Celebrating 175 years of American manufacturing excellence, Bingham & Taylor remains at the forefront of innovation
For 175 years, leading Virginia-based manufacturer Bingham & Taylor has established itself as a true pillar within the manufacturing industry. Since its founding in 1849, the company name has grown to be synonymous with the highest quality of underground utility access products for the water and gas industries, with an extensive portfolio to cover any job or need. Now, leading at the forefront of innovation, the company is renowned for its pioneering contributions to the industry, which include the invention of the Original Buffalo Box, service box repair lids and the introduction of height-adjustable service boxes and security options.
Bingham & Taylor’s vast product range includes a variety of valve, curb and meter boxes, which are available in cast iron, standard plastic combination cast iron and plastic (CIP), and Bingham & Taylor’s innovative Bison thick-walled ABS plastic, as well as heavy-duty cleanout boxes, a comprehensive collection of meter pits, frames and lids, tools and custom solutions.
“We partner with our clients from design to delivery, ensuring our products are installed efficiently and perform reliably in the field,” shares Kevin Jehl, Chief of Commercial at Bingham & Taylor. “Our solutions help protect critical infrastructure and extend the lifespan of utility systems, providing long-term value to our customers, and we continue to expand our product lines and services to address the evolving needs of the utility industry.”
Additionally, Bingham & Taylor prides itself on its rich, all-American legacy, with all of its products expertly crafted in the United States.
Being 100 percent American-made is a core part of Bingham & Taylor’s identity and values. It means that every product the company manufactures is made with the highest quality materials and craftsmanship in the United States. This commitment not only supports American jobs and strengthens the domestic economy, but also ensures that all products meet the strictest industry standards for safety, reliability, and durability.
Leading the company in its pursuit of American manufacturing excellence is President and CEO, Laura Grondin. Her career at Bingham & Taylor has been defined by her forward-thinking leadership and ability to balance passion with strategic vision.
Laura entered the family business aged 22 and credits her father’s confidence in her as the foundation for her success. At a recent event commemorating the 175th anniversary of the company, Laura spoke about her father’s invaluable influence.
Powered by her father’s encouragement, Laura has driven Bingham & Taylor through significant transformation using a leadership style that is deeply rooted in her belief in resilience, teamwork and mentorship, combining intelligence, vision and a commitment to empowering others.
“As a woman in a male-dominated field, I understand the value of mentorship, and having people who can guide and support you is essential,” Laura says.
“In a sector where female leadership is still rare, Laura’s success is a testament to her ability to lead with both strength and humility,” Kevin Jehl continues. “She has fostered an environment at Bingham & Taylor where diversity is embraced, and everyone is encouraged to bring their best ideas forward. It’s not just about breaking barriers; it’s about creating a culture where innovation and excellence can thrive, regardless of gender.”
Over the past several years, Bingham & Taylor has undergone some exciting developments, which include a transformation of its senior leadership team and the expansion and modernization of its foundry in Culpeper, Virginia. Renovated to tackle global challenges, such as the pandemic and supply chain shortages, this investment has seen the introduction of brand-new cutting-edge technology and equipment, such as a new melt/quality lab, molding lines, advanced CNC machining, robotic welding and laser cutting equipment, a monorail transport system and several electric induction furnaces. This upgrade has had a prodigious effect on the foundry’s operations, efficiency and environmental impact, marking a 73 percent reduction in employees’ Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR), a 65 percent reduction in production lead times, and a 93 percent reduction in particulate matter emissions.
In 2024, Bingham & Taylor celebrates a monumental milestone – its 175th anniversary. When we asked Laura what factors have contributed to this outstanding achievement and overall longevity and success of the business, she highlighted six key attributes: a commitment to innovation, a customer-centric approach, a focus on quality, investing in people, adaptability, and strong core values. These values (Collaboration, Creativity, Accountability, Respect, Excellence, Sustainability – referred to as C2ARES) are essential in the company’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive corporate culture, and Bingham & Taylor is keen to continue championing these qualities as it moves into the future.
Over the next five years, Bingham & Taylor aims to continue leading the way in the American manufacturing sector, placing a specific focus on expanding its sustainability efforts and further investing in both its workforce and production capabilities. Through these ‘futureproofing’ initiatives, a loyal and diverse team, strong longstanding partnerships, and its strong reputation, Bingham & Taylor is well positioned for the future.