Virginia Construction Journal
Spring 2009
In 1980 Walter Gee and Gerald (Jerry) Funk founded Bartone Steel Fabricators, Inc. Prior to that, Walter operated a welding shop in Va. Beach and Jerry worked as a sales representative and manager for a local steel supplier. These two friends had a mutual respect for each other and a commitment to building their careers in the construction industry. As a result, they decided to put their friendship to the ultimate test and form a new business together. The two embraced a simple common philosophy: keep the business small, manageable and, hopefully, profitable. This fundamental plan was the foundation of their business and has been the one part of Bartone Steel's corporate culture that has never changed. It has helped them find their business niche as well as sustain them during tough economic times. As Funk says, "We are a small shop and we employ experienced fabricators; some of whom learned directly from my partner." And, although Walter retired in 2006, his skills and work policies are carried on through those employees. Foreman Thomas Curl and Assistant Foreman Ed Cunningham are examples of that process. They have a combined
forty-seven years of continuous service at Bartone Steel.
Funk's wife, Genene, has also played an important role in the company and the success of the business. She has managed the office for over twenty-six years. Much of the company's progress can be attributed to the loaylty and hard work of the dedicated staff. "We all take pride in the products fabricated here and we make every effort to do it right and stay on schedule." When you visit the Bartone Steel website, you'll note that their tag line says it all: "Experienced...Proficient...Reliable." This is who they are. Some of Bartone's signature projects include the Rock Church in Va. Beach, the entry steel at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, and an Enlisted Barracks Complex at Fort Eustis. They typically provide structural and miscellaneous steel for commercial, inustrial, and military applications. Currently, their largest project underway is a 440-ton administration building for Thomas Nelson community College-Historical Triangle Campus in Williamsburg, VA. The general contractor for that job is W.M. Jordan Co.
When asked where he sees his company heading in the next 5 to 10 years, Funk replies, "We all plan to continue to work as hard as we can and as well as we can. Today it is difficult to stay positive and even more difficult to be profitable. But, we are a small family here with a common goal; to keep our livelihood strong." Funk and Bartone Steel have shown time and time again that they can cope with adverse times like these. As the years pass, their longevity is a testament to the way they operate and the way they produce. With a "hands on" approach and a "do it right" attitude, they have earned a solid reputation in the construction industry.
