30 Years of Steel, Grit, and Growth: The Grand Steel Story
In 1995, Jim Barnett single-handedly founded Grand Steel and opened its doors with a small team, a lot of ambition, and an unwavering belief in doing right by its customers. Thirty years later, we’re proud to celebrate not just how far we’ve come—but what’s ahead.
Today, Grand Steel is home to over 120 team members across multiple locations, serving customers nationwide with precision steel processing, testing, and logistics. And while the numbers speak to our growth, it’s the relationships, resilience, and shared vision that define our journey.
“This industry keeps us on our toes,” says President and CEO, Mike Barnett, who joined as employee number three. “While it’s important to step back and see how far we’ve come, we’re more motivated than ever to keep developing and evolving.”
Humble Beginnings, Big Vision
Founded by Jim Barnett, Mike’s father, Grand Steel started as a steel brokerage focused on personal service and strong relationships. That customer-first mentality remains at the heart of everything we do.
In 2008, the company made its biggest move yet, purchasing its first facility in Wixom, MI to accommodate steel storage and expand beyond brokerage services. In 2011, Grand Steel added its first slitter and launched a small fleet of three trucks to build logistics capabilities.
“That was the turning point,” Mike recalls. “We knew if we could control more of the process, we could better serve our customers.”
Expanding Capabilities, Strengthening Trust
As demand grew, so did our facilities. We expanded our Wixom, Michigan headquarters and acquired additional sites in Tennessee, adding rail and barge logistics to our capabilities. We also invested in packaging equipment and opened an in-house steel testing lab in 2017.
“The lab added another layer of value for our customers,” Mike says. “They know they’re getting reliable, tested materials, handled by a team that cares.”
From one slitter to full-service processing. From three trucks to multi-state shipping networks. From startups to industry partners. Every move has been intentional—and always made with our customers in mind.
“We’ve maintained a good reputation by doing what we say we’re going to do,” Mike adds. “And trying not to say no when someone needs us.”
The People Behind the Progress
None of this would have happened without the incredible people who make up the Grand Steel team. Leaders like VP of Operations, Chuck Garavaglia—who has played a key role in operational growth—and countless team members who bring their expertise and dedication to work every day.
“It’s been quite a ride,” Mike says. “There are so many people here who have contributed so much. We wouldn’t be here without them.”
Grand Steel has grown not just in size, but in depth. Many of our team members have been with us since the early days and have grown into leadership roles over time. That kind of long-term dedication speaks to a culture built on grit, trust, and opportunity—where people are empowered to take ownership and grow alongside the company.
“If you don’t have grit, you’re not going to be successful in this industry. I’ve been lucky to go through this journey alongside my dad, and we’ve learned a lot together.”
Embracing Technology and Change
Thirty years ago, orders came in by fax. Today, text messages and digital platforms keep things moving. Technology has changed how we work—from upgraded processing equipment to better communication—but the need to adapt remains the same.
“We’re progressive,” Mike says. “We embrace technology to enhance what we do, not replace who we are.”
That evolution also includes people. Mike notes a positive shift in how careers in manufacturing are perceived—and a growing diversification of the workforce.
Grand Steel has long supported the development of women in the steel industry—and today, women hold key roles across departments, from operations and logistics to leadership. We don’t just welcome diversity; we depend on it. A more inclusive workforce brings new ideas, perspectives, and strengths that help us grow as a company and better serve our customers.
Our supply base has changed too, shaped by industry consolidations and shifting global dynamics. But through it all, Grand Steel has remained committed to strong, dependable partnerships.
“The partners we work with are the best,” Mike says. “We don’t take those relationships for granted.”
Looking Ahead: Still Grand, Still Growing
As we celebrate our 30 years, we’re proud of our past—but focused on the future. We’re growing with intention, investing in our people, and building a stronger, more sustainable domestic steel industry.
“We’re not taking our foot off the gas,” Mike says. “We’re more determined than ever to be a better place to work for and to work with. We’ve built great partnerships, and we’re committed to growing with them—and with our customers—for years to come.”
To everyone who has been a part of this journey, thank you. To those just joining us—welcome. The future is steel-strong, and we’re just getting started.
