Category News

Celebrating 35 Years of Business!

by Xibitz News

Xibitz, Inc. is proud to announce the celebration of its 35-year anniversary. Since its inception in 1988, Xibitz has produced thousands of projects worldwide and has been committed to quality and innovation, remaining at the forefront of experiential design fabrication.

Founded by Bob Siebelink, Lloyd Siebelink, and Doug Bosma, Xibitz started with a focus on trade shows and temporary exhibits. The operation outgrew the original facility and moved into its current home on Gezon Parkway in Wyoming. This move allowed Xibitz growth to perform permanent exhibits and branded-design work with some of the largest athletic, healthcare, higher education, and museums in the world. The company was acquired by Ben Metzger and Jeremy Miller in 2015.

“We are extremely grateful to our dedicated employees, loyal customers, and countless partners who have been integral in Xibitz success over the past 35 years,” said Ben Metzger, Principal at Xibitz. “This anniversary marks not only the years of hard work and determination of our team but also the enormous potential that lies ahead as we continue to produce environments that capture the hearts and minds of those who experience them.”

As previously mentioned, Xibitz has created thousands of exhibits over the years and developed the Nostaboard, a split-flap display product. With a commitment to innovation, the Nostaboard was originally conceived for the Chicago Cubs headquarters across from Wrigley Field. After installation, it received interest from professional sports teams to high-end fashion shows in Paris. Blending new technology with nostalgia for old train station displays, it captivates audiences by revealing images and creating an incredible experience for the viewer.

“When Xibitz began, never in our wildest dreams did we imagine we’d be where we are today,” said Doug Bosma, Founder. “It’s been the joy of a lifetime to know that in 35 years, we have made a mark on the most recognized brands, and more importantly, that our team in West Michigan is representing our heart and grit through craftsmanship, and showcasing that around the world.”

The most notable projects in Michigan include the Sloan Museum of Discovery (2023), the University of Michigan Natural History Museum (2019), and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (2015). The largest project completed to date is the Perlan Museum in Reykjavík, Iceland (2017-2018), and the furthest project was completed for the Sydney Swans, in Australia (2023).

Meet Brad Pyle, Welder & Fabricator

by Xibitz News

What started as a hobby of fixing cars turned into a thriving career for Welder/Fabricator Brad Pyle. Taught by his older brother, Brad was introduced to metal fabrication and welding when he’d help his older brother work on sports cars. His passion for a career in the trades guided him toward a 2-year program at Ivy Tech Community College in Lawrenceburg, IN.

“Xibitz was fortunate to welcome Brad to our team in 2022 where his expertise and craftsmanship played a key role in elevating the execution of our metals department,” said Ben Metzger, Principal at Xibitz. “Since then, he’s been able to lead some of our most recognizable metal fabrication projects. He’s really a team player when it comes to production and we’re lucky to have him at Xibitz.”

One of Brad’s favorite projects is the Louisville Cardinal sculpture that hangs from the ceiling in the Angels MV Bourbon Club. The 25’ long, welded aluminum figure has an origami look and is surrounded by 8’ chunks of wood with metal and copper cladding, portraying barrel staves.

When he’s not working you can find Brad on the golf course, fishing, or cheering on Notre Dame.

Welcome, Tim!

by Xibitz News

Xibitz is pleased to welcome Tim Sinen, Project Manager, to the team.

“We are delighted to welcome Tim as the newest addition to Xibitz. His extensive experience and expertise as a project manager make him a valuable asset to our organization,” said Mike Clarke, Xibitz’ General Manager. “Our team is excited to work alongside Tim and leverage his skills to continue delivering exceptional results for our clients.”

Tim has nearly 10 years of experience in the custom sign industry in both sales and project management. He is an expert at understanding client’s needs and keeping projects moving forward to ensure timelines are upheld and quality is delivered.

Originally from Alto, MI, Tim graduated from Grand Valley State University and calls Grand Rapids “home”. In his spare time, he enjoys being outdoors, camping, and capturing Michigan drone photography.

Xibitz Announces Promotion of Zack McDonnell

by Xibitz News
Chief Engineer headshot

Xibitz is pleased to announce the promotion of Zack McDonnell to Chief Engineer. He is uniquely positioned for this role given his consistent involvement in complex projects that enter the building. His lifetime commitment to curiosity and his passion for learning has made him a pivotal member of the team.

“Zack has been extremely impactful on our Development/Engineering team, providing valuable insight and problem-solving during all phases of projects,” said Ben Metzger, Principal.

“He is a vivid example of our Xibitz core values of “we think like our clients” and “we figure it out,” by prioritizing quality, while utilizing his knowledge of materials, processes, and products, to create solutions daily.”

Zack has been a part of the Xibitz team for over 7 years. He initially joined us as a CAD Engineer, and later transitioned to the Development team who’s responsible for discovering fabrication solutions on extremely unique builds. In this new role, Zack will continue to leverage his engineering experience and oversee the CAD department, standardizing the approval process, and managing the team’s capacity. 

 

Welcome, Dave!

by Xibitz News
Dave McClure

Xibitz Inc Is pleased to welcome David McClure, CAD Engineer, to the team

“Dave is no stranger to Xibitz. He has previously worked as a subcontractor and then Detailing Supervisor, so to say we’re lucky to have him back is an understatement,” Mike Clarke, Xibitz General Manager.

Dave has over two decades of experience as both a drafter and project manager. During his previous tenure with Xibitz, he provided supervision of all CAD personnel, scheduling and construction methodology for a wide array of experiential and exhibition spaces nationally and internationally.

Over the last 10 years, Dave has been a successful business owner, providing contract drafting and design services for the tradeshow industry, and commercial millworking industry, as well as custom exhibition fabrication for businesses nationally and internationally.

Final exhibit features installed at Flint Museum

by Xibitz Museum, News

FLINT — Wyoming-based architectural fabricator Xibitz Inc. has been working in partnership with Sloan Museum of Discovery over the last three years to bring the museum’s brand-new exhibits to life, with the final piece being installed last week. This work includes the Discovery Hall Gallery, Hagerman Street Early Childhood Gallery, the History Gallery and the Durant Vehicle Galler

 

A final piece of the installation included an interactive automobile assembly line showcasing the deep history of the auto industry and allowing visitors to participate in the car assembly process. Installing this piece marks the end of a multi-year journey in enhancing the museum’s exhibits that tell the story and history of the city of Flint.

“Xibitz was honored to be selected as the trusted partner for the museum,” said Ben Metzger, principal at Xibitz. “It has been an incredible journey to watch this project develop from ideas and concepts to complete galleries that tell the story of Flint in ways for the whole family to enjoy.”

Other elements of Xibitz’ hands-on installations include multiple interactive experiences such as the 3-D Periodic table with a touchscreen kiosk in Sloan’s Discovery Hall Gallery. Visitors select which compound they would like to produce and drag the elements into the touch-screen beaker. Upon adding all elements, the periodic table lights-up with all of the elements to produce the final product.

Hagerman Street Early Childhood Gallery features an interactive ambulance, with lights, sirens, warning systems and a large flat screen integrated into the design. Also in this space is a three-story climbing experience in the form of a treehouse with multiple “peek-a-boo” boxes on each floor. The Market uses AV-integration to accomplish an interactive shopping experience that allows visitors to select different drinks.

The History Gallery features an AV system installed by Xibitz that is triggered by a visitor walking onto the “Story Stones” placed along the floor. As guests walk into the gallery, they are taken on a journey through the history of the city, guided by a carpet design representing the Flint River.

“The teamwork and support Xibitz provided to bring our vision to life was phenomenal,” said Amy Walker, exhibit coordinator at Sloan Museum of Discovery. “Xibitz brought 100 percent to the Sloan Museum of Discovery project, and I look forward to creating future projects together.”

Xibitz partnered with Cambridge Seven, Peter Hyde Design, Blue Telescope, and Electrosonic to design and fabricate the new galleries at the Sloan Museum of Discovery. — B.G

Meet Carlos, Quality Control Manager

by Xibitz News
Team photo

Carlos has been at Xibitz for 6 years and brings his experiences in construction and manufacturing to the team. He started as an estimator and after developing a unique understanding of projects, a passion for perfection, and excellence, he found himself leading Quality Control.

“He has participated in the team process and build methodology conversations which allow him to see a project from start to finish,” said Jeremy Miller, Principal at Xibitz.

This helps him understand the nuances of projects and develop mutual respect between the pre-production and fabrication/production teams. Carlos, and quality, are common conduits that run through every project.

“When I think about the day-to-day, there are a lot of tough jobs in this organization. Our days are mostly filled with excruciating fun, however, in my mind, one job, in particular, is an island of its own. It requires everything mentioned above plus a lot of courage to stand alone. Quality,” said Account Executive, Chuck Plockmeyer.

Part of being Quality Control Manager is recognizing problems and providing solutions. Providing solutions and problem-solving is synonymous with one of Xibitz core values – We figure it out. Carlos excels at this because he doesn’t shy away from the difficult conversations that are necessary to keep a project aligned with expectations. 
Project Memories

One of Carlos’ favorite projects from his time at Xibitz is Waste Management Houston Headquarters because of the sheer scale of Xibitz’ final build – an 8-story tall living wall. “It required a lot of trust and ingenuity to work through not just the fabrication challenges, but the hurdles caused by the pandemic,” commented Carlos. “In the end, it was a beautiful project that won several awards.”

Free Time + Family

When not working, Carlos enjoys spending time with his family. During summer months in Michigan, he likes loading up his 3 children and camping at various parks around the state. Having grown up on an apple orchard, Carlos finds peace in spending as much time outside as possible.

“Carlos is an extraordinary asset to every project at Xibitz,” said Jeremy. “He creates an energy and excitement for excellence that our clients expect when they work with us. Even better, he brings such joy and comradery to our teams – simply put, we couldn’t do it without him.”