Quarterly Snapshot Issue 12

 

INSIDE AGRISTEEL

EXCITING CHANGES

In advance of major expansions and new market opportunities, we are excited to announce a new dual-branded company identity. Alongside AgriSteel, AGS Fabrication will now share the namesake with our Oshkosh-based fabrication efforts. While AgriSteel will continue to be the face of our pre-engineered conventional steel building packages geared towards Agricultural markets through its distributor network covering North America, expansion plans at our Oshkosh location will soon bring the ability to add our custom rolled panels and secondary framing members in 2025, making the AgriSteel product a single-source fully in-house product in the very near future. AGS Fabrication will be the new face of fabricated products such as stairs, conventional steel structures, and specialty structural items for commercial and industrial construction projects.

This strategic move allows us to distinguish our brands and better focus on the markets they serve. We expect that in the future, this change will enable us better to market our products in support of our expansion efforts and enhance the overall customer experience. 

We are excited about the potential this brings for our company’s continued growth and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our operations. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to evolve.

DISTRIBUTOR COLLABORATIONS

In July, Mark Hultman had the pleasure of visiting Columbus, Nebraska, where he spent valuable time collaborating with our esteemed Distributor, Heartland Buildings, at their office. The meeting proved to be both productive and inspiring, reinforcing our commitment to working closely with our partners. We believe that strong relationships are the cornerstone of our success, and we’re excited to extend this opportunity to all of our Distributors. If you're interested in setting up a collaborative meeting similar to this one, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can achieve greater heights!

10 Years together

With a profound sense of appreciation, Dairy Lane Systems and Ruchty Builders both celebrate 10 years with us as AgriSteel Distributors. Both companies partnerships and contributions since the inception of AgriSteel is invaluable as they have consistently gone above and beyond, showcasing unwavering dedication to excellence and a shared commitment to providing superior agricultural building solutions. Through the years, we have forged enduring friendships that transcend the business realm, making these collaborations all the more meaningful. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dairy Lane Systems and Ruchty Builders for their unwavering support and look forward to continuing this mutually beneficial partnership for many years to come.

Looking AHEAD

JOIN US AT WORLD DAIRY EXPO 2024

AgriSteel is excited to announce our participation in the upcoming World Dairy Expo, taking place at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, WI from October 1-4, 2024. We invite you to visit us in the Exhibition Hall at booth #EH 1601-1702, where our team will be on hand to showcase our innovative solutions for the dairy industry. This year, we're thrilled to collaborate again with our affiliate company, Bayland Buildings Inc., to bring you even more insights and offerings. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry experts, learn about the latest advancements, and explore how we can help elevate your business and your customers dairy operations. We look forward to seeing you there—make sure to stop by and say hi!

 

fEATURED PRODUCT

CUSTOM FABRICATED STAIRS

At AgriSteel, we take pride in offering tailored solutions that elevate your projects to new heights! Our in-house custom stairs fabrication service is designed to meet your specific needs, whether you're looking for a unique design to enhance your commercial space or a sturdy, safe solution for industrial applications. From initial design and engineering to final fabrication, our dedicated team works closely with you every step of the way to ensure your vision comes to life with precision and quality. Discover how our expertise in custom stair solutions can transform your spaces and meet your exact specifications. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements.

fEATURED PROJECT

AGRISTEEL CUSTOMER - WESTMORELAND FARMS

PROJECT LOCATION - EGAN, SD

This summer the Jopson's at Westmoreland Farms in Egan, SD completed their new 200' x 60' calf barn. The new barn is designed specifically for their calf hutches, ensuring the young livestock receive the best care possible. The barn features sidewalls made of curtains and translucent paneling, which work together to provide optimal airflow and ventilation while maximizing natural light. This careful consideration for the calves' environment will promote healthy growth and development, reflecting the Jopson's commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Quarterly Snapshot Issue 11

 

INSIDE AGRISTEEL

AGRISTEEL'S FABRICATION FACILITY TOUR

Embark on a journey through AgriSteel's fabrication facility in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Witness firsthand the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication of our employee-owners as they transform raw steel into the building blocks of your structures. From welding beams to the intricate precision of punching connection holes, every set of the fabrication process is carried out with unmatched skill and attention to detail. Each steel beam is carefully measured, cut, and welded to meet the exact specifications of your building design. As the beams and columns take form, they undergo a rigorous power washing and priming process to ensure longevity and resistance to the elements. The results culminate in custom-made steel beams and columns that will form the backbone of your buildings.

2024 DISTRIBUTOR CONFERENCE

The 2024 AgriSteel Distributor Conference was held on April 18, 2024, in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin and was an undeniable success. Attendees were privileged to engage with esteemed presenters, including Courtney Halbach from the Dairyland Initiative. The conference fostered a dynamic environment for knowledge exchange and professional growth. Through insightful presentations, attendees gained valuable insights into the latest industry trends and best practices. Attendees were able to connect with other professionals in the field, fostering meaningful conversations and networking opportunities. The conference provided a platform for attendees to learn from industry experts, share their experiences, and explore innovative solutions. The knowledge and connections gained at the conference will undoubtedly be instrumental in the attendees' professional endeavors, enabling them to enhance their businesses and contribute to the advancement of the agricultural industry.

 

Looking AHEAD

WE ARE EXPANDING OUR LINE

Exciting news is on the horizon for AgriSteel. In 2025, we will be expanding our capabilities to include custom rolled panels and secondary framing members, making AgriSteel a single-source solution. This transformative expansion will bring all aspects of our production in-house, allowing us to streamline our processes and ensure the highest quality standards for our customers. By producing custom rolled panels and secondary framing members, we will have greater control over every step of the manufacturing process, from raw materials to finished products. This will not only enhance our efficiency but also enable us to offer even more customized solutions to meet the unique needs of our clients. The integration of these new capabilities into our Oshkosh location will further solidify our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. We are thrilled to embark on this exciting journey and look forward to unveiling the exceptional products and services that this expansion will bring. Stay tuned for more updates as we progress towards this significant milestone in 2025.

 

fEATURED PRODUCT

LMP 4-48

The LMP is a versatile and essential addition to any building package. LMPs are placed into the wall before the concrete is poured, allowing for a solid anchoring to the concrete wall. The LMP provides an effective barrier between the concrete and any heavy machinery that may come into contact with it.

One of the key benefits of the LMP is its ability to prevent structural damage to concrete walls. Without the LMPs, heavy equipment can easily cause dents, scratches, and other forms of harm or impairment to concrete walls. Over time, this damage can weaken the structural integrity of the walls, leading to costly repairs and potentially compromising the safety of the building. By using the LMPs, you can ensure that your concrete walls will remain in pristine condition, even in the face of heavy equipment and machinery.

Adding LMPs to your project is a cost-effective solution for preventing equipment damage upfront.

 

fEATURED PROJECT

AGRISTEEL DISTRIBUTOR - CUSTOM BUILDERS OF TIPTON, INC.

PROJECT LOCATION - ATALISSA, IA

Custom Builders of Tipton, Inc. constructed this 50' x 375' monoslope cattle barn in Atalissa, IA.

Quarterly Snapshot Issue 10

 

INSIDE AGRISTEEL

MEET AUSTIN RYCZEK

Austin has been a member of the AgriSteel team for 9 years. He graduated from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College with a 2-year associate degree in the Architectural Technology Program.

At AgriSteel, Austin is one of several Drafters on our team. His role involves transforming the estimate drawings he receives from the sales representative, into 2 different, new sets of drawings. One set is transformed into erection drawings which go to the builder, and the other set is created into fabrication drawings which go to our fabricators in our manufacturing facility. Austin works closely with our sales representatives to ensure the project adheres to the initial design. He follows each of his assigned projects throughout the fabrication process, and fields any questions, concerns, or changes along the way. Austin works closely with Roger, our in-house engineer to incorporate engineered sizes for all the structural members. Austin is very thorough and has a strong focus to detail which allows him to stay on top of the most intricate projects.

CHRISTMAS PARTY - JOKE'S ON THEM

At our Christmas party, some of the wives played a prank that will be hard to beat! As each of the guys walked into the party, they kept noticing that several other husbands were dressed in the same attire. It was a funny sight, but not everyone found it as amusing as the wives did!

 

Looking AHEAD

CENTRAL PLAINS DAIRY EXPO

Where dairy decision makers meet

The dairy-focused show features technology-sharing and networking opportunities, and outstanding educational programming.

Sioux Falls, SD - This year's Central Plains Dairy Expo (CPDE), set for March 19-21, at the Denny Sanford Center, in Sioux Falls, SD, features "everything dairy" through nearly 300 exhibitors and their innovative products, services and technologies. Plus, visitors may choose from 69 informative breakout sessions, including 12 presented in Spanish, and free entertainment.

CPDE kicks off at 5:30pm on March 19th, with the Welcome Reception - featuring Rodney Atkins, one of country music's biggest stars. Atkins will hit the stage at approximately 7:00pm. You won't want to miss the heralded event! The free and entertaining kick-off reception runs until 9:00pm

"We encourage dairy producers, calf and heifer growers, and beef feedlot, farm and ranch employees and managers to attend the 2024 Central Plains Dairy Expo," said Kristopher Bousquet, Central Plains Dairy Association president. "CPDE plays a key role in facilitating and supporting the future growth, relevancy and vitality of the Central Plains dairy industry."

Once again, this year's Expo offers the "Ed (Education) Shed", found in the Arena. Select exhibitors will introduce new products, share new service and product features, and demonstrate product benefits and ease of use.

Starting at 7:00 am on March 20th, attend the inspiring Prayer Breakfast - featuring Merrill Nettinga, who owns M&M Dairy with his wife, Marlys. This dairy farm's roots trace back to the 1940s and today includes two robotic milkers, for its 100 cows, and 1,000 acres of corn and soybeans. He will share his faith-based journey and describe how the grace of God has helped his family build a sustainable farm business.

CPDE also offers several complimentary items and events, including educational breakout sessions, which cover topics ranging from biofilms to revenue-generating opportunities to mastitis prevention to calf vaccination to 3D camera technology. Visitors may also enjoy free doughnuts, grilled cheese sandwiches, ice cream novelties, cheese, and wine. And, you won't want to miss the free Pancake Breakfast on March 21st, from, 8-10:00am.

To ensure a seamless experience, register for CPDE before heading to Sioux Falls. Register online at: http://www.centralplainsdairy.com/registration. Plus download the CPDE app so you don't miss events and exciting offers available at CPDE. This event remains a free trade show for producers, but registration is required.

For more information about CPDE, visit www.centralplains.com.

Be sure to stop by and visit while attending CPDE! AgriSteel's booth is C301.

2024 AGRISTEEL'S DISTRIBUTOR TRAINING

fEATURED PROJECT

AGRISTEEL DISTRIBUTOR - HIXWOOD

PROJECT LOCATION - CURTISS, WI

Hixwood supplied this 46,875 sq ft AgriSteel manufacturing building for Hoover Metals in Curtiss, Wisconsin. The new facility will house (4) 65-foot, 7.5-ton overhead cranes.

Hixwood Metals is located in Stanley, WI and has been an AgriSteel distributor since 2020.

 

fEATURED DISTRIBUTOR

UNITED DEVELOPMENT

BROOKINGS, SD

Arjan Blok; owner of United Development, began his career in Dairy Development in the United States in 2002. Together with a partner he built many of the dairies along the I29 corridor, including his own, Global Dairy, which is in Estelline South Dakota. In 2009 he developed his own company, United Development, LLC and has continued to build new dairies as well as feedlots, heifer and calf facilities, feed storage centers, shop building/equipment storage buildings, and other agricultural facilities. United Development also provides consulting expertise on dairy projects throughout the United States and other countries. Because he has the advantage of owning his own dairy which continues to expand, he can test new products and systems on the market including building materials, ventilation and waste management products and systems, designs, etc. which allows him to provide customers with personal knowledge and experience in various aspects of building and design.

Quarterly Snapshot Issue 9

 

Inside Agristeel

QUALITY CONTROL PROCEDURES

AgriSteel has worked diligently over the years to give our customers the best product possible. Quality control will always remain our top priority.

To ensure we meet our high standards of quality, we have set procedures throughout the entirety of each project's completion.

  1. Each set of fabrication (shop) drawings goes through a "Check Set" meeting for accuracy.

  2. Every secondary piece is checked for punch accuracy before ordering.

  3. As steel is fabricated, each piece is double checked by the next process in line.

  4. Once every member is fabricated and complete, it goes through one last inspection which includes double checking the overall length, hole punches, clips/plate placements, etc. before a final sign off on the project.

We have made significant strides over the years on our quality and will always place it at the top of our priority list.

WORLD DAIRY EXPO

It was another successful year at WDE2023! We were able to catch up with past customers and discuss future opportunities with new interested customers. And of course, we gave away more yellow hard hats than we could count to people of all ages!


EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP MONTH

AgriSteel is 100% employee-owned! To celebrate, we had a month end company party. Our team members have a personal stake in the success of AgriSteel, strengthening our commitment to the overall quality to our customers.



 

FEATURED PRODUCT

Stall & Headlock Intermediates

The stall and headlock intermediate posts are welded to weld plates that are cast into the concrete for mid span support of either headlocks or freestalls.

  • Made with HSS 4" x 4" x 3/16" tube steel with cap (no base plate)

  • Stock lengths are 12", 24", 36", 48", 60", and 72"

  • Standard finish is bronze primer

  • Other color options are gray primer, red primer, or galvanized

Featured PROJECTS

AGRISTEEL DISTRIBUTOR - RYAN SERVICES, INC.

PROJECT LOCATION - BLAIRSVILLE, PA

Ryan Services, an AgriSteel distributor since 2015, is currently expanding a building for a concrete precast manufacturing firm. They are adding an impressive 13,395 sq ft with a 50' eave height to the expansion.

We take great pride in the strong partnership between the two companies and the exceptional work that Ryan Services is doing.

 

Featured Distributor

HEDGEWOOD EQUIPMENT

OSCEOLA, IA

Headquartered in Osceola, Iowa, Hedgewood Equipment has worked with cattle producers to build long-lasting, high-performance facilities for more than 12 years. With projects spanning the upper Midwest, Hedgewood works one-on-one with farmers to design and construct cattle barns with the improvement of their operations in mind. Bringing cattle under roof can have many benefits to both the livestock and the farmer, including improved feed efficiency, reduced labor expenses, and enhanced animal health and well-being. Hedgewood has a long history of successfully assisting farmers in leveraging programs such as the USDA’s Environmental Quality Improvement Program (EQIP) and others. As a newcomer to the AgriSteel family, Hedgewood is excited to be able to offer customers the option of high-quality steel building construction as they work to modernize their cattle operations, improving their ability to profitably – and safely – manage beef and dairy herds.

Quarterly Snapshot Issue 8

 

inside agristeel

CHRIS MENTING
OUTSIDE SALES
AgriSteel is thrilled to announce the addition of Chris Menting to our Outside Sales team. Chris is a driven individual with a strong desire to succeed. He has been a part of the AgriSteel team for eight years and has worked his way up from power washing to painting and shipping, parts department, and welding. His experience has given him a deep understanding of the level of detail required for every AgriSteel project. 

Chris currently resides in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, with his wife and three daughters aged 1, 4, and 7. He is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and knows the importance of hard work and commitment in achieving his goals. In his free time, Chris enjoys camping and spending quality time with his family outdoors. 

We are confident that Chris’s experience and dedication will make a tremendous impact and valuable contribution to the AgriSteel team.

AGRISTEEL RECEIVES ACHIEVEMENT PLAQUE

Shane with Central States Manufacturing presented Mark from AgriSteel with an achievement plaque for over $2 million sales in 2022 for sheeting, trims, and secondary steel.

SUMMER COOKOUT FUN

Throughout summer, our team takes a break from the grind for a Friday cookout. There is nothing more fitting than to celebrate a successful week by enjoying a perfectly grilled brat! (Such a Wisconsin thing to do)

Mark your calendars because AgriSteel's Distributor Conference is back! We can't wait to share more about this exciting event in the coming months!

 

FEATURED PRODUCT

Pro 12

The Pro 12 is a corner guard embedment. The standard size is 6.25" x 6.25" x adjustable heights.

The Pro 12 corner guard embedment adds protection to the corners of concrete pads in the barn and helps to eliminate damages caused by knocking the corners with heavy equipment during the feeding and cleaning process. The embedment's smooth surface and rounded corners prevents injury to the animal if rubbed against.

The Pro 12 corner guard embedment is set into the concrete during the pouring of the concrete and adds a nice touch to the barn.

Featured Distributor

MILLER CONSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT, INC.

WEST BRANCH, MI


Family owned since 1973, Miller Construction & Equipment has built a reputation as northern Michigan's leader in general contracting and building design by providing personal service and delivering quality construction in a wide range of wood frame and steel frame projects, including municipal facilities, commercial and industrial buildings of all sizes, and complete dairy facilities.


The team at Miller Construction & Equipment works directly with each customer from initial consultation through the project's completion, striving for total customer satisfaction every time.