Our Story

Over a Century of Excellence Providing Shade Solutions

At Goodwin-Cole Company, Inc., our mission is clear:

"Goodwin-Cole builds innovative solutions of excellence from start to finish, meeting and exceeding our customers’ expectations with products of the highest value, delivered on time."

For more than 130 years, we've combined craftsmanship, innovation, and a dedication to customer satisfaction that has set us apart.

Our Legacy: A Journey Through Time

  • 1888

    Founding in Kansas City: Our story began as expert tent and awning makers, providing essential canvas products for daily life.

  • 1920

    Moving West to California: Recognizing opportunity, our founders relocated to Sacramento, solidifying our roots and expanding our capabilities.

  • 1952

    Becoming Goodwin-Cole: Tom Goodwin and Robert Cole partnered, giving our company its lasting name and vision.

  • 1970s-80s

    Adaptation and Innovation: As air conditioning changed market demands, we diversified, embracing advanced materials and technologies to provide cutting-edge shade solutions.

  • 2000s - Today

    Continued Expansion: From motorized retractable pergolas to specialized industrial covers (including protective covers for U.S. Air Force drones), we consistently evolve with customer needs and industry advancements.

  • 2025

    Goodwin-Cole acquires GPS Specialty Construction Inc., which specializes in pitched fabric and metal awnings, horizontal aluminum awnings with tie-rods, and custom aluminum canopies.

  • Present Day

    A Trusted Local Manufacturer: Now headquartered at our state-of-the-art facility in Sacramento, we remain proudly veteran-owned, continuing a legacy of American craftsmanship and local manufacturing excellence.

Our Core Values

Quality Craftsmanship

We maintain rigorous standards, ensuring every product meets our exacting criteria for durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.

Innovation & Adaptability

We constantly integrate the latest technologies and materials into our products, staying ahead of trends to serve our customers best.

Customer & Community Focus

Our success is deeply rooted in strong relationships. We believe in honest communication, reliable service, and giving back to the community that has supported us for decades.

Featured Projects

Custom Outdoor Dining Shade Structure

Custom Outdoor Stadium Shade Structure

Custom Outdoor Shade Sail

Custom Retractable Awnings Over Outdoor Dining Areas

Custom Outdoor Dining Area Roller Shades.

Proudly Veteran-Owned & Community-Focused

We proudly identify as a veteran-owned business, bringing integrity, discipline, and leadership to every project. Our longstanding ties to Sacramento motivate us to continually engage with and support our local community.

Meet Our Team

Behind every successful project is our dedicated team, a diverse group of experienced professionals who take pride in every stitch and weld. From our leadership to skilled artisans, we work collaboratively to ensure the finest outcomes for our customers.

Bob Cole

Founder

Dan Cole

Owner

Jeff Cole

VP of Operations

Jeanne Reaves

Business Consultant