About SFI

WHO WE ARE

Structural Forte, Inc traces its’ history back over 60 years. We have been helping to build our community through careful and thoughtful design of structures that last. We partnered with Architects and Owners over the years to help bring forth their visions that benefit our community’s safety, education, and entertainment. Our history and past Presidents have instilled in our firm the character, design principals, and ethics that we uphold every day.

1963

Peter A. Suden, Structural Engineer: Peter Suden opened the doors in August. Peter established the founding principles of the firm based on integrity, excellence, and innovation which is still engrained in the firm today. Peter was well respected in the structural engineering community, designing many important structures that we drive by and visit today.
Exterior view of an airport terminal with a modern architectural design featuring curved concrete and glass elements, airline signage, a row of luggage carts, and a few people walking outside on a clear day.

Spokane International Airport Concourse A and B

1978

Dave Golden joins the firm.
Parkade Parking Garage

Parkade Parking Garage

1986

Suden, Golden & Guest was incorporated to expand ownership of the parent firm, Peter A. Suden, Structural Engineer. While adding shareholders to the firm, Peter Suden remained the President and continued to guide the firm to excellence.
A modern wooden building on stilts over water, with a yellow accent, multiple balconies, and large windows, likely a waterfront house or lodge, with sailboats and dock in the background under a clear sky.

Hagadone Corporation Building

1991

Tristan Burton joins the firm.

A tall, modern multi-story office building with rectangular windows and a curved corner. The street in front has parked cars, and a sign reads 'EXIT' on the lower level. Trees and a clear blue sky are visible.

1995

Peter Suden retires after a long-distinguished career. Dave Golden, having worked for the firm for 17 years, takes the reins to guide the firm.

Deaconess Nursing Tower

1997

The firm’s name was changed to in 1997 to reflect the current ownership group. Golden, Graper, and Burton Inc. (GGB)
A large modern multi-story building with numerous balconies stands by the water, with a blue boat docked at a pier in the foreground. The sky is clear and blue.

2008

GGB choose to change their name to Structural Forte, Inc. The goal was to have a firm name that was independent of shareholders. After all, what makes a company is all of its’ employees, not just the shareholders.

Coeur d’Alene Resort

Facade of Shriners Hospitals for Children building with trees and a sidewalk in front.

2014

Dave Golden retires after working for the firm for over 36 years.  Tristan Burton, a 24-year veteran of the firm, assumes the role of President.

Shriners Hospital

2017

Brian Matz joins the firm and brings over 17 years of structural engineering and project management experience with him.
Photo of a city street scene showing a modern building with a rounded corner and large glass windows, a green shuttle bus, traffic lights, pedestrians, and nearby buildings. The building has a sign that reads 'Washington Trust Bank'.

2025

Tristan Burton retires after working for the firm for over 34 years.  Brian Matz, an 8-year veteran of the firm, assumes the role of President.

Spokane Transit Authority Plaza