Carl Gibson

Carl 'Tiny' Gibson, Production Lead, Olympic Steel, Cleveland, OH

Helpful, positive teammate. Believes a strong Company builds a strong career. Finds opportunities to learn everywhere.

Carl Gibson was given the nickname ‘Tiny’ when he was a child. Even though it’s stuck with him since childhood, Carl and his personality, ideas and helpful spirit are anything but tiny.

In 1992, Carl ‘Tiny’ Gibson began his career with Olympic Steel in the 5080 building as a Crane Operator. In 1996, the temper mill was installed and he moved to that building as a Temper Mill Operator. In 2022, he was promoted to Production Lead and remains in that role today.

George Himler, Operations Manager at Olympic Steel’s Cleveland division say, “Tiny has exceptional knowledge of our business, and he is always looking for ways to make improvements. He cares about his work and Olympic Steel, putting his heart into his job every day. He is driven to exceed expectations and is always someone you can count on to do his very best.”

His can-do, positive attitude doesn’t just help out our Cleveland division, either. Tiny’s proudest moment is when he visited the Bettendorf, IA location soon after it opened. He recalls, “The temper mill operators were having issues with the temper mill and leveler. I went to the division to understand first-hand what was going on. After I identified the problem, I showed the operators how to maintain their equipment to keep it running smoothly.”

Most of what Tiny has learned over the years has been through hands-on work and learning from his peers. “Working with my team for over 20 years has been my biggest support. We help each other out in every aspect – from work to our family life. We’re always there for each other,” says Tiny.

Knowing this, it’s no surprise that the Core Value Tiny feels he best represents is Teamwork. He says, “I jump in and help people. I’m able to do anything in this building, and I make myself available when I’m needed. If someone is out, we all pitch in where we can. When everybody makes sure we’re doing what we’re supposed to do, we’re confident we’ll be able to get done what needs to get done.”

That confidence comes with Tiny’s years of experience and his willingness to strive for continuous improvement. This belief is reinforced by the strength and stability of Olympic Steel, making him happy to come to work each day. “I know this company is going to survive for a long time. We have a broad portfolio of businesses and it reassures me that my job will always be here, as long as I continue to give my all,” Tiny explains.

When asked for his advice to others on how to be successful and build a great career, Tiny says, “Learn from those who have more experience by listening closely when they talk. There are teaching moments throughout every day, not just in training – learn from your coworkers, on-the-job and in conversations.”