Mill Steel Named One of West Michigan’s Best and Brightest for the 22nd Year!
We are proud to share that Mill Steel Company has once again been recognized as one of West Michigan’s 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For! This marks our 22nd consecutive year receiving this distinguished honor — a testament to our ongoing commitment to excellence in the workplace. Over the years, we’ve also been the proud recipients of several Elite Awards, further showcasing the strength of our culture and our people.
Each year, an independent research firm evaluates company entries based on key benchmarks such as communication, work-life balance, employee education, diversity, and more. Mill Steel continues to outperform national averages in multiple categories — a reflection of our dedication to improvement and innovation.
This achievement wouldn’t be possible without the incredible Mill Steel team. Your passion, perseverance, and pursuit of progress inspire everything we do. Thank you for helping us build a workplace where people thrive and make a lasting impact.
Mansfield Receives ISO Certification
Congratulations to our Mill Steel Team in Mansfield, Ohio for successfully receiving ISO 9001:2015 Certification. The work in becoming accredited is not an easy task. Over the last year, our Mansfield team has worked to develop and implement the processes and procedures necessary in achieving this industry standard. We are proud of their accomplishment as this position’s Mill Steel for continued growth in the marketplace and opens the door for new customers and new awards!
Associate Highlight
Courtney Smith, Outside Sales Representative (BPG and MSSA)
What is your role here at Mill Steel?
I am an Outside Sales Representative for both MSSA and BPG. I am the first hybrid salesperson in Mill Steel Company who is a part of two divisions. What do you like best about your job? What is the biggest challenge? My favorite part of being an outside sales representative is being able to go and visit customers. I truly have loved getting the chance to build relationships and have found several good friends along the way. My biggest challenge is myself. I am my worst critic, if I don’t hit my personal goals, I tend to be hard on myself. Where are you from and who makes up your family?
I was born and raised in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, in a small suburb outside of Pittsburgh. My husband’s
Hello My Name Is
Name: Alexia Ofield
name is Todd, and we have a 20-yearold daughter, Keiton, and a 17-yearold son, Sutton.
What's your favorite way to spend a weekend?
My favorite way to spend a weekend is riding my bike with my girlfriends, hanging out at the beach, going kayaking and paddle boarding.
Do you have a favorite family tradition?
One of my favorite family traditions began when my kids were little. Whenever they wanted a milkshake, they had to sing "Milkshake" by Kelis. It’s a silly tradition that still brings us joy to this day.
What was your favorite movie as a child? What is your favorite movie now as an adult?
My favorite movie as a child was Mary Poppins. My favorite movie now is Gangs of New York. What would you name the autobiography of your life? What would the first or last sentence say?
I would name my autobiography Hot Mess Express, All Aboard. The last sentence would be: And she finally became the little engine that could!
What animal best represents you today and why?
I believe that the animal that best represents me is an elephant. There is no door that I won’t break down and
I’m loud, so you’ll always know when I’m around. That being said, if I were an elephant I would always try to be mindful of others.
What’s a work lesson you’ve had to learn the hard way?
Always make sure to double and triple check your specs! When sending very expensive loads of stainless steel to people who need it, take the time to ensure that it is right. I once sent a load of blanks without the PVC that was ordered, and it ended up being a very costly mistake. I was very fortunate to have a boss who was compassionate and used it as a teaching moment. It’s been 10 years, and it hasn’t happened again!
Location & Department:
QUALITY INTERN / GRAND RAPIDS
Alexia is a junior at Hope College and plans to graduate in 2027 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. She currently lives in Ada, MI and is excited to grow professionally through this experience. In addition to her academic pursuits, she works as an on-campus barista and loves making coffee and other drinks. In her free time, she enjoys spending her time reading. Her family owns two dogs and a cat, Tink! Summer is her favorite season because she loves warm evening walks. On her way home from work, she looks forward to spending time with family and playing pickleball with friends. Alexia’s favorite place in Michigan is Michigamme Township, where her family owns a cabin.
Name: Benji Zorn
Location & Department:
INSIDE SALES INTERN / GRAND RAPIDS
Benji is a junior at Ferris State University where he is studying Business Administration with a minor in Professional Sales and a certificate in Data Analytics. He was born in Iowa but currently lives in Grand Rapids for his internship. Benji stays very involved in the sales program at Ferris and is excited to get real life work experience. In his free time, he enjoys disc golfing, any activity that involves water, and spending time with his friends and family. He has two dogs, a Labradoodle named Daphne, and a Bernedoodle named Zoey. His favorite place in Michigan is Pentwater, where he has shared fond memories with his family. An interesting fact about Benji is that he is the 2024 college disc golf national champion.
Courtney with her husband.
Courtney and her family celebrating her husbands 50th Birthday at Chuck E Cheese (dressed in 70s theme).
Hello My Name Is
Name: Bennett Halle
Location & Department:
Logistics
Intern / GRAND RAPIDS
Bennett is a student at Ferris State University with plans to graduate at the end of the summer. He is studying Operations and Supply Chain Management with a concentration in Project Management. Bennett is from Hasting, Michigan and was drawn to Mill Steel with the opportunity to expand his knowledge in the steel and automotive industries. In his free time, he likes to do anything and everything outdoors! He enjoys hammocking, hiking, fishing, skiing, and many more activities. He also likes to spend his free time working out. Bennett has a tuxedo cat named Dough and a Golden Retriever named Holly. Summer is his favorite season as he gets to spend plenty of time outside doing the things that he loves.
Name: Christopher Farrell
Location & Department:
CREDIT INTERN / GRAND RAPIDS
Christopher is from Holland, MI and is a senior at Grand Valley State University. He is majoring in Finance and Accounting and is excited to gain valuable experience as a credit intern at Mill Steel. In his free time, he enjoys playing video games, drawing, and watching TV shows and movies. His favorite season is fall because of the beautiful colors and cool weather. Christopher's favorite place in Michigan is Holland State Park where he shares fond memories with family and friends. A couple of fun facts about Christopher are that he has a twin brother and is a member of Grand Valley’s Esports team for the game Super Smash Bros Ultimate.
Name: Elijah Wallace
Location & Department: INSIDE SALES INTERN / GRAND RAPIDS
Elijah is a junior at Cornerstone University, studying Marketing and Strategic Communication. In his free time, he enjoys staying active through running and working out, as a member of the Cornerstone track and field team. He also loves golfing and spending time on the lake with family and friends. Summer is his favorite season—perfect for his hobbies and attending country music concerts. One of his goals is to complete the Honolulu Marathon before turning 30.
Name: Braiden Hamilton
Location & Department:
LOGISTICS
INERN / GRAND RAPIDS
Braiden is a senior at Grand Valley State University studying General Management. He grew up in Lowell, MI but currently resides in Hudsonville. In his free time, he likes to play golf, soccer, and basketball. He has also just started playing pickleball. Summer is his favorite season because he gets to spend a lot of time outside enjoying all of his hobbies. After a long day he looks forward to working out and volunteering at Woodfield Community Center. Braiden’s favorite place in Michigan is Traverse City because of the shops and the abundance of trails to explore. In the next few years, he hopes to become a soccer or basketball coach for a travel team. A fun fact about Braiden is that he went to England his freshman year of high school and was able to watch the Manchester United soccer game.
Name: Lily Bohen
Location & Department:
Marketing & Design Intern / GRAND RAPIDS
Name: Grace Jones
Location & Department: PURCHASING INTERN / GRAND RAPIDS
Grace is a senior at Grand Valley State University majoring in Supply Chain Management and Management Information Systems. She is originally from Fremont but currently resides in Allendale for her schooling. She has a cat named Chester who is a year old who looks forward to cuddling on her way home from work and school. Summer is her favorite season because she can spend time outside soaking up the sun.
Lily earned her associate degree in December of 2024 then transferred to Grand Valley State University to pursue a double major in Marketing and Management. In her free time, she enjoys staying active with things such as volleyball, lifting weights or golfing. Her favorite season is summer as she loves the warm weather for swimming, going to the beach, and traveling. One day she hopes to travel to all 50 states and every continent. One fun fact about Lily is she played college volleyball at Montcalm Community College. She was the libero for two seasons before transferring to Grand Valley. During her time at Montcalm, she also worked as a student ambassador, balancing the roles of student, athlete, and employee!
Name: Lucas Stecker
Location & Department: Quality Intern / GRAND RAPIDS
Lucas is finishing his junior year at Hope College, where he is pursuing a double major in Business and Psychology. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, reading, and all things sports-related. His favorite season is summer, as it allows him to spend time outdoors doing what he loves most. Lucas’s favorite place in Michigan is Holland, thanks to its beautiful downtown, scenic beach, and close proximity to campus. He has a mini Goldendoodle named Charlie and hopes to run a marathon someday.
They're Engaged!
Congratulations to Lauren Trubiro and her new fiancé, Ryan, on their engagement!
After a morning spent hiking Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios and exploring the Blue Hole in Saint Ann, Ryan popped the question at the top of the waterfall! The couple then celebrated by climbing back down and jumping into several sections of the falls. Lauren and Ryan plan to tie the knot on September 19, 2026, at Thornapple Pointe. We wish you all the best as you begin this exciting new chapter together!
The Klotzes!
Congratulations to Levi Klotz and his new wife, Taylor, on their wedding! The couple tied the knot on April 26, 2025, at Adelaide Pointe in Muskegon—a perfect location between Cadillac, Levi’s hometown, and Indiana, where Taylor is from. One of their favorite parts of the day was the reception, where they had the chance to connect with all their loved ones who came to support them. Following the celebration, they enjoyed a relaxing honeymoon on the beautiful island of Kauai, just off the coast of Hawaii, spending the week soaking up the sun and cherishing every moment together. We wish you both so much happiness as you step into this exciting new season of life!
They're Engaged!
Please join us in congratulating Megan Justice and her fiancé, Matt, on their recent engagement! The proposal took place on April 26, 2025, while vacationing on Mackinac Island. The couple took an 8-mile bike ride around the island in the morning, and when they reached the north end, he popped the question! They are excited to be able to return to the island with such a special memory. The wedding is set to take place November 14, 2025, and will be held in Grand Rapids, MI, right next to the restaurant where they shared their first date! Congratulations, Megan and Matt! Wishing you all the best as you begin this wonderful new chapter together!
Each quarter an associate from every plant and our headquarters are recognized for their exceptional performance. This award is known as Prime Performers because much like the prime steel we buy and sell, these team members shine bright for going above and beyond in their daily duties. The winners are featured in the Recoiler at the beginning of each quarter, and receive a prime parking spot and a $200 Visa gift card. If you would like to nominate a fellow co-worker, please email recoiler@millsteel.com. We are always accepting nominations.
Matt Bailey
"Matt has played a key role in several new customer start-ups over the past few months. Despite challenges such as inventory balance-outs, shifting demand, and tight timelines, his consistent and detailed mill order reports—paired with his strong sense of urgency—have been crucial in ensuring smooth onboarding. Matt’s efforts have enhanced the customer experience throughout these projects and continue to elevate our Mill Steel service. Thank you, Matt!"
- Kevon Schwaiger, Customer Integration Manager
Cameron Daidone
"Cameron has been with Mill Steel Framing for four years. He began as a stacker/ packager on third shift and eventually moved to first shift as our structural line operator. He’s been trained in nearly every role in the plant—from running the drywall line to operating the crane and loading trucks in shipping. Cam even stepped up to help lead our third shift for several months last year. He’s never late and never calls off. We’re proud to have him as part of the Mill Steel Framing family.”
- Kevin Farley, Birmingham Plant Manager
Jon Kupser
"Jon joined Mill Steel in October 2009 and has been an invaluable asset to the team. As a key member of the maintenance department and an integral part of our production operations, Jon consistently goes above and beyond to ensure everything runs smoothly. His strong work ethic, reliability, and dedication do not go unnoticed. Thank you, Jon, for your outstanding contributions and continued commitment to excellence. Keep up the great work!”
- Kevin Lambert, Melvindale Maintenance Manager
Cameron Lawhorn
"I want start by thanking Cameron for his hard work and dedication. Second shift has dealt with issues like being shorthanded, and Cameron has shown determination while still building the heads (primarily on his own) for second shift. He has come a long way from his first day, making sure we are set up for the next day on a nightly basis. Thank you, Cameron, for your hard work.”
- Oscar Moreno, Mansfield Plant Manager
Romulo Molina
“Romulo joined Mill Steel six years ago as a Slitter Operator, bringing with him over 20 years of experience in the steel industry. He has demonstrated outstanding dedication with his perfect attendance, commitment to safety, and a great attitude. Romulo is a true team player, always willing to help his team and share his knowledge to support the team’s success. Outside of work, Romulo enjoys spending time with his family and attending church. Thank you, Romulo, for your hard work and dedication.”
- Jose Neria, Houston Plant Supervisor
Luke Ockenhouse
"Luke has been with us for nearly two years and has consistently gone above and beyond. He’s always willing to step up—whether it’s training new team members, offering a helping hand when someone is struggling, or ensuring tasks are done right the first time by asking the necessary questions. He takes what he learns and applies it to help the team succeed. Having worked across multiple shifts, Luke has proven to be a valuable asset every time—and he does it all with a smile.”
- William Hodge, Jeffersonville Plant Supervisor
Dale Roberts
" Dale operates the 30” slitter and has been with Mill Steel for 13 years. When the 30” slitter schedule is caught up, he helps in shipping, pulls coils for the 54” slitter, or pitches in wherever needed around the shop. Recently, when we wanted to try running and rewinding aluminum and stainless at our location, Dale was the first to step up. This kind of can-do attitude is truly appreciated. Thank you, Dale, for always being a team player!"
- Danny Hart, Grand Rapids Plant Manager
Hello My Name Is Continued
Name: Rick Dingman
Location & Department: COMMERCIAL SALES
Rick formerly lived in Illinois and recently moved to a small town 22 miles outside of Chattanooga, Tennessee. He lives with his wife, their two daughters, and three grandchildren. In his free time, Rick enjoys training his dog, Gabi, golfing, fishing, and spending time on his boat. His favorite season is fall; thanks to the beautiful colors and the peaceful moments he enjoys on his drive home from work. Rick hopes to continue traveling across the United States with his wife and has set his sights on visiting Antarctica—having already explored the Arctic.
Name: Brett Ferguson
Location & Department: IT SUPPORT TECHNICIAN / GRAND RAPIDS
Brett grew up in Davison, Michigan, a small town just outside of Flint, and now lives in Northview, MI. In his free time, he enjoys watching football, listening to podcasts, and playing video games. He has two mini Dachshunds, Maya and Mable. His favorite season is spring because it's perfect for staying in on rainy days to catch up on shows and movies. One day, Brett hopes to take a history tour of Europe, visiting historical sites across England, France, Germany, and Italy.