Special Report
A-1 Industries, a trailblazer in roof truss, floor truss, and its proprietary EZWALL® Innovative Framing Solution™, is redefining the landscape of home construction. With a rich history dating back to its startup roots in 1977, this 47-year-old manufacturer has not only weathered the test of time but soared to about $90 million in sales in 2023.
Under the visionary leadership of founder, chairman, and CEO John Herring, coupled with the strategic direction of President Jan S. Beck and a seasoned leadership team, A-1 Industries stands at the forefront of industry advancements. The company’s commitment to integrating modern technology with time-honored principles is encapsulated in its mission: “Using Technology to Change the Way America Builds Homes™.”
The company has expanded its footprint to 140 acres, with eight acres under roof, and tripled employment to more than 450 people and operates from its headquarters and manufacturing plant in Fort Pierce, and a second facility in Bainbridge, Ga.
Pioneering productivity applications are propelling the company forward. A-1, currently shipping 50 units daily, envisions a near future where its fleet of trucks loads up to 200 units daily in just 15 minutes, thanks to cutting-edge technology. The Whole House Engineering affiliate utilizes Building Information Modeling (BIM) software to streamline workflows, reduce project timelines, and ensure comprehensive and detailed information is accessible throughout the entire project lifecycle.
These innovations have elevated A-1 to the top 5 percent of single-site production for quality and efficiency nationwide, aiding homebuilders in addressing the critical 1.4 million shortfall in new home construction.
Notably, A-1 focuses on sustainability, contributing to the reduction of $1 billion in construction waste. Innovative practices, including the use of Patz technology, ensure maximum utilization of every inch of wood purchased. Usable defective pieces or scraps are salvaged; others are ground up for horse shavings, landscape mulch, or use in making paper. The practice recovers three truckloads — or $100,000 in product — each month.
A-1’s success is deeply rooted in its people-centric philosophy. Initially hired at entry-level positions, many employees have risen through the ranks, transforming from apprentices into skilled technicians, computer designers, and estimators. A commitment to education is evident as the company pays students to learn truss design, fostering a culture of continuous growth.
In a landscape where national corporations acquire truss manufacturers and lumber yards, A-1 Industries took a different path in 2023. Empowering its workforce, the company transitioned to an employee-owned model through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), reinforcing its dedication to shared success and collective achievement.
The accolades speak for themselves, with A-1 Industries earning the title of the 2022 Manufacturer of the Year from the South Florida Manufacturer’s Association and recognized as a Florida Trend 2023 Business to Watch. A-1’s unwavering commitment to technology, sustainability, and its people cements its position as a key player in shaping the future of home construction.
Contact A-1 for a consultation and discover how they can elevate your projects to new heights.
