Founded in 1916, Brainard Rivet Company has a rich history rooted in craftsmanship and innovation. It has evolved from a small operation in Pennsylvania to a renowned industry leader in the fastener manufacturing sector. Today, the company’s identity is defined by its high-quality products and proud status as a 100% employee-owned organization—a distinction that has played a pivotal role in shaping its success and ongoing commitment to its employees and customers.
A Humble Beginning: Fowler Rivet Company (1916)
Brainard Rivet Company’s story begins in 1916 when it was originally founded as Fowler Rivet Company in Braddock, Pennsylvania. The company started with a singular focus on manufacturing rivets, a vital component in the growing industrial sector of the early 20th century. Rivets were essential in the construction of everything from bridges to railroads, and Fowler Rivet quickly established itself as a reliable provider in the market.
Relocation and Rebranding: J.W. Brainard Steel Company (1919-1927)
In 1919, the company was purchased and relocated to Warren, Ohio—a city that would later become an important part of Mahoning Valley’s industrial and steel production boom in the United States. The new ownership renamed the company J.W. Brainard Steel Company. The move to Ohio was a key decision, positioning the company closer to the heart of the steel industry, where it would continue to grow and adapt to the ever-changing needs of industrial America.
By 1927, the company experienced another change in ownership when Townsend Company acquired it and rebranded the operation as Brainard Rivet Company, a name that would become synonymous with quality and reliability in the fastener industry.
A New Home in Girard, Ohio (1951)
In 1951, the company took another important step in its journey: it moved from Warren to its current location in Girard, Ohio. This move not only allowed for expansion and better infrastructure but also solidified the company’s role as a central player in Ohio’s steel and manufacturing sector. At this time, Brainard Rivet continued to innovate and grow, becoming a trusted name in the rivet and fastener business.
Integration into Textron: A New Era Begins (1959)
The landscape of the company changed once again in 1959 when Townsend Company and all its divisions, including Brainard Rivet, were acquired by Textron, Inc. Textron, a global conglomerate known for its diverse range of products and services, brought new resources and opportunities to Brainard Rivet. However, despite the large corporate ownership, Brainard Rivet retained its core focus on producing high-quality, precision fasteners.
Employee Ownership: The Turning Point (1998)
One of the most defining moments in Brainard Rivet’s history came in 1998 when the company became a subsidiary of Fastener Industries and transitioned to an employee-owned structure. However, this transition was not without challenges. Facing potential closure, the employees, determined to preserve their jobs and the company’s legacy, sought assistance from the Ohio Employee Ownership Center (OEOC), a state-funded nonprofit that connects workers with consultants to explore employee ownership options.
With the OEOC’s guidance, the employees proposed an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) to acquire the company. Recognizing the significance of this endeavor, U.S. Representative Jim Traficant played a crucial role in facilitating the sale. He introduced legislation to amend the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, aiming to require companies planning to close plants to offer the business for sale to employees. His advocacy helped pave the way for Brainard Rivet’s successful transition to employee ownership.
This shift was more than just a change in ownership—it was a transformation in culture, accountability, and long-term vision. By implementing a 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Brainard Rivet empowered its workforce, making every employee a true stakeholder in the company’s future.
The transition had a profound impact on both the business and its people. With employees directly invested in the company’s performance, there was a noticeable increase in engagement, motivation, and collaboration. Every decision—whether in production, customer service, or operations—was now approached with a shared sense of ownership and responsibility. The ESOP model fostered an environment where employees weren’t just workers; they were business partners dedicated to ensuring the company’s continued growth and success.
Beyond internal benefits, employee ownership also strengthened Brainard Rivet’s commitment to quality and innovation. With a vested interest in maintaining high standards, employees took even greater pride in their work, driving efficiency, consistency, and continuous improvement. This ownership mindset not only enhanced customer satisfaction but also contributed to the company’s long-term stability in an evolving industry.
The transition was widely covered by The Vindicator, which detailed the impact on the local economy and the employees’ fight to save their jobs. Reports highlighted how the company’s closure would have devastated the community, and the efforts of Jim Traficant, the OEOC, and the employees themselves were instrumental in securing the ESOP deal. The newspaper chronicled the legal and legislative steps that allowed the workers to take control of the company, emphasizing the significance of this victory for both Brainard Rivet and similar manufacturing businesses facing similar challenges. The community’s response was overwhelmingly supportive, seeing the move as a beacon of hope for local industry resilience.
Today: A Legacy of Quality, Ownership, and Innovation
As a 100% employee-owned company, Brainard Rivet has remained a leader in the fastener industry for over a century. Its workforce continues to uphold the company’s legacy of quality craftsmanship, while the focus on employee ownership has created a culture where every individual has a personal stake in the company’s success.
Brainard Rivet’s commitment to its employees has not only created a loyal and engaged workforce but has also fostered long-term stability and growth. The company’s ability to adapt and innovate, driven by the collective effort of its employees, ensures its continued success in an ever-changing industry.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Employee Ownership
As Brainard Rivet looks to the future, it remains dedicated to the principles of employee ownership that have been central to its success. The company’s model of shared ownership encourages employees to take an active role in shaping the direction of the company, driving improvements, and maintaining the high standards of quality that have been a hallmark since its inception.
For Brainard Rivet, the journey is far from over. As an employee-owned company, we will continue to innovate, grow, and deliver top-quality products for our customers while remaining deeply committed to the people who have made our success possible—our employees.
Conclusion
From its beginnings in 1916 as Fowler Rivet Company in Pennsylvania to its current status as a 100% employee-owned business, Brainard Rivet Company’s history is one of resilience, innovation, and commitment to both quality and its people. Today, the company is a testament to the power of employee ownership and the lasting impact it can have on a business, its workforce, and its customers. With a legacy built on craftsmanship and a future driven by its employee-owners, Brainard Rivet is poised to continue its journey as a leader in the fastener industry for many years to come.