Established in 2003 in St. Louis, Missouri, by Tom Vossmeyer, International Design Services, Inc., (IDS) grew from a desire to provide the highest quality detailing and connection design services for steel fabricators in the U.S. and around the world.

Tom built IDS from the ground up. IDS began in a small rental space, but through Tom’s hard work and dedication, the company moved to a beautiful mid-rise glass building in St. Louis, then quickly expanded into the adjoining suite. Tom was very proud the day IDS moved from his small start-up space to its very own suite.

IDS’s first major landmark project was the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis in 2006. IDS grew to 100 employees by 2006 and installed their first Tekla license in the same year. By 2021 IDS had grown to more than 500 employees with over 250 Tekla licenses. The IDS Team also installed their first SDS2 license in 2012 and now supports over 150 licenses.

Tom ran his business like he lived his life, with a thirst for knowledge and the zest for IDS to become the best steel-detailing firm in the world. When Tom walked into a room, he made his presence known with his booming voice and boisterous personality. He is greatly missed by his family and all the employees he hired and mentored throughout the years.

Tom trained and equipped his daughter, Michelle Smith, to take over the business after his passing. He knew she was up to the challenge and would have the same amount of passion he had for IDS. IDS ownership transferred to Michelle in 2018, and in 2019 IDS received the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council certification.

The future of IDS remains bright under the wise leadership of Michelle. The company continues to expand its team, capabilities, and portfolio.