Service Centers

ASD to Honor Robbins as Steel Man of the Year

January 31, 2018

Brian D. Robbins, CEO of MidWest Materials, Inc. in Perry, Ohio, will be honored by the Association of Steel Distributors as its 2017 Steel Man of the Year during a special dinner celebration on Wednesday, March 7, at the ASD Spring Convention in Scottsdale, Ariz.

MidWest Materials has had a long and rich history with ASD, which similarly honored Robbins’ grandfather in 1962. “I am honored to be chosen for this prestigious award. My family has been associated with the steel industry for more than 65 years, and it is humbling to follow in the footsteps of my grandfather, Joseph Koppelman, founder of MidWest Materials, who was one of the earliest members of ASD and served as its president 50 years ago,” Robbins said.

ASD has been honoring Steel Men of the Year since 1956, recognizing individuals who have made lasting contributions to the steel distribution industry. Robbins served as president of ASD from March 2014 to April 2016 and has led the group’s efforts to attract young talent to the industry and inspire companies to get more involved in their communities.

“Brian has been and remains a tremendous leader in the steel industry and has always been at the forefront of promoting and expanding our industry in a very favorable way.” said ASD President Andrew Gross of Alliance Steel, Bedford Park, Ill. “He has tirelessly served the ASD for many years and embodies the full essence of a Steel Man of the Year award winner.”

MidWest Materials, a third-generation family owned business, has been under Robbins’ guidance since 2002. In that time, the company has made great progress in increasing quality, and improving safety and efficiency. Robbins said he is proud of the relationships built with MidWest’s vendors and customers, along with the steel community, and he recognizes that this honor could not be achieved without the support of his dedicated management team and employees.

“I look forward to continue working with the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International and ASD to promote another active year of growth, education, communication and furthering friendships,” he added. ASD is an affiliate of FMA.