Leading Business November | Page 5

LeMaster Steel delivers quality by valuing employees and the community The Great Recession impacted bottom lines everywhere, but at companies like LeMaster Steel Erectors, the economic climate could not diminish community pride. For its long-standing positive relations with the Elkhart area, LeMaster has been selected business of the month by the Greater Elkhart Chamber’s Business Recognition Council. LeMaster’s commitment to area Little Leagues, nonprofits and educational institutions like Bethel College remains strong. The company doesn’t divulge the extent of its giving, instead preferring to turn the public’s attention to its core values: * Engaging in honest and ethical treatment of customers and employees; * Providing the best service possible; and * Doing business and living by the Golden Rule. Owners Bob LeMaster and Jim Bigler guide the company that traces its roots to 1975. About 60 percent of LeMaster’s business is Elkhart-generated, with the balance happening in its Noblesville location. Recovery from the recession is nearly complete, as LeMaster indicated its 2013 sales are expected to match the 2006 numbers. LeMaster works closely with end clients and general contractors primarily in a three-state area – Michigan, Indiana and Ohio – to construct pre-engineered steel and structural steel buildings. The company’s credits, though, extend throughout the Midwest and South, as LeMaster emphasizes its quality and safety achievements. About 110 employees work at LeMaster, and the company values its experience. Nearly 40 percent of its workforce has been with the company for more than 25 years. Our Fresh Ideas will bring you BUSiNESS. 421 S. Second Street | Elkhart, IN 46516 LEADING BUSINESS 5