A thin wall profile member (TPM) with a cross-sectional shape and dimensions constant along its length is pre-constructed for use as a load carrying, weight optimized structural element. The TPM includes at least one main strip and at least one additional strip each having longitudinal reinforcing ribs. The at least one additional strip has a width that does not exceed a width of the at least one main strip and has a thickness that equals or exceeds a thickness of the at least one main strip. The ratio of the width of the at least one additional strip to the width of the at least one main strip has a value greater than 0 and less than or equal to 1. The ratio of the thickness of the at least one additional strip to the thickness of the at least one main strip has a value that is greater than or equal to 1.