The company’s community efforts extend far beyond one partnership. In Oakland, California, where the company was initially based, Barclay and his wife were major supporters of Girls Inc., an organization dedicated to empowering young women through education and mentorship. “He saw that if young women could get a good education and the resources to succeed, their chances in life were much higher,” Waite shares. Simpson Strong-Tie also continues to organize its own global volunteer initiative known as Do What You Can Day, during which employees around the world dedicate time to community service. “Everybody in the company takes time that day to support some needy cause,” Waite says. “It could be building bicycles for the less fortunate, building beds for children, or supporting food banks. Helping others is just part of our business.” PARTNERING ACROSS THE CONSTRUCTION ECOSYSTEM Collaboration has always been a key factor in Simpson Strong-Tie’s success. The company’s partnerships span the entire construction ecosystem—from engineers and architects to contractors, building inspectors, and insurance companies. “Our customers touch many different facets of construction,” Waite explains. “We’re involved with the associations that connect all of them—from engineers and architects to contractors and code officials.” This collaborative approach not only helps Simpson 62 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 11
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx