Badger State

Company Overview

Focusing on:
- Solar Power Systems
- Plumbing Professionals
- Heating Specialists
- Mechanical Contractors
- Cooling System Experts
- Industrial Plumbing Contractors
- Heating Solutions
- Boiler Components
- Industrial Construction Contractors
- Boiler Distributors

Fritz Gardner, the founder Badger State, Inc., launched his plumbing career in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1952. In 1964, he started Fritz the Plumber, operating with just one truck and expanded his business into a top plumbing contractor in the Milwaukee area before moving to Eau Claire and founding Badger State, Inc. in 1977. The business thrived due to hard work and innovative ideas. In the late 1990s, Fritz stepped down, leaving a heritage of proud achievements to his son, the current president, who now leads the company.

In 2007, Badger State, Inc. transferred operations to a modern spacious facility with a prefabrication shop. Bryant and Crystal Gardner are both active in the business and are in the process to become the third generation to lead the company.

Fred Gardner joined Badger State, Inc. in the late 1970s as a trainee and earned his master plumber's license in 1987. Fred continues the tradition of high standards in workmanship, professionalism, and ethics in the plumbing and heating industry serving Northwest Central Wisconsin. Fred is engaged in the industry and holds positions on the Eau Claire Heating Examiners Board, the Eau Claire Area Plumbing Joint Apprenticeship Committee, and the Wisconsin code advisory board. Like his father, Fred also serves on the PHCC Wisconsin Association Board and is a past president of this esteemed association.