Chief Industries
Chief Industries is a privately held, family-owned corporation headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska. Founded in 1954 by Virgil Eihusen, the company deals in multiple industries, including agriculture, construction, steel fabrication, ethanol production, transportation, metal building manufacturing, and modular housing
Overview
Chief Industries was founded in 1954 when Virgil Eihusen launched a residential construction company in his garage in Grand Island, Nebraska. in 1993, Robert Eihusen became the CEO until 2010. Since then, DJ Eihusen has been leading the company. Chief Industries expanded into agricultural storage solutions with the creation of Chief Agri in 1961 and metal building systems with Chief Buildings in 1966.
In 1968, Chief Industries underwent significant growth, including opening facilities in Fort Dodge and Rensselaer and rebranding to Chief Industries. Over the next decades, Chief Industries expanded its operations to include modular housing, transportation services, ethanol production, and steel fabrication.
Operations and subsidiaries
Chief Agri
Founded in 1961, Chief Agri manufactures grain storage and handling equipment for agricultural producers worldwide. The brand operates in the United States, Europe, South America, Africa, Australia, and Asia.
Chief Buildings
Established in 1966, Chief Buildings focuses on manufacturing non-residential metal building systems. Its facilities are located in Nebraska, Iowa, Alabama, South Carolina, and Indiana.
BonnaVilla
BonnaVilla, founded in 1970, produces modular homes in a range of customizable floor plans. Homes are manufactured in a controlled environment, ensuring year-round production.
Chief Carriers
Since 1973, Chief Carriers has provided trucking and logistics services, specializing in flatbed, dry van and oversized freight across the United States and Canada.
Chief Ethanol Fuels
Chief Ethanol Fuels operates Nebraska's first dry-mill ethanol plant. Established in 1990, it processes over 40 million bushels of corn annually to produce renewable fuel, distiller grains, and corn oil.
Chief Fabrication
Founded in 1984, Chief Fabrication is a steel fabrication company providing services such as welding, CNC punching, and stamping for various industries.
Chief Construction
The original business unit, Chief Construction, offers design-build, construction management, and general contracting services.
Awards and recognition
1968: Partners in Progress Award, Grand Island Chamber of Commerce1968: Small Businessman of the Year, Small Business Administration 2023: Richard Good Distinguished Service Award, Grand Island Chamber of Commerce