Our Story
ABOUT US
From boiler works to trailer manufacturing—serving South Texas since 1946.
Ace Welding & Boiler Works
Ace Welding & Trailer Company was founded by E. Paul Fisher in 1946. The company's original name was Ace Welding & Boiler Works. At that time, Mr. Fisher, along with Marvin A. Haas and a handful of welders, worked on various welding jobs throughout South Texas and the San Antonio area.
Boiler maintenance was generally planned for scheduled shutdowns on weekends. The actual work started late Friday afternoon and didn't stop until the job was complete.
In the early 1950s, Mr. Fisher hired Carl Rains, and shortly thereafter Ace started manufacturing cattle trailers. The company built everything from pup-style trailers to double deck and even the famous Ace triple deck hog trailer.
Ace was growing at a fast pace, and Mr. Fisher needed to add employees. Jesus Zavala, Frank Richter, Ruben Richter, Tony Richter, and numerous others were added to Ace's experienced personnel.
Entering Trailer Manufacturing
"No Job Too Big or Too Small"
The company continued to increase in size and profitability during the 1960s. Customers were diverse and ranged from meat packing plants such as Swift and Roegelein, to commercial laundry plants.
Mr. Fisher believed that "no job was too big or too small"—and that slogan became Ace's motto. The second generation of Haas's and Richter's started with the company.
During the 1970s, Ace continued to serve the community and enjoyed moderate growth. Carl retired, and Marvin assumed management of the two shop supervisors, Jesse Zavala and Frank Richter.
Ace honed all segments of the company and added Heil dump bodies, numerous lift gate lines, and other truck equipment items.
Expanding Product Lines
Frank Jackel Joins Ace
In 1979, Marvin hired Frank Jackel as an apprentice welder. Frank received excellent training in everything from welding to trailer work by experienced individuals, including Johnny Haas and Kenneth Richter.
This marked the beginning of a new era of leadership development at Ace.
In 1983, the company was purchased by Anthony Koch, Herbert Koch, and Larry Smith from Mr. Fisher.
The new owners changed the name to Ace Welding & Trailer Co., and the company's growth continued.
A New Chapter
New Leadership
In early 2000, management decided Marvin needed to start grooming his successor. Frank Jackel was identified as the perfect candidate.
In 2002, the operations were handed over to Frank, who today is General Manager and Vice President of the company.
Sadly, Marvin Haas passed away at the age of 87 in January 2013, having worked for over sixty-seven years in all capacities with the company.
His dedication, leadership, and commitment left an indelible mark on the company.
Remembering Marvin
Still Going Strong
Today, the company is experiencing rapid growth and still believes in its motto that "No Job Too Big or Too Small" for the knowledgeable and capable workforce of Ace Welding and Trailer Co.
The loyalty, trust, and friendship that were instrumental in the success of the business from the beginning continue to guide us today.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
Hard Work
From weekend boiler shutdowns to round-the-clock trailer builds—we put in the hours to get the job done right.
Family Culture
The Haas, Richter, Zavala, and Villanueva families—multiple generations working together with loyalty and trust.
No Job Too Big or Too Small
From water tanks to paper presses, from pup trailers to triple-deck hog trailers—we do it all.
Ready to Work With Ace?
Join the generations of customers who trust Ace Welding & Trailer Co. for all their truck and trailer needs.