RALPH “BIZZY” WILLIAMS is one of the most kindhearted people in the world. He has helped so many people, it is unbelievable. To this day, “Bizzy” always wants to help the small man.”
Those words from the lips of Harold Skeete, former Drawing Office Manager, General Manager and Managing Director of Structural Systems Limited (SSL), were spoken as Skeete reflected on his 25 years with the company.
Skeete, who returned to his first love as an architect in 2002, after leaving SSL, recalled that “Bizzy” called him up in 1977 while he was working as an architectural draughtsman and after he had just been made a partner in Anthony Hoad Associates architectural firm and invited him to join the then two-year-old company.
“I turned down the offer,” Skeete informed.
“Months later, my wife, Gail, (now deceased), looked me in the eye and said to me, ‘Call back “Bizzy” for the job.’
“I met with Bizzy over lunch and told him I was going to take him up on the offer, but I would have to give Mr Hoad a month’s notice that I was leaving. When I later learnt what was being offered me once I took the job, it was twice the amount of money I was working for at the time. A month later, I was given what I thought was another raise, so I drew it to Bizzy’s attention. I told him some mistake must have been made. It was then explained to me that on top of a salary, employees also receive a commission. When I got that commission, I realised I had gotten the best job,” a smiling Skeete said.
Sharing candidly on his years of service, Skeete spoke of the foul ups, bleeps, blunders, the happy times, the social events, the growth of the company, including many of the overseas projects on which he worked, the buildings he designed, and the camaraderie which existed between management and general employees. He also remembers that the company, which was first located at Warrens East, St Michael, close to Warrens Great House, moved and expanded quite a few times over the years, due to its rapid growth.
“We were getting lots of work in Barbados and the Caribbean. Over the years we developed our Warrens site to the max. When we left Warrens, we were occupying approximately 50 000 square feet of buildings. We then went on to build our new fabrication facility of approximately 100 000 square feet at Cane Garden, St Thomas, next to the BRC manufacturing plant.”
Skeete has many stories to tell, and they all are centred on a company whose contribution to Barbados’ economy and the opportunities afforded to employees places it among the top operating and best practices companies on the island.
He recalled how SSL was responsible for completing many projects for the overseas market. One he fondly remembers was the rebuilding of the Royal St Kitts Hotel in St Kitts and Nevis, which was partly destroyed by fire on February 27, 1983.
“The Queen’s sister, Princess Margaret, was about to visit the island in September of that year for their Independence celebrations. We met with owners of the hotel to close the deal, fabricated the building at Warrens in record time, and shipped it down to St Kitts.
“Bizzy and I would take turns going down to have the building erected in time for Princess Margaret’s visit.”
“That building went on to win the 1983 USA Building
Component Association’s Best Commercial Building Award.”
Skeete also reminisced on how the company’s portfolio grew due to the amount of business it received from the region, including St Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent, St Lucia and Dominica, among others.
“We had clients all over the Caribbean – many who would invariably call on me, and I would travel quite a bit to see these clients because of my architectural background.”
A proud Skeete, who is still a board member of the parent company, Williams Industries Inc., is happy with the strong business acumen and business ethics Structural Systems Limited has maintained over the years, as well as the fact that the company’s buildings have all lived up to their ability to withstand 130 miles-an-hour hurricane-force winds, and have had little, if any, damage during the many hurricanes the Caribbean has had over the years.
In retrospect, he is mindful of many employees whose contributions to the company must never go unnoticed. And while he is unable to number all of them, he believes that persons like Nick Branson, (director and sales estimating manager); David Reece, who is now retired, but was the production manager for close to 40 years; the late Kenny Allen (a structural engineer who recently passed away); Wayne Harper (former stores manager now property manager of WII); Aldric Barnett (production manager and former draughtsman); Curtis Brathwaite (retired erection supervisor); K.D Saul, (retired erection manager); Mark Hinkson (the current managing director); and Colin Johnson, (Stores Department manager), Shane Forde, (head, General Welding Workshop), “along with many others,” have made invaluable contributions to Structural Systems Limited
Skeete himself has designed many buildings, including Sky Mall, the former Plantation Limited Building on Lower Broad Street, Emerald City, the building at Warrens, which houses Digicel and H&B Hardware – just to name a few.
He confessed, “Some of the best years of my life were spent at Structural Systems Limited. Much has been done to the company, which is now a state-of-the art company. The secret to Structural Systems Limited’s success was that we had the right people in the right positions – to this day, plus the fact that management staff had basic salaries and commissions, welding staff are paid based on their performance and erection/sheeters are paid by the square feet.
“In addition, after Williams Industries Inc. was formed, long-standing employees received shares in the company, having worked for the various companies in the Williams Industries Inc. Group for many years. Having staff as shareholders plays a tremendous part in productivity. Unfortunately, with the influx of cheap fabricated buildings from China, the long-term sustainability of Structural Systems Limited is very worrying.”
While Skeete has returned to his first love of providing architectural services, Structural Systems Limited will always have a special place in his heart.
HAROLD SKEETE, Director of Williams Industries Inc. and retired General Manager of Structural
SSL building more than structures
by MARK HINKSON , Managing Director of SSL
STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS LIMITED , a leader in steel fabrication across Barbados and the wider Caribbean, proudly marks its 50th anniversary this year – celebrating five decades of innovation, resilience, and enduring partnerships.
Founded in 1975 as a modest steel fabrication company, Structural Systems Ltd has grown into a cornerstone of regional development, contributing to a wide range of infrastructure, from airports and seaports to schools, industrial plants, warehouses, and hurricane-resistant steel stud homes.
“Our product is steel, but our strength is our people.”
This slogan perfectly captures the spirit that has driven Structural Systems Ltd for five decades.
When I first joined this team as a welder, I never imagined that one day I would be leading the team. However, what I did know was that this company was building more than structures – it was building legacies. As our founder has always said, “When we come to work, we’re not working for him – we’re working with him. Together, we make it happen.” This was proven throughout my 32 years working in various roles within this great organisation.
One standout moment came when we were approached to fabricate steel tanks for a local rum distillery – a bold and highly specialised project, and a first in our company’s history. Under the leadership of our Chairman, The Most Honourable Dr Ralph “Bizzy” Williams, we rose to the challenge and delivered on time and within budget. That success opened new doors in the manufacturing and processing industry and proved something we’ve always believed: When called upon, our team can deliver – even in uncharted territory. It showcased our versatility and reinforced our reputation as a solutions-driven company.
Over the past five decades, Structural Systems Ltd has weathered economic recessions, competition from across the world, hurricanes, and a rapidly evolving industry. Through it all, the company has adapted, strengthened its systems, and remained committed to excellence.
The steel industry is demanding, but the Structural Systems team, guided by shared vision and divine purpose, has consistently risen to the occasion.
Shaping the Region: Industry Impact and Contribution
Structural Systems Ltd has become much more than a builder, it has become a change-maker within the steel and construction industries across the Caribbean.
From the outset, the company recognised the untapped potential of steel as a primary building material in the region. At a time when concrete and timber dominated, Structural Systems Ltd introduced pre-engineered steel buildings, a game-changing solution that revolutionised how projects were designed and delivered. These systems reduced construction time, optimised material use, and offered unmatched durability in the face of Caribbean climate challenges.
As one of the few fully integrated steel fabrication and erection companies in the region, Structural Systems Ltd has set new benchmarks for safety, structural integrity, and efficiency. With in-house design, detailing, fabrication, and installation, the company delivers end-to-end solutions with precision and excellence.
Expanding Across Sectors
The company’s reach spans an impressive variety of sectors:
• Aviation & Maritime: Airports and seaports requiring skill, safety, and precision
• Education & Community: Schools, training centres, and resilient shelters
• Continued on next page.
THE MASSY Supercentre Complex at Warrens, St Michael, is one of the many projects across the country that showcases the work of Structural Systems Limited. Below, Mark Hinkson, Managing Director. (FP)
• From Page 6C.
• Retail & Service: Gas stations, supermarkets, and speciality commercial units
• Residential Innovation: Steel stud homes that marry speed, strength, and sustainability
Each project contributes to raising the standard for construction in the Caribbean. Structural Systems Ltd has earned the trust of both public and private sector clients and continues to lead the way in construction with the aid of advanced technology and machinery.
Building a stronger industry
Beyond construction, Structural Systems Ltd has invested deeply in skills development and industry growth. The company is a committed partner in vocational training and technical education, hiring and mentoring young professionals and trades people across the region.
Sustainability in Steel
As the company looks ahead, sustainability is at the heart of its mission.
Steel is one of the most recyclable materials in the world, with the ability to be reused and repurposed without losing strength or quality. From hurricane-resistant frames to lowmaintenance roofing systems, steel offers durability and energy efficiency that protect both people and the planet.
Thus, at Structural Systems Ltd, sustainability starts at the design stage, where efficient use of materials, reduced waste, and longevity are built into every structure. The company actively promotes the circular economy, and uses recycled materials wherever possible, while working to reduce its operational carbon footprint in alignment with global environmental goals.
Moving forward, our focus is firmly on legacy and longevity as we celebrate this golden milestone. With continued investment in our people, advanced technology, and regional expansion, the company is laying the foundation for a sustainable, purpose-driven future.
As managing director, it brings me immense pride and gratitude to personally thank each and every one of you our dedicated team both past and present, loyal clients, trusted partners, and the wonderful people of Barbados for walking this journey with us. You have been the pillars of our growth and success over the past 50 years. Above all, we give heartfelt thanks to Almighty God, whose favour and grace have guided us every step of the way. Without Him, none of this would be possible.
At 50 years, we remember that at the heart of everything we do:
“Our product is steel, but our strength is our people.”
CONGRATS
The highest quality products coupled with consistent service!
THE SSL ERECTION CREW working on one of the many Digicel Towers erected by SSL across the island. (GP)
AIRCRAFT HANGAR at Grantley Adams International Airport. (GP)
STERLING SOBERS , Chief Engineer and Design Manager. (SL)
by STERLING SOBERS , Chief Engineer and Design Manager
Structural Systems Limited (SSL) is a premier supplier of prefabricated steel structures and metal goods in the Caribbean, with 50 years of expertise. SSL has consistently provided reliable, high-quality steel structures for diverse sectors, including commercial, industrial, residential, and agricultural construction, across the region.
Whilst no day at Structural Systems is the same, collaboration with architects, contractors, and other engineering professionals is fundamental to the success of every building project. Prior to the erection or fabrication of any structure, extensive hours are dedicated to drawing coordination, technical evaluations, and on-site inspections to guarantee that the project vision is both secure and feasible. Site visits also serve as a platform for face-to-face collaboration with contractors, project managers, and other stakeholders. Questions can be answered on the spot, and any issues that arise can be resolved more efficiently with all parties present. This open line of communication fosters trust, improves teamwork, and ultimately contributes to a smoother project timeline.
As steel structures are the backbone of modern construction, from towering office buildings to sprawling warehouses and intricate bridges, it is imperative for stakeholders that these structures receive engineering competence and understanding. Therefore, before a single beam is lifted into place, an essential process takes place behind the scenes at Structural Systems: structural design. The designs initiate in the Design Department of SSL, where the supplied information, usually architectural and/or engineering drawings, is examined.
No day is the same for me at SSL. Still, one thing stays the same: I must ensure that the structures I design are safe and strong enough to last, especially here in the Caribbean, where natural hazards occur annually. Steel is the material used in my designs as it is strong and can be used in a wide range of buildings, from factories to homes. But it’s not enough to just choose the right size beam or column when I use steel in my designs. How a building acts under all the forces it might face over its lifetime is what it’s all about.
Where I begin is understanding the forces that will affect the building. There’s the dead load, which is the weight of the building itself, like the floors, walls, and roof. How people use the building, furniture moving, or heavy equipment rolling across the floor, these are called live loads. These loads can vary, so I need to make sure the structure can handle that.
Wind loads are also very important, especially here in the Caribbean, as we get ready for hurricane season every year. There is a need to make sure that any building we plan can handle the kind of force that can compromise a building. Comparatively, steel is a great material as it’s more likely to bend before it breaks, unlike timber and even concrete. Additionally, when I design a steel structure, thought goes into how the bolts, welds, and plates hold everything together.
I use something called “factored loads”, which means I build in extra room in my calculations to account for the unexpected. This is part of the design accommodates for the Ultimate Limit State (ULS) and makes sure that the building can stand up to extreme events like hurricanes or heavy weather. The Serviceability Limit State (SLS), on the other hand, makes sure that the building works well in normal situations. These two checks help me design steel structures that are safe and comfortable for the stakeholders, who will ultimately be the people using them.
At Structural Systems Limited, every project begins with collaboration and careful analysis to ensure structures are not only efficient and economical but also resilient against the region’s intense environmental forces, ensuring safety during extreme events and performance in everyday use. With over 50 years of experience, SSL continues to be a trusted leader in shaping the building environment across the Caribbean, delivering durable, high-performance steel solutions tailored to our region’s needs, and I am proud to be a part of this team.
A day in the life of a structural engineer
Mark Hinkson, Managing Director; Nicholas Branson, & Director of Operations WII). (Sitting from left), Leacock.)
STORES DEPARTMENT: (From left), Keith Greenidge, Anderson Worrell, Clint Springer, Cedrick Hinds, Hainsley Sobers, Colin Johnson (Stores Manager) and Ahri McIntosh (SL)
SALES & ESTIMATING DEPARTMENT: (From left), Jason King, Ondre Spooner, Rakina King, Nicholas Branson (SSL Director and Sales & Estimating Manager) and Robert Godson (Senior Estimator)
MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT: (From left), Terry Laurent, Tian Burgess, Neil Pile, Adrian Pilgrim, Shurlon Webster, Shanice Knight and Bernard Walcott (Maintenance Supervisor) (SL)
DESIGN DEPARTMENT: (From left), David Lyder, Mario Belgrave, Harold Archer, Sterling Sobers (Chief Engineer & Design Manager), Lamar Worrell and Charlene Hinkson. (SL)
ADMINISTRATION: (From left), Mark Hinkson, Nicole NichollsHinds, Tanya Luke and Kenneth Millar. (SL)
Reynold Supervisor); Bernard (Manufacturing
PRODUCTION TEAM: (From left), Bruce Reece, (MEP Foreman); Aldric Barnett, (Production Manager); Jillian Nicholls, (MEP Supervisor), and Nicholas Clarke (Manufacturing Supervisor) - Missing is Ranako Cummins (MEP Foreman). Inset left, Ranako Cummins. (SL, GP)
MEP SALES TEAM: (From left), Jean-Pierre Layne, Ann Lashley, Suzanne Best, and Shane Forde, (MEP Sales Manager). (SL)
Gollop, Nicholas Clarke, Holder, Charlene
SUSAN BOYCE , Network Administrator. (SL)
IN APRIL 1988, I took my first steps into the world of work under the guidance of the late George Gittens, a respected supervisor at C.O. Williams Electrical Ltd. My first assignment was the renovation of the iconic Sam Lord’s Castle Hotel, a fitting start for a career that would soon become deeply rooted in another cornerstone of Barbadian industry, Structural Systems Limited
After just a few weeks at Sam Lord’s, I was sent to assist Stephen Osbourne and Joseph “Doc” Hoyos at Structural Systems. That initial assignment sparked a connection, and by 1989, I was officially transferred to SSL, becoming a permanent member of the team.
Working closely with Mr Osbourne, my skills in maintenance and troubleshooting were honed. More than just technical training, this period shaped my professional values and work ethic principles, which I still live by
I’VE BEEN A proud member of the Structural Systems Erection team for the past 17 years.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working on many incredible projects across the island, but a few that really stand out are the Solar Power Plant at Trents, St Lucy, and the Bushy Park Racing Circuit. Projects like these remind me just how impactful our work is – not just in steel and concrete, but in shaping spaces that people use, enjoy, and remember.
Structural Systems Ltd has taught me the true value of teamwork and the importance of paying close attention to detail – two qualities that are essential not only for delivering high-quality work but for maintaining a safe and professional work environment.
It’s an amazing feeling to watch a once-empty site turn into something meaningful, knowing that you helped make it happen. That’s what makes the job so rewarding. So today, I want to say a heartfelt congratulations to Structural Systems on 50 incredible years. Here’s to the legacy we’ve built and to all that’s still to come.
Happy 50th anniversary!
TANYA LUKE
– Purchasing Officer & Office Manager - Cont’d
• From Page 15C.
people encapsulates the heart of SSL. Team members’ skills and initiative have always been nurtured and recognised to maximise the potential of everyone and every component. Regardless of position, we are all expected to contribute to the common goal of success, growth, development, and improvement of the business, to provide our clients with the highest quality product or service.
In my view, it is the relationships that we have, many of which are very longstanding, with our clients, suppliers and each other, that are essential and have allowed us to still be successful after 50 years. As purchasing officer, I especially extend my gratitude to all our suppliers for your support and appreciation of your role in our success. To all of my fellow team members, both current and past, I thank you for your contributions and friendship.
I am proud of and thankful for the achievements of our team and pray that through the grace of God and our commitment, our success continues and propels us to move forward for many years to come.
decades later.
When Mr Osbourne moved on to Williams Industries Inc., the torch was passed, and I was promoted to senior maintenance technician and began reporting to then-manager, Michael Marshall. Shortly after, with Mr Marshall’s departure, I rose to the role of maintenance supervisor, a position I hold proudly to this day.
With over three decades of service, my journey reflects the heart of Structural Systems Ltd: dedication, mentorship, growth, and legacy. My handson experience continues to support the company’s operations, and I will continue to do so by God’s grace.
BERNARD WALCOTT (SL)
JASON HEADLEY (SL)
IHAVE BEEN working at Structural Systems Limited for the past 30 years in the Erection Department. On a day-to-day basis, my duties involve erecting steel structures and installing Permaclad roof sheeting.
Work over the years has evolved with the use of modern technology. In earlier days, I recall having to physically climb the steel structures, however, the use of Cherry-Picker (Lifts) has made the job a lot easier and safer.
Throughout my years with the company, the management of the Department included K.D Saul, Gregory “Monty” Farnum, Nicholas Shepherd and the current, Jason Holder.
Some of the projects the company has worked on during the years included repairs to several schools, pavilions, the Barbados Rum Refinery and Portvale Sugar Factory. One of the most interesting jobs would have been the transformation at Harrison Point into a temporary prison following the fire at HM Glendairy Prison. All hands were on deck as the work was done on a shift basis.
On any given day, the success of the projects is dependent on team effort and collaboration amongst various departments.
The nature of the job allows me to interact with various individuals and become familiar with several new places. Even though most of my work is outdoors, the company has provided additional personal development support in the areas of seminars and training workshops.
My journey at Structural Systems Limited has been rewarding overall, even though it is a bit challenging at times. As Structural Systems Limited celebrates its 50th anniversary, I join my colleagues in wishing the company continued success.
AS THE MARKETING Officer for Williams Industries Inc., I’ve had the privilege of being part of this dynamic group for the past year and six months. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to work with several companies under the Williams Industries umbrella, but being part of the planning committee for Structural Systems Limited’s 50th anniversary has truly been a standout experience.
Though my journey here is still unfolding, it has already become clear to me that Structural Systems’ motto, Our Product is Steel but Our Strength is Our People, is far more than just words. It’s a living principle that shapes the company’s culture, the dedication to quality, and the way it embraces progress with pride and purpose.
Helping to coordinate the anniversary celebrations has deepened my appreciation for the legacy, innovation, and unwavering commitment that have defined Structural Systems Limited for the past five decades. It has been an honour to play a role in commemorating this incredible milestone and to witness the power of a company built on strong values and even stronger people.
Here’s to 50 years of excellence and the bright
AS WE CELEBRATE our 50th Anniversary, we give God thanks. Structural Systems Ltd is the second oldest company in The William’s Group of companies, which prides itself in the fabrication of steel buildings and all things metal.
On this 50th anniversary, I reflect on a journey that began 46 years ago with an unbroken service of nearly 40 years. I first graced the doors of Structural when I was given an opportunity by the then-production and workshop manager, David Reece.
My job as senior machine operator sees me providing components throughout the company and allows me the opportunity to dabble in drawings using AutoCAD, but it is my love for heavy machines that has made my job satisfying.
Our steel buildings have dotted the landscape of Barbados and the wider Caribbean, withstanding some of the most ferocious hurricanes to hit our region.
I must give kudos to the workforce that from the inception of the company, have given sterling contributions and left indelible marks on the company. Many have retired, some have passed on, and others like me, in the twilight of our journey within the company, have seen the changing of the guard in our workplace, but as we celebrate our 50th anniversary, my prayer is for continual success. Acknowledging more than ever, we are facing a more competitive industry, but God’s grace has brought us through thus far and His grace will continue to lead us on.
MARK PARRIS, Erection Sheeter
MARK PARRIS (SL)
ERIC MAYNARD (SL)
PETER HOYTE (SL)
Activities to mark 50 years of SSL
1
UNVEILING CEREMONY
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY Logo Unveiling Ceremony was an intimate affair held on Tuesday April 1, 2025 at Structural Systems Limited. Invited guests included directors of Williams Industries Inc., Directors of Structural Systems Limited (SSL), the SSL management staff and last, but certainly not least, the founder and chairman of Williams Industries Inc., The Most Honourable Dr Ralph “Bizzy” Williams.
The ceremony opened with a prayer by Rakina King, and welcome remarks were expressed by the Managing Director, Mark Hinkson. John Francis, chairman of the SSL Board of Directors, shared proud sentiments of the successes achieved by SSL over the five decades.
Finally, the anticipated 50th anniversary logo was revealed by Dr Ralph “Bizzy” Williams and Colin Johnson, SSL’s stores manager and the longest serving employee with 46 years of service. Following the reveal, an emotional Dr Williams shared how the company started, its progression through the years, and he concluded by
MANAGEMENT AND STAFF at the Structural Systems Limited’s 50th anniversary church service. At left is founder and chairman Ralph ‘Bizzy Williams. (Picture
thanking those persons who would have played an integral part in the company’s development from inception to the present.
2. THANKSGIVING SERVICE
ON Sunday 6 April 2025 the management and staff of Structural Systems Limited (SSL) gathered to give God thanks for preserving the company for 50 years. This 50th anniversary Thanksgiving Service was held at The Mount of Praise Wesleyan Holiness Church, which was symbolic for SSL, as the roof of the church was designed and erected by the company. The senior pastor, Rev. Dr McAthin Hinds, gave the congregation a warm welcome, acknowledging the company for 50 years of its excellent service to the Barbadian people. Rev. Dr Hinds sentiments were further concreted when Assistant Pastor Rev. Ronnie Quimby delivered a dynamic and inspiring message surrounding “Excellence in Service”. In his message, based on Daniel 6:1-3 and Genesis 39, Rev. Quimby correlated the scripture about Daniel and Joseph and the type of service they provided, even though they were “enslaved” in a foreign country, with everyday life. He noted that excellence honours God and encouraged the congregants to constantly strive to provide exceptional service every day in all aspects of life with the help of three components: our attitude,
