Bentonite supplier Wyo-Ben marks 75 years serving infrastructure markets

(UI) — Wyo-Ben, a supplier of sodium bentonite products used in underground construction, water well drilling and environmental applications, is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2026.

Founded in 1951, the family-owned company has grown from a regional bentonite producer into a global supplier serving the oil and gas, water well drilling, civil construction, environmental remediation and wastewater treatment markets.

Headquartered in Billings, Montana, Wyo-Ben operates four bentonite processing facilities in Wyoming and Montana and supplies products used in drilling fluids, trenchless construction and other infrastructure applications.

The company plans to mark the milestone throughout 2026 with events recognizing its employees, customers and company history.

"Our 75th anniversary is more than a milestone — it's a celebration of the people, principles and partnerships that have shaped Wyo-Ben since 1951," President and CEO David Brown said. "We are proud of our history and excited about what lies ahead."

Wyo-Ben said it continues to focus on producing sodium bentonite products while supporting customers across infrastructure, environmental and industrial markets. The company also cited continued investments in innovation, environmental stewardship and operational improvements as part of its long-term growth strategy.

National governance recognition

The anniversary also coincides with national recognition for the company's corporate governance.

Earlier this year, Wyo-Ben received a 2026 Private Company Board of the Year Award from MLR Media during the Private Company Governance Summit in Washington, D.C. The family-owned company was one of seven privately held businesses nationwide selected for the honor, which recognizes excellence in board leadership and governance.

David Brown, Wyo-Ben's president and CEO, accepted the award on behalf of the company's board, employees and shareholders.

"This recognition reflects the strength of Wyo-Ben's leadership and governance culture," Brown said. "For 75 years, our company has been guided by long-term stewardship, sound decision-making and a commitment to creating lasting value for our employees, customers, shareholders and communities."

Brown said Wyo-Ben strengthened its governance nearly two decades ago by appointing a majority of independent outside directors to its seven-member board.

"That decision helped shape the company we are today and strengthened our ability to grow while remaining true to the principles that have defined Wyo-Ben for generations," he said.

The award recognizes privately held companies that demonstrate strong governance practices, strategic leadership and long-term stewardship. Other 2026 recipients included Benco Dental, U.S. Venture, Edmund Optics, ThermFlo Inc./Zonatherm Products, Kingsbury Inc. and MSA Professional Services.

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