Ulbrich Stainless Steels & Special Metals Celebrates a Century of Excellence with Centennial Gala
On Saturday eve, March 23rd, 2024, Ulbrich Stainless Steels & Special Metals, Inc. celebrated our centennial anniversary with a grand gala at the Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville, Connecticut. The event marked 100 years of the Ulbrich family legacy and was attended by over 600 employees, retirees, and notable government officials.
The gala kicked off with an executive and family photoshoot before employees and their guests poured into the Aqua Turf’s Kay’s Pier banquet hall for cocktail hour. Upon seating at their tables, captivated attendees watched with reverence as the Governor’s Foot Guard presented the colors. Chris Ulbrich, Chairman and CEO, had the honor of introducing the Foot Guard, explaining that the historic military regiment had been active since the earliest days of the American Revolution.
Mayor Kevin Scarpati of Meriden followed with a rousing, Sinatra-like performance of the national anthem.
As the ceremonies came to a close, Chris Ulbrich rose for a heartfelt speech, thanking all the Ulbrich team members, both past and present, for their contributions to the company. He also expressed gratitude to the entire Ulbrich community, from vendors to suppliers and organizations that serve the community.
The event was graced by the presence of Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Connecticut Chief Manufacturing Officer Paul Lavoie, State Representative Dave Yaccarino, former Wallingford Mayor William Dickenson. In addition to Mayor Scarpati of Meriden, Mayor Vincent Cervoni of Wallingford and First Selectman Micheal J. Freda of North Haven also attended the event.
Bysiewicz, Lavoie, and the mayors each spoke to Ulbrich’s longevity and the importance of our manufacturing jobs to the state’s economic prosperity. Mayor Scarpati and Mayor Cervoni even proclaimed that March 23rd is now officially dedicated to celebrating Ulbrich’s contributions to our communities. The governor’s office presented a 100th birthday card to the Ulbrich family.
The gala celebrated Ulbrich’s journey since 1924, acknowledging the countless hardworking men and women who have been the driving force behind the company's achievements. Chris Ulbrich highlighted the company's adaptability, from making mess kits during World War II to contributing to lunar landings, Mars missions, and life-saving medical devices.
A special gift, a book titled "More than Metal “chronicling the company's history, was announced to be mailed to the homes of all attendees. The book was originally written by longtime company Chairman and CEO Fred Ulbrich Jr. and finished as part of our company’s centennial celebration.
The event concluded with a series of toasts and a video presentation complete with restored and recovered footage of Ulbrich's founders. The film highlighted characteristics of the company culture that remain consistent over 100 years later. A spirited performance from the “The Zoo” band followed dinner, rousing dancers to their feet well into the night.
The centennial anniversary gala was a testament to Ulbrich's enduring legacy and a celebration of our bright future.
Want to learn more about Ulbrich’s century of excellence?
Visit our Centennial website for a company timeline, treasured memories, and more!
