New Zealand-founded seismic technology company Tectonus, has secured a minority investment from California-based The Herrick Corporation - one of the United States’ most established structural steel fabricators. The partnership signals growing confidence in Tectonus’ high-performance damping systems for critical infrastructure and commercial buildings in seismic regions.
Originally spun out of the University of Auckland, after the Christchurch earthquakes, Tectonus develops structural solutions for high-importance buildings that reduce total construction cost - while improving seismic resilience.
Tectonus has delivered projects across New Zealand, Canada, the USA and Japan - spanning new builds and complex retrofits. In the United States, its technology has secured HCAI (formerly OSHPD) approval following extensive full-scale testing - positioning it for use in California hospital projects.
Collaborative and non-exclusive partnership
In announcing the partnership, The Herrick Corporation has taken a minority equity stake in Tectonus, forming a collaborative and non-exclusive partnership that should see both parties grow market share.
“Herrick Corporation has an iconic project portfolio spanning over 100 years that includes buildings such as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Walt Disney Concert Hall,” says Tectonus CEO Carl Beck. “In New Zealand, through a joint venture with Culham Engineering, Herrick has contributed to major projects such as Commercial Bay and the New Zealand International Convention Centre.”
Steel-braced frames remain one of the most common lateral systems in seismic regions of the United States. Tectonus offers a cost-competitive alternative that delivers improved damping, lower overstrength, and enhanced post-earthquake performance.
According to Carl Beck, Tectonus’ long-term US growth strategy has included securing a strategic partner with deep customer relationships, regulatory influence, and manufacturing expertise. Herrick’s investment directly supports that ambition.
Strong industry signal
“When someone like Herrick invests time and money in a company like Tectonus, it says to the entire industry this is real, and it’s time to take notice”, he says. “Ten years ago, Tectonus set out to change the way the world earthquake-proofs buildings, and this is another step on that journey.”
The Herrick Corporation is equally inspired to be part of the Tectonus’ story. “Herrick has been innovating for over 100 years’, says Bob Hazleton, Herrick CEO. “Supporting Tectonus is no different. We’re both motivated to see project teams and clients get the best out of this technology and change the way the world views seismic proofing.”
The investment represents a significant milestone for New Zealand’s advanced manufacturing and engineering export sector, reinforcing the country’s capability to develop globally competitive construction technologies.
Source: https://www.tectonus.com/
