pride and tradition continues through its Orlando manufacturing plant. Embracing innovation, the company now boasts a diverse portfolio, expanding beyond its steel origins to include Unitized Curtainwall, Wood Curtainwall, and Architectural Windows. As CTW/AAT looks towards the future, its commitment to excellence remains unwavering, ensuring a bright trajectory for generations to come.
