I recently had the opportunity to visit Classic Truss and spend time with Marty Scott, Operations Manager, and Clarence Houk, Design Manager. It was one of those visits that reminds you how much this industry has changed, and how much of that change comes from steady, intentional progress rather than overnight transformation. [For all photos, See PDF or View in Full Issue.]
Marty began by walking me through the history of the company, which traces its roots back to 1992. Like many successful component manufacturers, Classic Truss started small, focusing on doing things right and building trust with customers. Over the years, they have evolved methodically, investing in people, equipment, and processes that allow them to grow without losing control of quality or consistency.
The plant tour told that story better than any timeline could. The facility is impressive, not just because of its size, but because of how well it functions. The equipment is highly automated, reflecting years of investment in modern manufacturing technology. Automation here is clearly not about replacing people, but about supporting them, improving accuracy, throughput, and safety while allowing skilled employees to focus on what they do best.
What stood out immediately was how clean and organized the plant is. Anyone who has toured enough component facilities knows that organization does not happen by accident. It takes discipline, leadership, and a culture that values efficiency and pride in the workspace. At the same time, the operation still feels like a living, breathing manufacturing environment. The buildings form something of a maze, a result of growth layered over time, and Marty pointed out several areas where improvements and expansions are already planned. This is not a company standing still.
My conversation with Clarence focused on the design department, which is clearly treated as a critical part of the business. Design is not isolated from production or sales. Instead, designers work closely with operations, field personnel, and customers to ensure projects are buildable, efficient, and aligned with how the plant actually runs. Each designer has their own office with ample workspace, ergonomic seating, and multiple monitors, one that is 48 inches plus two more sizable monitors. Alignment between design and manufacturing is often discussed in our industry, but it is not always executed well. At Classic Truss, it is clearly intentional.
Walking the plant with Marty and Clarence, it was easy to see the balance Classic Truss has worked hard to maintain. The company clearly values where it came from, while continuing to modernize and push forward. Space has become a challenge as the operation has grown, and rather than relocate or shut down production, they made the bold decision to build a larger facility directly over the existing plant. Production never stopped. That kind of decision does not happen without trust, coordination, and a team willing to execute. It speaks volumes about the culture inside the walls. The investments underway today suggest Classic Truss is positioning itself well for the future, while staying firmly rooted in the fundamentals that made the company successful in the first place.
It was time well spent, and a reminder that thoughtful growth still matters in component manufacturing.