our story
Founding and early Innovation
Behlen Mfg. Co. was founded in 1936 by Walter D. Behlen in Columbus, Nebraska. The company gained recognition for innovation in metal fabrication and engineering.
In 1950, Behlen entered the metal building market with its self-framing S-Span building system, a pioneering design known for strength and durability. That same year, Behlen also introduced its unique “Honeycomb” building. This engineering breakthrough used rolled steel panels as the structural support and exterior skin, eliminating the need for internal framing.
Behlen received national attention in 1955 when its frame-less structure withstood an atomic bomb test in Nevada. This building stands today as a symbol of endurance and structural integrity.
Then, in 1956, Behlen became a founding member of the Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA). In this role, Behlen has helped shape the industry’s standards from the very beginning.
Ownership Transitions and Leadership
The Wickes Corporation acquired Behlen in 1969. The business ran into hard times, and by 1984 faced much uncertainty. A.F. “Tony” Raimondo led a management buyout to restore Behlen to local Nebraska ownership. On May 5, 1984, Behlen became family-owned and locally operated again. Since then, Behlen has continued to grow and innovate under independent leadership.
Strategic Growth and Innovation
In 2010, Behlen Building Systems expanded its engineering capabilities and offerings with EagleSpan®. In doing so, we gained the ability to provide advanced curve roof systems.
Ten years later, in 2020, Trident Building Systems Inc. of Sarasota, Florida, became part of Behlen Building Systems. Like Behlen, Trident began as a family-owned business with a strong heritage and a commitment to quality. The merger increased our building capacity and established a strategic footprint in the Eastern and Southeastern United States. Since then, we’ve streamlined our operations. Now we operate as one cohesive unit. With manufacturing facilities in Columbus, NE, and Sarasota, FL, we’ve:
- strengthened our production capabilities
- enhanced efficiency
- significantly improved our ability to serve customers nationwide
- and opened new growth opportunities.
Discover more about our offerings and production capabilities.
Let’s Connect
Contact us today to learn more about becoming part of the Behlen legacy.