On Monday, October 19, T.W. Frierson celebrated 50 years of Design Systems Builders, LLC (DSB), bringing together founding members of the DSB team, industry partners and employees to recognize the people and relationships behind five decades of building.
Having members of the original team alongside those carrying DSB forward made this milestone especially meaningful. It was an opportunity to reconnect, share stories and reflect on the work that has shaped DSB since 1976, all during what has already become the biggest year in its history.
DSB was established to expand our capabilities in precision-engineered building systems, bringing skilled craftspeople and specialized expertise together to provide greater control over quality, cost and schedule. That purpose continues to guide the team today.
Through its longstanding relationship with Butler Manufacturing, DSB has helped general contractors, developers and building owners deliver facilities that support their businesses. Its portfolio spans manufacturing plants, power & energy projects, distribution centers, commercial facilities and aviation projects, with capabilities that have grown to include metal roofing, re-roofing, insulated metal panels and specialty facades.
Over the years, that work has earned DSB recognition across the industry, including five Butler North American Builder of the Year awards. Behind those achievements are the crews planning each installation, the superintendents coordinating work in the field and the team members following through on commitments to clients and partners. Those daily contributions are what make a 50-year milestone possible.
Throughout DSB’s history, safety and craftsmanship have remained central to how the team works. Training its own erection crews helps DSB build specialized knowledge, maintain consistent standards and reinforce safe practices on every project. It reflects the same commitment we share across T.W. Frierson: Safety on Purpose.
The anniversary celebration gave us a chance to thank the people who established that foundation and those who continue to strengthen it. Our founding team members helped set the direction. Generations of employees have built on their work. Our industry partners and clients have trusted DSB with opportunities to grow, adapt and take on new challenges. That shared effort has brought us to a significant moment: 50 years in business and our biggest year yet in 2026.
We’re proud of what that says about the team and the trust it has earned. We’re equally excited about what comes next. With experienced people, strong partnerships and momentum heading into its next chapter, DSB has big things ahead.
To everyone who joined us on October 19, and everyone who has been part of DSB’s story, thank you for helping build these first 50 years. We look forward to building the next chapter together.
Photos from the celebration: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjD8tPC
