Celebrating a Century of Excellence: The Legacy of United Infrastructure Group

by Rett Triplett, P.E., UIG vice president of strategic partnerships, and Kaitlyn Triplett, UIG marketing manager

This year, United Infrastructure Group, Inc. (UIG) proudly celebrates its 100th anniversary, marking a century of excellence as a leading transportation firm in the Southeastern United States. Specializing in engineering, construction, and alternative project delivery, UIG’s remarkable journey from a small partnership to a prominent design-build leader is rooted in innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to quality and service.

Humble Beginnings and Visionary Leadership
UIG’s story began in 1924 when Frederick Amzi (F.A.) Triplett partnered with R.H. Small to form the Small & Triplett Construction Company. The fledgling firm embarked on its first bridge project in Morristown, Tenn., and soon expanded its footprint across the Southeast. By 1926, Small & Triplett had completed its first major project in South Carolina—the SC 9 bridge over the Catawba River in Chester County. This milestone project laid the foundation for the Triplett family’s enduring legacy in the construction industry.

In 1934, the company transitioned to F.A. Triplett Inc., owned solely by F.A. With only a 7th grade education and an autodidact mindset, F.A. became a trailblazer in bridge construction, shaping the industry until his passing in 1962. His sons, Frederick (Fred) Triplett, Jr. and James Thomas (Tom) Triplett carried on his legacy, ushering in a new era of innovation and growth.

Fred Triplett, a Clemson College graduate, was known for his engineering prowess and inventive spirit. From designing overhead gantry cranes to modifying equipment for disabled veterans, Fred’s contributions exemplified ingenuity and compassion. He co-founded Inland Bridge Company and later formed Bridgebuilders Inc., solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field.

Tom Triplett, also a Clemson alumnus, distinguished himself as an inventor, entrepreneur, and author. With 30 patents to his name, Tom’s innovations spanned barges, cranes, trailers, and even horizontal windmills. In 1978, he consolidated several companies into United Contractors, Inc., the predecessor to UIG. Tom’s patriotic flair and commitment to free enterprise principles left an indelible mark on the industry and his community.

A Legacy of Excellence
The torch was passed to James (Jim) E. Triplett, Tom’s son, who has served as UIG’s CEO since 1995. Under Jim’s leadership, the company expanded by acquiring all active Triplett-family companies and rebranding as United Infrastructure Group, Inc., in 2010. A Clemson graduate with a degree in civil engineering, Jim is recognized as one of the foremost leaders in design-build and bridge construction. His dedication to quality and innovation has been the hallmark of UIG’s success.

Jim’s leadership has seen UIG rise to the challenges of complex infrastructure projects, often mobilizing rapidly for emergency repairs or disaster relief efforts. Whether rebuilding bridges on Christmas Eve or innovating to meet industry demands, UIG consistently delivers excellence.

Innovating for the Future
Bridge construction remains UIG’s core expertise, earning the company accolades as one of the top design-builders in the business. Jim attributes this success to the seamless integration of design and construction, which enables UIG to deliver more buildable and efficient solutions.

Adaptability and forward-thinking have been central to UIG’s longevity. The company has expanded its capabilities to include demolition, culverts, fabrication, and engineering, enhancing its ability to control projects’ quality and timelines. Strategic partnerships with culturally aligned owner-operators have further strengthened UIG’s offerings, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.

UIG’s growth is underpinned by its Christ-centered purpose statement: “Foster growth and diversity in resources and disciplines by developing and motivating exceptional leaders in a Christian environment to achieve excellence by every standard of measure.”

This ethos has shaped the company’s culture, emphasizing integrity, teamwork, and a commitment to making a difference.

Honoring the Past, Building the Future
In 2024, F.A., Fred, and Tom Triplett, along with Jim Triplett, were inducted into the Carolinas AGC Legacy Hall of Fame, a testament to their profound impact on the industry. This recognition underscores the Triplett family’s dedication to advancing infrastructure and fostering a legacy of excellence.

As UIG embarks on its second century, the company remains committed to its core values and visionary leadership. By investing in quality people, cutting-edge technology, and innovative practices, UIG is poised to meet the demands of an ever-evolving industry.

From its humble beginnings to its status as a leader in transportation infrastructure, UIG’s 100-year journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the enduring power of family legacy. The company’s history, deeply rooted in engineering excellence and a Christ-centered culture, serves as a beacon for the future, inspiring the next generation of leaders to build on the foundation laid over the past century.