Shelter Systems Limited Celebrates 50 Years

Shelter Systems Limited, a third generation family-owned component manufacturing operation, marked an impressive milestone recently, welcoming approximately 300 employees, customers, community leaders, friends, and family members to its 50th Anniversary celebration in Westminster, Maryland, on Friday, July 24, 2026.

The event felt like a true community gathering. Six food trucks served guests delicious local picks throughout the afternoon, giant lawn games gave attendees a chance to relax and have some fun, a great DJ kept the energy going, and a perfectly designed cake rounded out the celebration. The casual atmosphere made it easy for people to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate the relationships that have helped shape Shelter Systems over the past five decades.

Those relationships were especially evident in the wide range of people who attended. “Seeing current and former employees, families, customers, and community partners together really reinforced that Shelter Systems’ 50-year story is about more than what we build, it’s about the people and relationships behind it,” said Tony Acampa, Shelter Systems’ Design Manager.

The structural building components industry was well represented, too, with fellow SBCA and NFC members attending the celebration. Their presence was another reminder of the strong friendships and professional relationships Shelter Systems has developed across the industry over the years.

A special presentation mid-afternoon brought everyone together to look back on the history of Shelter Systems. Jason Hikel emceed as the Hikels (Linda, Joe, and Ryan) and others shared stories and memories from Shelter Systems’ first 50 years, offering a personal look at the people, decisions, and experiences that helped build the company.

One of the highlights of the presentation was a professionally produced video focused on the Shelter Family. Featuring the people behind the company and a few component industry giants, the video underscored how much that sense of family means to those who work there and how deeply it has become part of the company’s culture.

“From the beginning, our goal was to make the celebration about more than Shelter Systems,” said Tony. “We wanted everyone who attended to leave knowing they are an important part of our history, that this milestone belongs to all of us.”

The afternoon also included special recognition for Joe Hikel, who was presented with the National Eagle Scout Association Outstanding Eagle Scout Award. The award recognizes Eagle Scouts who have demonstrated outstanding achievement and service in their profession and community, making it an especially meaningful honor during a celebration centered on leadership, relationships, and service. “It was very special to present my father the 2026 NESA Eagle Scout award,” said Jason Hikel, Shelter Systems’ IT Director and one of Joe’s sons. “As a lifelong Scout, it was an honor to be a part of that award ceremony and connect our family's commitment to scouting with our company's support of the Scouting journey as a whole.” 

Throughout the afternoon, there was a clear sense that the event was about much more than marking 50 years in business. It was a celebration of the people who built Shelter Systems, those who have supported it along the way, and the relationships that continue to move the company forward. 

After five decades, Shelter Systems has plenty of history to celebrate, but the anniversary gathering made one thing particularly clear: the people and the sense of family surrounding the company remain at the heart of its story. As Shelter Systems looks toward its next chapter, that strong foundation is paired with a continued focus on innovation and growth. 

“I’m excited about continuing to live up to our company tagline, ‘Modern Technology for Today’s Builder,’ while expanding Shelter Systems’ reputation as a premier component manufacturer,” said Jason.

Acampa also sees significant opportunities ahead for the next generation of the company and the industry. “I’m excited about the next generation of Shelter Systems,” said Tony. “Our industry continuously evolves quickly through technology, automation, and collaborative ways of designing and manufacturing components. We have an incredible opportunity to build on 50 years of experience while continuing to develop our people and embrace what’s next.”