Tom Hobbs grew up in a family that has worked in engineering and the motor trade for more than 100 years. His childhood was spent around mechanics, plant fitters and racers, and in the 1970s he raced motorcycles, just as his father had.

He became a chartered mechanical engineer and built his career in manufacturing, procurement and operations. That gave him a view of tools few people get: what they should be made to, what they cost to make, and what the professional brands charge for them.

In October 2025 he started Gusto Tool Co to close that gap. Each tool is checked and signed off before it ships, and backed by a lifetime guarantee.