ASD Announces Brian Robbins as 2017 Steel Man of the Year Award Winner

The Association of Steel Distributors (ASD) is proud to announce that Brian D. Robbins, CEO of MidWest Materials, Inc. in Perry, Ohio, has received the 2017 Steel Man of the Year Award. Since 1956, this award has recognized individuals who have made lasting contributions to the steel distribution industry over a significant period of time, and it is the most distinguished honor in the industry.

Brian Robbins served as president of ASD from March 2014 to April 2016. He led a major effort on behalf of ASD to rebuild and ensure the future of steel manufacturing by encouraging young talent to join steel’s ranks and inspiring companies and industry leaders to get involved with their greater communities.

ASD chair Andrew Gross, president at Alliance Steel, LLC., Bedford Park, Ill., says, “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. He has tirelessly served the ASD for many years and embodies the full essence of a Steel Man of the Year Award winner.”

Upon receiving the award, Robbins felt humbled to become part of this rich legacy. “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 the ASD and served as its president 50 years ago,” Robbins said. “I look forward to continue working with the FMA (Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International®) and ASD to promote another active year of growth, education, communication, and furthering friendships.”

As a third-generation, family-owned business, MidWest Materials, under Brian’s leadership since 2002, has achieved great success and been dedicated to increasing quality, achieving greater efficiencies, and improving safety. Brian is very 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.

Robbins will be honored at a special celebration during the FMA Annual Meeting on March 7 in Scottsdale, Ariz. To learn more, visit fmanet.org/asddinner.

About the Association of Steel Distributors

Founded in 1943, the Association of Steel Distributors (ASD) is a technology affiliate of the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International. ASD strives to provide high-quality information, education, and networking to steel distribution professionals, increasing their success and strategic value within their companies and in their careers. As a result, membership in the ASD is an investment that can bring valuable returns to your business.

Interested in more information? Contact ASD Program Manager Patty Elliott at  or call 815-2278217.