Our manufacturing and construction sector is a major part of our local economy and one of our region’s top employers.
We’re grateful to have innovative and resilient manufacturers and fabricators in Abbotsford, and last month our Business Spotlight series brought us to Clearbrook Iron Works, a local structural steel fabrication institution that’s coming up on its 70th anniversary.
During our visit we learned all about the company’s history, operations and the challenges they face. On the shop floor we got a close look as employees fabricated and prepared steel products right before our eyes. Clearbrook Iron Works has just under 50 employees, a quarter of whom have been with the company for more than 20 years.
We’re always proud to have so many family businesses stay in our community for generations. Clearbrook Iron Works first opened in 1956 as a railing shop before eventually moving into structural steel. Over time it has become a leading structural steel fabricator with a strong reputation in both the construction industry and for their community support in Abbotsford.
Clearbrook Iron Works has been involved with projects across BC, including the McCallum Junction and Abbotsford Regional Hospital, however most of their work is done in the Lower Mainland. They have dedicated their time to building strong relationships with their clients and other competing businesses in the construction industry. Since most of their business is completed in BC, they have been spared from any imposed American tariffs.
We also got a look next door inside Clearbrook Iron Works’ sister company Midway Wheelabrating Ltd., where their steel products are cleaned, finished and painted. Midway has grown its own successful customer base, while still supporting the work at Clearbrook Iron Works.
Clearbrook Iron Works has been in our community for generations and continues to be a valuable part of it, supporting of a variety of local fundraisers and charities, as well as sports teams and UFV’s trades programs, while also working closely with other Abbotsford businesses. It’s inspiring to see Clearbrook Iron Works set such a positive, community-minded example.
Thank you to owner and general manager Paul Unger and the whole Clearbrook Iron Works team for having us. Going behind the scenes at Abbotsford businesses is always a fascinating and illuminating experience. The insights we gained will help inform the decisions we make around the Council table, as we work to continually strengthen and develop our vibrant and diverse local economy.
Abbotsford City Council