Frontier Galvanizing

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Frontier Galvanizing

Frontier Galvanizing (legal name, Frontier Hot-Dip Galvanizing, Inc.) has delivered reliable corrosion protection for over seventy-five years. From its plant in Buffalo, the company provides hot-dip galvanizing services that support vital infrastructure. Its work strengthens bridges, highways, stadiums, and utility systems, ensuring they stand the test of time. Over the decades, Frontier Galvanizing has grown from a small local operation into a trusted partner for projects across the United States and internationally, guided by consistency, environmental responsibility, and client trust.

The company has been recognized for its technical capabilities. In 1998, it earned the Excellence in Hot-Dip Galvanizing Award from the American Galvanizers Association for the Franklinville Bridge #31 in New York. This award confirmed the company’s ability to meet strict requirements while delivering practical results. Achievements like this illustrate how Frontier Galvanizing has balanced technical skill with dependable service.

The organization began in 1948 on Austin Street in Buffalo. At the time, it served manufacturers and contractors with galvanizing services that offered straightforward value. By the late 1960s, expanding infrastructure needs highlighted the limits of the Austin Street facility. A larger site and increased production capacity became necessary to keep pace with demand.

A turning point came in 1970, when Ray V. Pierce and a group of shareholders purchased Frontier Galvanizing. Ray saw an opportunity for growth and envisioned the business as a regional leader. Within a few years, operations were moved to the former General Drop Forge Corp. foundry at 1740 Elmwood Avenue. The new location provided the additional space and workflow improvements needed to expand operations and take on larger, more complex projects.

Soon after, Ray was joined by his brother, Lewis G. Pierce. Together, they led a program of strategic land acquisitions and facility expansions. Additional indoor galvanizing capacity and outdoor laydown yards allowed the company to process larger steel assemblies and complete projects on tighter schedules. These changes positioned Frontier Galvanizing to serve a growing client base, including state Departments of Transportation, public utilities, infrastructure contractors, and major energy providers. The workforce grew steadily as well, reaching about forty full-time employees.

Technological advancement has been central to the company’s success. Investments in continuous flux treatment, hydrochloric acid regeneration, and hex-free paintable passivation improved efficiency and environmental performance. These measures demonstrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. Membership in the American Galvanizers Association and the Galvanizers Association UK & Ireland ensures that the company remains informed about the latest research, best practices, and regulatory changes. This involvement helps Frontier Galvanizing remain adaptable and prepared for new challenges in the industry.

The company’s portfolio includes high-profile projects across North America. Its galvanizing work has been part of the Daytona Motor Speedway, the Peace Bridge connecting Buffalo and Fort Erie, Boston’s Green Line Extension, the Queensboro Bridge in New York City, and the Buffalo Bills’ new Highmark Stadium. These projects required quality assurance, reliable scheduling, and attention to detail. Beyond U.S. borders, millions of pounds of galvanized steel have been exported to Australia, Canada, Jamaica, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. These exports highlight that the company’s standards are trusted even in regions with established galvanizing industries.

Recognition from professional associations has confirmed the organization’s reputation for reliability. Awards such as the Excellence in Hot-Dip Galvanizing reflect the teamwork, process control, and craftsmanship behind each project. These honors are not sought as goals but as acknowledgment of a consistent way of working that clients value.

Leadership today remains with the Pierce family. Under the guidance of Lewis G. Pierce and his son, Robert V. Pierce, the company continues to combine proven practices with a willingness to adopt new technologies. Their focus is refining operations, strengthening client relationships, and exploring opportunities in new markets. This leadership approach ensures that Frontier Galvanizing continues to adapt while staying true to its long-standing values.

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