This year, we’re proud to celebrate our 60th anniversary of operations. That’s six whole decades of serving the community with quality fence, gate, bollard, and rail installations! Let’s reflect on our past a bit and explore some notable milestones that got us to where we are today.
Brief History
In 1964, two friends working for the Dominion Bridge Company decided to branch out on their own. Prior to the inception of Raybern Erectors, Ernie was a project manager and Ray, an installer. Together they formed a powerful team that endeavoured to specialize in chain link fence installation. The two worked extremely hard and quickly gained traction in the community. They were constantly on the road and in the bush, seeking and fulfilling project opportunities.
Early notable projects:
Some notable projects from the early days of Raybern includes the Cassiar Asbestos mine. This project led to the purchase of our first (of many) iconic red trucks, a 1976 Ford F600. A crimson motor pool has been a symbol of the company ever since. Another of Raybern’s first projects was the Bunzten Lake Overflow Station, where an ample amount of chain link mesh was needed to provide rock protection. Similar applications were made for the Whistler and Brackendale substations. Finally, in the days of BC Tel, Raybern was recruited to install fencelines for a variety of microwave stations throughout the interior. Often instructions weren’t much more precise than detailing what mountain the tower was on, but our crews took to the forests with vigor! From Burnaby to Prince George to Kamloops, Raybern Erectors was fast forging a reputation.
Business Development:
Over time, competition in the installation realm was becoming prevalent. This led Raybern to begin wholesaling; distributing materials and fittings across western Canada. These products came from either Frost Fence or the Steel Company of Canada in Ontario. Eventually, offshore imports disrupted this business as well. Raybern pivoted again and bought a weaving machine, with the market demanding it runs 24/7. 1 machine quickly became 2, and by the 4th machine the operation had outgrown Raybern Erectors. This is what gave birth to ProLink Supply.
From a new space leased on North Road, ProLink soon saw success. They purchased a property in Maple Ridge from which they continue to serve western Canada. Today Raybern holds its place as the founding entity in the ProGroup of companies; a corporation employing over 80 people. We teach construction skills, safe work practices and leadership.
We have the privilege of preserving Ernie and Ray’s legacy of quality, adaptability, customer service and above all, hard work. Thank YOU for your contribution to our success.
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