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Tried & True

We want you to feel like a part of our family and get to know the whole Fratco community! That’s why we created Tried & True–a publication that talks about all things Fratco. We celebrate our employees, recognize our loyal customers and educate about the underground world of drainage.

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In the earth beneath our feet lies an intricate blend of minerals, organic matter, air and water–what we like to call, soil. This dynamic mixture serves as an often overlooked building block of civilization, from agriculture to construction. But what …

In the ever-evolving story of construction technology, trenchers–including what has become industrial drainage plows–stand out for revolutionizing the way we manage land and water. These formidable machines, which cut through the earth to create trenches, have played an important role …

Jeff Webb’s journey at Fratco is a testament to the company’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a supportive work environment. Joining the company eight years ago, Jeff serves as the Controller and CFO, overseeing financial operations across all Fratco …

In 2013, Jon Pfeifer laid the foundation for PNA Drainage in Richland, Iowa out of a passion for drainage and a wealth of experience in the field. Over the past decade, with a dedicated crew of three, they’ve laid an …

In the heart of our thriving Fratco community lies a commitment to excellence, one of many traits vividly shared with our valued partner, Carriff Engineered Fabrics. Carriff’s sales and marketing director, Shayne Stonehouse, met with us to help tell Carriff’s …

As drainage experts, we're not just laying pipe; we're key players in guiding water through these natural pathways. Whether it's a small creek in a rural area or a large urban canal, our work is part of a larger cycle …

In today’s world, going green isn’t just for the tree-huggers. It’s smart, it’s necessary and it’s something we can all get behind. Whether you’re on a construction site, in a workshop or running a warehouse, there are straightforward ways to …

At the heart of Fratco’s advanced corrugated drainage pipe lies the intricate chemistry and sophisticated makeup of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and high-density polypropylene (HDPP). These materials are not just plastics; they are marvels of modern chemical engineering, tailored to meet …

In the heart of Mazon, IL, there's a company that embodies the spirit of hard work and versatility—Precision Farm Drainage, Inc. At the helm of this dynamic outfit are Dan Wilkinson and his right-hand man, Tyler Cockerham. Both work together …

Outrageous success, as grand as it sounds, isn’t a far-fetched dream. It’s the cumulative result of small, consistent steps forward. It’s in learning from each project, celebrating the wins and learning from the setbacks. In an industry that’s the backbone …

Rainfall, a vital component of nature’s cycle, is eagerly anticipated by growers worldwide. It’s the heartbeat of agriculture, quenching thirsty crops and nurturing soil. However, this natural gift can quickly turn into a challenge when it becomes excessive.

Back in January 2018, Mark Richardson started his journey with Fratco, coming from an impressive 30-year stint in the automotive industry. But it wasn’t just a switch of jobs for Mark; it was the beginning of a new chapter in …

We are always looking to move forward, dreaming of the future we’re heading to. But true success, the kind that leaves a lasting mark, is not a fleeting mirage but a destination reachable through patience, persistence and perspiration.

After successfully launching the Batch & Build program, a story featured in the fall issue of Tried & True, a similar program is also taking off in Iowa, Minnesota and Ohio. This program named, “Turn-Key,” is the same practice being …

Drainage Solutions, Inc., a long-time partner of Fratco, is a remarkable drainage systems and solutions distribution company that has not only weathered the storms of time but also emerged stronger with each challenge.

Thanks to loyal customers like you, Fratco has experienced remarkable growth. We’re extremely thankful for your trust. However, new growth always brings new challenges. Rest assured, we’re tackling these head-on.

Out in the field, on a construction site or traveling between jobs, there’s nothing quite like a warm meal to fuel your day. Sometimes cold sandwiches or paying for fast food just doesn’t cut it. Remember the thermos of hot …

In the world of manufacturing, construction and innovation, the importance of standards cannot be overstated. Especially here at Fratco, where we hold ourselves and our products to high standards of reliability and endurance. Standards are the invisible threads that bind …

In the world of construction and contracting, salesmanship isn’t just about moving products or winning projects; it’s about building trust, offering real value and forging lasting relationships.

Carrie’s history with Fratco began over a decade ago when she became the first woman on the Mount Pleasant production floor. After a brief departure to the medical field, she returned to Fratco when the call came from the Mount …

The toil of the trade in winter climates can often lead to one pesky issue: dry hands. Whether you’re handling drainage pipe or shaking hands with a customer, maintaining healthy hands is the best way to keep up with any …

Water is a precious resource vital for agricultural production and the overall health of our environment. As the demand for food grows and concerns about water quality and sustainability increase, it becomes crucial to find innovative solutions for responsible water …

Central Plastics Inc. is a remarkable success story in the drainage industry. We talked with Curt Yoder, co-founder of Central Plastics Inc., to get the scoop on how they partner with Fratco in Illinois to bring the best quality products …

Braving the trenches for drainage solutions is no walk in the park. Let's be real, it's tough, gritty work, and there's no sugar-coating it. Where there's drainage, there are dangers. Buckle up for a gritty dive into the challenges and …

About to celebrate his one year “workiversary,” Austin Simanson, has felt like part of the Fratco family since the moment he was hired last summer.  He assumed he would feel like an outlier, like previous jobs he had, but little …

With agriculture making up a large portion of plastic drainage pipe business, it is no surprise that the Farm Bill is hot news right now in the plastic pipe industry, but according to the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), 71% …

Over six decades ago, a 25 year old David Pullins took a chance and started Pullins Drainage and Excavation, LLC. The business succeeded and it wasn’t long before David’s son, Paul, got involved and eventually took over at the helm. …

The Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) is a trade association that represents all the industries where plastic pipe is used. They are composed of many members that are involved in the drainage industry such as, plastic pipe manufacturers, companies that make …

Starting out as a single guy working in the yard getting customers loaded, Stephen feels like Fratco has been there every step of his growth. He is married with two children and now carries the title of Plant Manager at …

Fratco always has an eye on the horizon for what’s next, and one person on the front lines of the company’s careful expansion is Jerry Weiland: a Fratco sales rep of two years serving customers across the country from North …