Why NCW is Kloeckner’s Trusted Staffing Partner for Specialized Roles
A Client Testimonial from Stephanie Phillips
In today’s competitive industrial landscape, finding the right talent for specialized roles can make or break a company’s operations. Kloeckner Metals, a leader in the steel industry, knows this well. Their Indianapolis facility relies on skilled workers, like overhead crane material handlers and OEM welders, to keep the wheels turning. When it comes to sourcing and retaining this critical workforce, Kloeckner turns to NCW, their trusted staffing partner. We had the pleasure of speaking with Stephanie Phillips, the Office Manager at Kloeckner Metals, to learn more about this unique partnership.
The Role of NCW in Kloeckner’s Growth
Stephanie has been with Kloeckner for almost five years, during which time she’s worn many hats. From handling HR functions to overseeing accounts payable, her role is varied and demanding. One aspect that she especially appreciates is how NCW has made her job a bit easier. “Drew [from NCW] was very hands-on from the beginning,” Stephanie explains. “He was one of the first services I worked with, and he made everything seamless.”
That seamless service includes handling tough situations, like when employees don’t work out. “You guys even came onsite to let someone go who didn’t end up working out,” she recalls. “It takes a big weight off my shoulders knowing you’re doing your due diligence.” This level of involvement has made the partnership between NCW and Kloeckner a standout, and it’s clear that Stephanie values the hands-on support.
A Trusted Relationship
Kloeckner Metals has worked with multiple staffing vendors over the years, but according to Stephanie, NCW stands out. “I still work with a couple of other services, but I 100% prefer NCW because you guys do your due diligence,” she says. One reason for this preference is NCW’s ability to tailor its services to Kloeckner’s specific needs. “When I get a candidate from you, I know you’ve already done everything to make sure they’re right for us,” Stephanie explains. The relationship is not just about filling positions—it’s about understanding the nuances of Kloeckner’s operations. “With other vendors, I have to hand-hold and remind them ‘Hey, this is what Kloeckner requires,’ but you guys have read the contract and understand what we need.” That understanding even extends to the billing process, where NCW has been flexible and accommodating as Kloeckner has made changes.
How Kloeckner Faces Industry Challenges
The steel industry is not without its challenges, particularly when it comes to safety and finding skilled workers. “Our biggest initiative is safety,” Stephanie emphasizes. “We want everyone to go home in the exact same position as they came into work.” This focus on safety is crucial in an environment where materials can weigh anywhere from 100 to 10,000 pounds and are moved using overhead cranes.
NCW plays a vital role in ensuring Kloeckner hires workers who understand these demands. “People think of material handling and they think boxes, but we’re moving steel,” Stephanie points out. “NCW does a great job explaining that we are not your typical warehouse—it’s steel.” This distinction is essential when screening candidates for both material handlers and OEM welders, whose work requires a higher level of skill than many realize. “You do a good job of screening those out and making sure someone’s got good blueprint reading experience, for example,” she adds.
Weathering Workforce Challenges Together
Like many companies, Kloeckner faced workforce shortages in the wake of COVID-19. “We didn’t have to lay people off, but we weren’t replacing them as they quit voluntarily,” Stephanie explains. This left the company with significant staffing gaps. “We were down to 53 employees, and now we’re at 87,” she notes. The partnership with NCW played a crucial role in helping Kloeckner recover its workforce and even expand it. “Drew has been helping us create a second shift for welders and machine operators, something we didn’t previously have.”
The relationship has been one of steady growth and mutual benefit. “It’s been a steady growth since 2022,” Stephanie says. She credits NCW not just with helping them recover, but also with positioning Kloeckner for future success by consistently providing reliable, skilled workers.
A Partnership Built to Last
For Kloeckner Metals, working with NCW isn’t just about staffing—it’s about having a partner who truly understands their needs and is willing to go the extra mile. Whether it’s making sure that safety is prioritized, handling the challenges of hiring in a post-pandemic world, or simply being there to make the process smoother, NCW has been an invaluable part of Kloeckner’s success.
As Stephanie sums it up: “Every aspect of our relationship with you guys has worked seamlessly over the years. I know I can come to you and you’ll give me a good employee that will last.” In an industry where precision and safety are everything, having a partner like NCW makes all the difference.
For more information on how NCW supports companies like Kloeckner Metals, visit www.teamncw.com.
