The Recoiler - April 2019

April I Vol 82 I 2019

INDEX

Mill Steel Knowledge Base

2 Associate Highlight: Johnny Pace

482; That’s the number of work instructions you can access with a simple click of a button on Mill Steel’s new and improved work instructions portal, Knowledge Base!

Last year, Corporate Development and Quality Systems Manager Troy Mossel recognized a need for better organization of the instructions that are essential to training new associates and set out to streamline our system. He partnered with a local web design firm to develop a user-friendly, comprehensive system that simplifies the work instructions and categorizes them for easy access. Knowledge Base makes the mundane and often despised task of updating work instructions for audits, simple and effective. The portal also houses the Mill Steel Quality Manual and Customer Specific Requirements for quick reference, and has the capability to do much more.

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Hello My Name Is

3 In Case You Didn't Know

4 Let's Celebrate

“The goal when beginning this project was to not only make the work instruction portal easier to use, but to also create something that would increase awareness and understanding of the Mill Steel Quality Management System for all team members. The knowledge base achieved that by bringing visibility to our Quality Management System, documents that were typically hard to find,” said Troy.

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Contest Corner

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Insert: Prime Performers

Knowledge Base can be found on the Work page of Millnet and is available for all associates without login credentials. However, users will need a login to view department specific and sensitive information. If you have any questions or feedback on the portal, please direct them to Troy.

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Insert: Prime Performers

Article by: Amanda Allspach

Build-A-Bear Recap On March 28th, Mill Steelers from the Grand Rapids office gathered at the local BuildA-Bear Workshop to make stuffed animals for the patients of Helen DeVos Children's Hospital (HDCH). A total of 26 stuffed animals were created with love in hopes of bringing smiles to the children of HDCH. Thank you to all that participated in our 6th annual BuildA-Bear Event!

NORMS

& VALUES

People We believe in ourselves and trust one another.

Customer Satisfaction We will do everything necessary to meet the needs of our customers.

Accountability We are accountable to our customers and to eachother.

Quality Work Environment We will provide a challenging work environment.

Community We support our community needs.

Profit We will earn a reasonable profit to assure stability and security for ourselves.

Employee Empowerment We are empowered to do our jobs.

Quality and Continuous Improvement We believe in continuous improvement through the use of corrective action process.

Facilities We will have a clean, safe place to work.

Integrity/Ethics We will be honest and fair.

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Associate Highlight Johnny Pace, Steel Structural Products Sales

Johnny and his fiancé, Kriston, at the property he grew up on, in Scottsburg, Indiana.

What is your role here at Mill Steel?

I am in Sales for Steel Structural Products. I work on the inside, with some outside travel for customer visits. My primary duties are to manage customer relationships, obtain orders, and follow them through from entry to delivery. I also quote upcoming jobs, and supplement the effort from the outside sales team.

What do you like best about your job?

What I like best about my job is also the biggest challenge.

You have to attack each day like you’re trying to accomplish more than the day before and build relationships for repeat business better than you did last week, last month, or last year. Each time you reach that bar you’ve fueled enough satisfaction to move it another notch higher.

How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?

Success is found intrinsically, achieved only when you realize you have to set a goal that is higher and further.

Who has inspired you in your life and why?

My biggest inspiration has been my parents. My mother pushed herself with only a high school diploma to become a plant manager after years of diligence. My father was everybody’s superman, and a jack of all trades. He had more wisdom than you could quantify, and taught me how effort, perseverance, and making the best decision within each moment will set you up for a life of happiness. I wake up every day to make him proud.

What is one of your favorite quotes and why?

“The key is not the will to win.

Everybody has that. It is the will to prepare to win that is important.” – Bobby Knight What job would you be terrible at?

If I were hired to be an artist of

Johnny loves spending time outdoors, especially hunting.

any kind, I would be accused of submitting daycare projects from local toddlers. I can manage to make stick figures look like a low-level cave painting.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?

I would love to succeed the great Don Fischer as the play by play voice of Indiana Hoosier basketball.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be in sports journalism. I was lucky enough to major in that in college, and with some TV and radio experience, had job offers upon graduation.

A major illness with my father led me to come home and subsequently step away from that profession. I’m still able to do Play by Play on the radio for my high school basketball team, as well as a podcast/web video series that I have started. Scratching the itch still!

Article by: Amanda Massar

Johnny bass fishing from last summer in Marysville, IN - one of his favorite activities.

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our Mill Steel These individuals are recent additions to to the team! family. Please join us in welcoming them Articles by: Tina Mattias

Name: Christopher Diel Location & Department: Grand Rapids / Credit Chris is originally from the metro Detroit area, but has lived in Holland for the past 20 years. He has been married for 19 years to Jennifer and they have three kids, Meaghan (17), James (12), and Grace (7). They also have a two-year-old dog named Gordo. Chris’ family is very busy between piano, ballet, wrestling, football and whatever else may come up. Chris loves to coach youth sports so he helps out when he can with football, baseball and wrestling. He used to have other hobbies, but now he has kids! His favorite place is anywhere along the coast of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan because of the scenery, especially in the fall with the changing colors.

Tom Nagelkerk's Retirement With mixed emotions, we say farewell to Tom Nagelkerk as he begins his retirement journey. For those of us that work with Tom regularly, he will be sorely missed. Tom has positively impacted the lives of every Mill Steel employee over his nearly 12-year career as our Corporate Controller. His dedication to the protection of Mill Steel’s assets, deep concern for our associates and everyday demeanor made him a very special leader.

In my first week with Mill Steel in 2016, Tom explained the importance of visiting every location, every shift, every year, to meet with as many of our associates as possible. He did this to educate our associates on the retirement and benefit programs offered. This is no small effort, and not one that would normally be associated with a company’s chief accountant. As I attended these meetings with Tom, it was humbling to see how much he cared about our people and his duties. Tom is truly special, and we’ve been blessed to have him for these last 12 years.

Tom has been contemplating retirement for more than a year and decided a few months ago that he would begin his retirement journey this month. I say journey, because Tom will stay onboard in a consulting role through most of 2019 to assist us in the transition of his duties.

Thank you for your dedication and hard work over the years, we wish you all the best!

Article by: Marc Rabitoy

In Ca se You Didn' t Kn ow

Here's the scoop on recent role changes within our company.

Tim VanWingerden Along with Tom’s “soft retirement”, as of April 1st, Tim VanWingerden will take over as Mill Steel’s Corporate Controller. Tim will take full responsibility of the all accounting, finance, forecasting, planning and analysis functions for Mill Steel. Tom will remain onboard for the next six months to assist in the transition, but all finance inquiries should be directed to Tim. Congratulations on the next step in your career, Tim!

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

They're Engaged!

Congratulations to Ben Fales and his fiancé Lydia on their recent engagement! Ben and Lydia have been together for just over four years. They knew each other in elementary school, but started dating in high school.

Ben popped the question while taking her dog for a walk at Lake Michigan. When they were at one of the lookout points on the dunes when he got down on one knee, and she said YES! They enjoy walking and running their dogs, playing tennis, and pretty much anything active. They are planning to get married in January of 2020. Best of luck with the wedding planning!

Article by: Tammy Root

It's A Girl!

Congratulations to Casey and Cheryl VerStrate on the birth of their beautiful baby girl, Irene Madeleine. She was born on March 11, 2019 and weighed in at 7 lb. 2 oz. and 20.5” long. Everyone is doing well and Henry is loving his new sister. Casey says, “Being a new Dad is pretty great!” Congrats to you all and welcome to the Mill Steel team, Irene!

Article by: Tammy Root

Let’s Celebrate A pr i l

Anniversaries Miles Gonzalez Kenneth Sawyer Jacob Hurrell William Robbins Clifton Adamson Kevin Kaysserian Khan Tran Brian Holzgen John Kinley Sharon Warner Russell Werra Tyler Uhazie Tavarus Robinson Kristy Thrasher Mike Easlick Chelsea Workman Craig Dunn Jennifer Gillard Mark Lyke Kevon Schwaiger Ishmael Graham

10 Or More!

Jim Murray Kelly Steele Shannon Monday David Bement Mike Martin

We’re hiring Equipment Operators!

Mill Steel is looking for dedicated individuals with a strong work ethic and proven track record to join our plant operations teams in Melvindale, Jeffersonville, and Houston.

These positions may require some overtime and weekend shifts to keep pace with customer demands. Along with industry leading benefits, the position offers opportunities for additional income through attendance and performance bonuses. If you know of anyone that would be a good fit, please let your manager know and have the candidate apply at www.millsteelcareers.com!

Contest Corner

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SWISH! This month’s contest corner featured bank shots, airballs, and alley-oops! An accurate shot, and 15-feet separated the Mill Steelers from free throw contest glory! After an impressive showing by all, the field narrowed down to a final featuring Megan Donavan and Ben Fales.

Ben stepped to the line and calmly buried the deciding shot. A raucous celebration broke out and Ben was carried back to his desk on the shoulders of his competitors. All proceeds were donated to Helen DeVos Children's Hospital (HDCH), wrapping up our Q1 fundraising. The grand total donated to HDCH was $.

Article by: Zach Lee

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Birthdays Steve Groeger Jacob Hurrell Richard Giddens Tyler Uhazie Paul Dooge Scott King Jose Neria Brennan Watson Jason Gladney Craig Dunn Keith Sikkema Jacob Senters La Von Cooper Dana Price Miles Vedder Marie Cole Larry Tiffany Chase Canning Kevon Schwaiger Jeremy Zenow Kimberly Creek Gabriel Schwab Wesley Alexander Troy Mossel Sheryl King Sara Zimmer Tom Gless Floyd Rhodes Jason Gibson Larry Czajkowski Shannon Monday Keshawn Connor James Jose Bradley Damman Mark Vandekieft Alexandra Humitz Walter Kalisz Jeffrey Frost David Bement Andrew Sammut Kevin Farley Brandon Steward Jonathan Odell

4/1 4/2 4/2 4/4 4/4 4/4 4/5 4/5 4/6 4/7 4/9 4/11 4/11 4/11 4/13 4/14 4/14 4/15 4/17 4/17 4/17 4/18 4/19 4/19 4/21 4/22 4/22 4/24 4/24 4/25 4/25 4/26 4/26 4/26 4/26 4/27 4/27 4/29 4/29 4/29 4/30 4/30 4/30

Each quarter an associate from every plant and the corporate office 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 Amanda Allspach. We are always accepting nominations. Winners are selected by the management team.

Ishmael Graham "During the past quarter, and for almost 8 years, Ishmael Graham has been a key contributor to the success of SSP. As our first shift structural line operator, he is directly responsible for productivity and the quality of structural orders coming off the line. Ishmael has demonstrated a desire to help in whatever way needed. He is always helping new associates get acclimated and leading a great example for the team. Thank you for all your hard work and congratulations, Ish!" - Dave Dziuban, Jeffersonville Plant Manager

John Griffiths "John Griffiths has been with Mill Steel for 11 years this coming May. Over the years, John has excelled in many roles in Melvindale, working across all departments. In his current position as Team Lead-Slitter Operator, John runs all of our slitters with his primary focus being the operation of the 38 on first shift. John is extremely talented, hardworking, and always willing to do whatever it takes to ensure the success of the team! Thank you for all your effort and dedication to Mill Steel, John! For the record, John wanted to wait another day to be photographed since he hadn’t had a chance to shave!!"

- Kevin Bodner, Melvindale Plant Manager

William Hodge "In almost two years with Mill Steel, William “Hodgie” Hodge has worked his way to being Operator on the 78 for 2nd shift. He has taken this opportunity to develop his knowledge and skills to be a positive, dedicated contributor to our team. He helps lead his teammates to success by assisting wherever he can. We look forward to your continued growth and success, Hodgie! Congratulations and thank you!"

- Dave Dziuban, Jeffersonville Plant Manager

Jessie McCrary

"Jessie McCrary has spent most of his time on the 64 packline. During the past quarter, Jessie has been training to become an operator on the 77. He has shown leadership and dedication to the success of Mill Steel. With Jessie's positive attitude and hard work ethic, he will become a fantastic slitter operator. Thank you for all you do for Mill Steel, Jessie!"

- Kevin Farley, Birmingham Plant Manager

C l ay t o n M o r r i s o n "Clayton Morrison started with Mill Steel in February of 2018, where he worked on setup of the 72” for 2nd shift. He excelled at that position and was offered a setup position for the 54” on first shift. When a job opened up in shipping, he again volunteered to try another position. He always strives to be the best at any given opportunity. Clayton always has a smile on his face and is a pleasure to work with. We congratulate him on his continued success!"

- George Knarr, Grand Rapids Supervisor

Jose Niera "Jose Niera works on the CTL, pack line, 60” slitter and anywhere else he is needed. Jose is the epitome of a “Mill Steeler.” He has an amazing work ethic, but more importantly, an amazing attitude. I have never seen Jose in a bad mood. He will complete any task he is given, and he will complete it the right way. I cannot say enough good things about Jose! Congratulations and this recognition is much deserved!"

- Mike Tomasaitis, Houston Plant Manager

Jim Spurlock "Jim Spurlock is the type of operator you just let do his thing. He is a second time winner of this award. He checks himself every day on his coil production, always pushing to be as efficient as possible, averaging 18 charts per day. Jim takes safety and quality very seriously and is one of the best at training associates. I have worked with Jim for a long time and I know he gives everything he has to his work. Great job Jim and thank you for all that you do!"

- Martin Tobey, Anderson Plant Manager

S h e r r y Va n D e n A k k e r “Sherry VanDenAkker gives 110% on everything she does. She works long hours daily, as well as weekends. No matter what task is given to her, she works hard to get it done in a very timely matter. Thank you for your dedication and hard work, Sherry!”

- Sheryl King, IT Manager/Senior Systems Developer

Courtney Williams “Courtney Williams is a great team player. He is always staying busy and continuously lending a helping hand. With Courtney, you know any task you give him will be done correctly and in a timely matter. We are proud to have Courtney as part of our SSP team! Thank you for all that you do!”

- Jason Meads, Steel Structural Products Birmingham Plant Manager