Hershey Foods Employee Entrance

At KBM Industries, we take pride in delivering custom-fabricated metal solutions that combine technical precision with architectural elegance. One of our recent showcase projects exemplifies that commitment—an employee entrance canopy for the Hershey Foods Technical Training Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Hershey Foods, one of the world’s most recognized names in food manufacturing, approached KBM Industries to fabricate a striking, durable entrance structure that would reflect the company's dedication to both quality and innovation. The scope of work required more than fabrication—it called for a deep understanding of materials, structural design, and high-end finishing to bring the architect’s vision to life.

The canopy itself is a testament to meticulous engineering. Constructed entirely from 304 stainless steel with a concealed hot-rolled steel roof structure, the entrance offers both function and an elevated aesthetic. The canopy’s core framework features 14-inch tall stainless steel beams, including precision cantilevered sections. These beams were custom-built using 5/8" plate flanges and 3/8" plate web, ensuring strength and longevity, even under Pennsylvania’s varied weather conditions.

Fabrication of the beams demanded intensive planning and skill. To meet the project’s exacting standards, we designed and built extensive fixturing systems capable of holding the heavy plates in place during assembly. Roughly 100 clamps were employed to properly position each component before welding could begin. Preheating the material helped minimize stress and distortion during welding—an essential step when working with thick stainless plate.

Our team of certified welders followed engineered welding sequences throughout the process. In some cases, dual welders worked in unison on opposite sides of a beam to balance the heat input and maintain dimensional accuracy. Once cooled, every weld was carefully blended by hand to ensure visual and structural integrity. The final touch was the application of a #4 directional finish across all visible surfaces, delivering a consistent and refined appearance appropriate for a world-class facility.

The project not only demonstrates our technical capabilities but also underscores KBM’s commitment to collaborative success. Working closely with Hershey Foods and the design team, we were able to deliver a custom architectural element that is as functional as it is beautiful. The canopy provides much-needed shelter for employees entering the Technical Training Center while enhancing the exterior of the facility with a polished, modern feature that speaks to Hershey’s values of excellence and care.

The project was completed on schedule and to exact specifications. Hershey Foods has continued to compliment our work, citing both the aesthetic quality and the long-term performance of the structure.

Located in the heart of Hershey, this project is a visible marker of what’s possible when design and fabrication are seamlessly integrated. It also reflects what KBM Industries does best—bridging the gap between complex structural needs and refined architectural presentation.

Whether it's stainless steel canopies, architectural metalwork, or structural steel fabrication, KBM Industries brings decades of expertise and a commitment to craftsmanship that delivers exceptional results every time.

About KBM Industries

Based in Harrisburg, KBM Industries is a trusted, family-owned metal fabrication company serving clients across Central PA. We specialize in everything from custom components and sheet metal work to full-scale steel structure fabrication. No matter the size or scope of the job, our team is committed to delivering reliable, high-quality results with a focus on accuracy, strength, and outstanding service.