Dave celebrates “Innovation in America” with James Golinveaux, CEO of Viking Group Inc. of Caledonia, Michigan. Viking has been in business since 1924 and is celebrating 100 years in fire protection. Dave and James discuss fire protection, fire research, residential fire-safety, lithium-ion residential fires, and training using virtual reality. The Viking Group provides independent fire sprinkler contractors with integrated solutions for nearly any fire protection challenge.

Origins in Innovation: Emil Tyden’s Vision

The origins of the Viking Group Inc. can be traced back to the industrious efforts of Emil Tyden, a Swedish immigrant who arrived in the United States in the 1880s. Tyden's initial venture was the development of an innovative railroad car seal in Chicago. This invention marked the beginning of Tyden's long journey in the field of industrial innovation. By the late 1890s, Tyden relocated to Hastings, Michigan, following a business proposition that promised greater opportunities. There, he established the International Seal and Lock Company to manufacture his patented seals.

Tyden's knack for innovation did not stop at seals. He created one of the world’s first automation systems, a significant achievement predating Henry Ford’s mass production of automobiles by a decade. This pioneering spirit laid a robust foundation for Tyden's future endeavors.

Turning Tragedy into Opportunity: The Birth of The Viking Corporation

In 1920, a devastating fire razed Tyden's factory, leading to a pivotal moment in his career. Determined to address the vulnerabilities exposed by the fire, Tyden shifted his focus to the fire sprinkler business. He acquired The Viking Corporation after recognizing the potential in a struggling business introduced to him by a St. Louis businessman who had developed designs for fire sprinklers and valves. Under Tyden's leadership, The Viking Corporation began manufacturing fire sprinklers and valves in Hastings, marking the company's official entry into the fire protection industry.

Expansion and Contractor Collaboration

Tyden's strategy for growth involved partnering with talented "sprinklermen" across the United States. This approach enabled Viking to rapidly develop a network of highly qualified contractors who were instrumental in installing Viking’s fire protection systems. This contractor-focused model remained in place until the mid-1960s, contributing significantly to the company’s rapid expansion and solid reputation in the industry.

Global Expansion: Viking SupplyNet and Beyond

In the early 1990s, Viking took a significant step toward global expansion by founding Viking SupplyNet. This entity served as the exclusive distributor of Viking products and related fire protection components. Viking SupplyNet International was also created to extend the company's reach globally. Today, Viking SupplyNet operates over thirty wholly owned locations worldwide and collaborates with a vast network of independent distributors, ensuring the availability of Viking products on a global scale.

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