Michael Heenan

 Regional Sales Manager, Gary, IN

Inherited strong values from his parents. Recognized Olympic Steel’s Core Values in his own. Uses those standards to build relationships and develop his team.

From the start, Michael Heenan learned the value of balancing work and life. His parents, and the other families living in the Beverly area on the south side of Chicago, worked hard while also making time for family, education and giving back to the community.

Michael followed his parent’s example, working through high school and college. After he graduated from Eastern Illinois University, in 2010, he was excited to jump into a full-time career, but jobs were scarce. His cousin, then working for Olympic Steel, referred him for an open position at the Bettendorf, IA division. Michael worked there for a year as an Inside Sales Representative, then moved to Gary, IN after accepting the first Inside Sales Representative position at the division. He was promoted to Outside Sales for the Indiana territory and, four years later, promoted again to Regional Sales Manager for the Gary, IN and Schaumburg, IL divisions.

The values Michael developed from his parents’ own work ethic were a good match for the values he found at Olympic Steel. This made for a great fit, and Michael cites securing that first position and being given the opportunity to work for Olympic Steel as one of his proudest moments. “I knew there would be opportunities to move up and learn new things,” says Michael. “I’ve accepted more responsibility over the years, and that has allowed me to grow as an employee and an individual – from entry-level sales to Regional Sales Manager. I’ve been able to work with leadership and learn from them about how the business runs.”

When asked who or what has helped him most throughout his career, Michael recalls Andrew Wolfort, Terry Rohde and Scott Besunder. These mentors were supportive of his career development and are great examples of how to succeed at Olympic Steel. Classes through the Metals Service Center Institute (MSCI) and other professional organizations also provided valuable industry education and networking opportunities.

Michael continues to build on the values instilled in him by his family and uses Olympic Steel’s Core Values to guide him as a Leader, member of the team and in his working with customers. In fact, it’s these interactions that make him happy to come to work each day. Michael explains, “Every day brings a new challenge, but when we understand each other and work together, we’re able to solve problems and achieve success.”

Michael looks forward to continuing to develop his knowledge of the business and being a mentor to others who want to grow their career at Olympic Steel. Sharing the lessons his parents taught him, he recalls some additional words of wisdom: “Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. It’ll help you grow. And, always raise your standards and give 110% effort – at work and in life.”