Badger State

Company Overview

Focusing on:
- Solar Power Systems
- Plumbing Professionals
- Heating Service Providers
- Mechanical Professionals
- AC Contractors
- Industrial Plumbing Contractors
- Heating Equipment & Systems
- Boiler Systems and Supplies
- Industrial Construction Contractors
- Boiler Suppliers

Frederick E. Gardner, the visionary behind Badger State, Inc., launched his plumbing career in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the early 1950s. In the mid-1960s, he started Fritz the Plumber, operating with just a single vehicle and grew his business into a top plumbing contractor in the region before relocating to Eau Claire and starting Badger State, Inc. in the late 1970s. The business thrived due to hard work and creative ideas. In the late 1990s, Fritz retired, leaving a legacy of proud achievements to his son, Fred Gardner, who now leads the company.

In 2007, Badger State, Inc. moved operations to a modern 14,400 square foot facility with a state-of-the-art prefabrication area. Bryant and Crystal Gardner are both involved in the business and are in the process to become the third generation to manage the company.

Fred Gardner joined Badger State, Inc. in the late 1970s as a plumbing apprentice and received his master plumber's license in the late 1980s. Fred continues the legacy of high standards in craftsmanship, professionalism, and ethics in the plumbing and heating sector serving NW Central Wisconsin. Fred is actively involved in the field 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 is a director on the PHCC Wisconsin Association Board and is a past president of this prestigious association.