Simpson Strong-Tie: 70 Years
70 years of Breaking New Ground
For seven decades, we’ve helped builders design and construct safer, stronger structures—starting with a single joist hanger and growing into solutions trusted worldwide.
Honouring our past. Building our future.
One question changed construction forever. In 1956, our founder Barc Simpson was asked a simple question: “Can you make a connector for a roof?” That moment sparked a movement that transformed how structures are built.
From the very first joist hanger, Simpson Strong-Tie has been defined by innovation, integrity and an unwavering commitment to safety. Over the decades, we’ve grown from a small workshop into a global leader—setting industry standards, pioneering new solutions and earning the trust of builders everywhere.
Today, we stand at the forefront of engineering excellence, backed by advanced technology, rigorous testing and a relentless focus on quality. But our future is about more than products.
It’s about people—our employees, customers and partners. It’s about the communities where we live and work. And it’s about continuing to break new ground, together, as we build a stronger tomorrow.
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1956
Company Founded
At his neighbor’s request, Barc Simpson created a joist hanger on his father’s window screen factory punch press in Oakland, California—launching Simpson Manufacturing.
1956
First Connector Launched (F24)
The joist hanger was so successful that Barc sold 25,000 units at $0.10 each, retooling the entire factory to focus on connectors alone
1960
Tye Gilb Joins Company
Tye Gilb joined as Simpson’s first Head of Product, becoming a founding father of the company. He created 70 patented designs during his 35-year tenure.
1969
Hugh B. Oliphant Joins Company
Hugh Oliphant joined as Simpson’s first Sales Manager, becoming a founding father. His legendary leadership instilled a culture of loyalty and trustworthiness.
1993
Simpson Enters Fastener Market
Simpson entered the fastener market with the SD8 DIY Screw, expanding beyond its main connector and anchor offerings.
1994
Tom Fitzmeyers Becomes President and CEO
Tom Fitzmeyers becomes President and CEO of Simpson Manufacturing.
1995
Ackerman Johnson Acquired
Simpson acquired Ackerman Johnson, a manufacturer of chemical and mechanical anchors for concrete fastening systems. The company launched new mechanical and adhesive anchors the following year.
1996
ISO 9001 Certification Achieved
Simpson became the first ISO 9001-certified company in the connector industry, meeting the globally recognized standard for quality management.
2003
Tyrell Gilb Resarch Laboratory Opens
The $10 million, 25,000-square-foot Tyrell Gilb Research Laboratory opened in Stockton with specialized equipment to test resistance to extreme winds and earthquakes.
2014
Founder Barclay Simpson Passes Away
Company founder Barclay Simpson passed away. Beyond Simpson, Barc championed economic innovation, educational equity, and excellence across arts, business, and athletics.
2023
Mike Olosky Named President & CEO
Mike Olosky was named CEO after serving as President & COO. Previously spent 22+ years at Henkel in leadership roles. Holds degrees from Michigan Tech, MSU, and Oakland University.
2023
NEHRI TallWood Project
As lead industry partner, Simpson supported the NHERI TallWood test, simulating earthquakes on a full-scale 10-story mass timber building using the world's largest shake table.
2026
70th Anniversary Celebrated
Simpson Strong-Tie celebrates 70 years of business, continuing to deliver innovative products for an ever-evolving industry.
The values that built our legacy
Our founder, Barc Simpson, believed that how we work matters as much as what we build. His nine principles continue to guide our decisions, our culture and our commitment to doing what’s right.
Innovation in Action
Barc Simpson believed that progress requires both vision and action. Guided by his principles — especially risk-taking innovation, high-quality products and a long-range view — we continue to create solutions that respond to real-world challenges and move construction forward.
Breaking new ground — then, now and what’s next
Innovation has driven Simpson Strong-Tie from the beginning — and it continues to shape what’s ahead.
From new product solutions to advanced engineering tools and digital resources, we’re focused on helping building professionals work smarter, faster and safer.
Stay connected to see what’s next.
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