During the NISTM 2025 event, Ike Porter, Regional Sales Manager of Gilbert Industries, shared a clear vision of how the company has maintained its position in a highly regulated and competitive market. Since its inception in 2001, this U.S. company has focused on providing customized solutions for multiple industries across the country, focusing on quality, regulatory compliance and strengthening relationships with its customers.
Through an open and technical talk, Porter detailed how they face the current challenges of the sector and what are the keys that have led them to consolidate as one of the leaders in tanks and pressure vessels in the United States.
Gilbert Industries was founded in Sparta, Missouri, as a family-owned business with a clear purpose: to bring complex storage projects to life for demanding industrial sectors. Since then, it has grown to operate nationwide, serving industries such as oil and gas, food and beverage, chemicals, cryogenics and even defense.
The company has important certifications that support its processes, it is accredited with the ASME "U" stamp, which validates the manufacture of pressure vessels under international standards, and with the National Board "R" stamp, which authorizes the company to perform repairs and modifications on existing pressure vessels. These credentials are an important factor in ensuring the quality and reliability of its products.
One of the pillars that Ike Porter highlights is the rigorous technical approach that Gilbert Industries applies to each of its projects. The company manufactures tanks in accordance with standards such as API 650, API 620 and API 653, which regulate the design, manufacture and repair of storage tanks.
Each tank is manufactured in accordance with the applicable code, including tests such as X-ray, vacuum testing, liquid penetrant inspection and liquid penetrant inspection and other non-destructive tests. This process ensures that the tanks can operate safely for decades.
"When we deliver a tank, that customer is getting a product that has been tested, inspected and is going to last twenty, thirty or forty years."
Porter stated.
The year 2025 brought with it some complications for large EPC contractors, especially due to the impact of unstable tariffs and economic conditions, many large projects were postponed or scaled back.
Faced with this scenario, Gilbert Industries was able to adapt, instead of relying exclusively on large contracts, the company expanded its portfolio of smaller scale jobs, while maintaining a healthy operational load. Today they focus on manufacturing and delivering one to four tanks per customer, without relying on mega-projects of fifty units or more.
One of the strengths Porter mentioned is the way they manage all project documentation. From the time they receive the purchase order, Gilbert Industries begins to organize the technical records of the job, including testing, material certifications and full traceability of the components used.
Once the tank is completed, and after the corresponding hydrostatic test is performed, the team delivers a complete closure package within four to five days. This package contains everything necessary for the client to approve and file the project without complications.
This document efficiency, which integrates tests such as MTRs (Material Test Reports) and technical certifications, represents a particularly important added value for operators in regulated industries such as the petrochemical and food industries.
Beyond technical capabilities, Porter stressed that Gilbert Industries' true differential is the relationship they build with their customers. Each project is treated with personalized attention, and the company's human approach has generated a solid base of repeat customers.
"There are a lot of opportunities out there, but what makes the difference is building a genuine relationship with the client. When they know what we offer, they want us to come back for their next project."
Ike Porter stated.
This work model based on trust has allowed the company to maintain a constant growth dynamic, even in challenging economic contexts.
With more than two decades of experience, a diversified operation and an established reputation, Gilbert Industries is confidently looking to the future. Ike Porter is clear that opportunities remain present in all industry sectors, and that success will depend on maintaining quality and strengthening long-term relationships.
The company remains steadfast in its value proposition: to build tanks and vessels that not only meet technical requirements, but are also delivered efficiently and with comprehensive support. From Missouri to the entire United States, Gilbert Industries continues to be a leader in industrial storage solutions.
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Source: Inspenet.
