Abstract: A method of fabricating reinforced modular and non-modular composite members having a predetermined cross sectional shape, comprising the steps of: providing a source of composite material; selecting a plurality of cross-sectional shapes for the components of the composite member, whereby the components are arrangable to form the predetermined cross sectional shape of the composite member; applying the composite material on each of a plurality of mandrels; curing the composite material to form a plurality of components; attaching a pre-stressing device to at least one of the plurality of components and pre-stressing said component to produce at least one pre-stressed component; arranging the components to form an assembly of the components in the predetermined cross sectional shape of the composite member, wherein the assembly includes the at least one pre-stressed component; applying the composite material to the assembly of components; curing the composite material; and releasing the pre-stressing device.