Culture Archives

Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center

Baylor University | Waco, TX

Xibitz worked closely with Populous, RLMG, and Electrosonic to bring the concepts for four interactive pillars to life in the Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center grand hall. These 90’ towers are both tapered and tilted featuring programmable lighting. The pillars are named for the theme in which guests discover not only Baylor’s story but also through a personalized experience, considering their own future ahead.

Upon entering the space guests experience the Reflect Pillar. Stepping inside this infinity, mirrored space with a fully projected ceiling, visitors are encouraged to envision their journey and future at Baylor. Next is the Connect Pillar with a 55’x8’ full HD LED array and directional sound system. A
motion detector starts a countdown and an immersive experience begins as guests stand inside the 360-degree display. The show is a connective ride through the years showcasing key historical events, and linking the visitor with the university and its traditions. Following that is the Aspire Pillar. This is a one-of-a-kind “ribbon” LED array that has an interactive element, where registered visitors can use the Baylor mobile app to scan into the AV experience. This allows the visitor to personalize the experience and see their ambitions running up this pillar, begging to ask the question of how this visitor is Inspired by their personal goals or past Baylor experience. Last is the Amplify Pillar. This has a 7’ hemisphere LED element that hangs overhead representing the globe. Within this pillar, the visitor can watch past alumni who have made significant impacts on the world. When leaving this space guests are motivated and encouraged to make a similar, positive impact on the world like other Baylor alumni.

Check out this video walk-through of the space!

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

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

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.

Meet Carlos, Quality Control Manager

by Xibitz News

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.”

Helen Devos Children’s Hospital

by Xibitz Healthcare

Grand Rapids, MI

A hospital’s work is serious business – and that can make it especially scary for a child. With this in mind, the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital provides a warm and welcoming environment, with special amenities for families while offering high-quality care in a state-of-the-art facility.

Xibitz was selected to create branded displays for the children’s hospital to recognize the gifts of over 6,000 donors and provide nontraditional location signage. The intentional design and meticulous choices of materials allow for a layering effect that accentuates detail and flow while complementing the building’s overall architectural aesthetic. The result balances playfulness and elegance, using colors and shapes to connect patients, family members, and visitors with the facility in comforting ways. Sounds like good medicine.

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