Welcome to another edition of our employee spotlight series! Today, we are excited to introduce you to Anthony Kennedy. With eight years at CSW, Anthony has progressed from his initial role in shipping and receiving to his current position as Quality Manager. This transition has given him a valuable perspective that spans both the office and the manufacturing floor. Read the blog below to explore his career insights, daily routines, favorite hobbies, and some fun questions along the way!
How many years have you been with CSW?
I will celebrate 8 years with Capital Steel & Wire this November. I began my career with the company in an entry-level role in the Shipping & Receiving Department at our Hull Road facility. Throughout the years, I have continued to develop my skills, expand my knowledge of the steel industry, and gain a deeper understanding of our internal processes. Those experiences have provided me with valuable opportunities for growth, today I am proud to serve as the Quality Manager.
Working across both the office and the manufacturing floor gives you a unique perspective of CSW. What’s your favorite part of each setting?
My favorite part of every role I’ve had is gaining a new perspective on our company. I enjoy meeting with team members, learning what they do, and getting to know them beyond just their job titles. Seeing the organization through so many different lenses has given me valuable firsthand insight and has helped me learn more about how we all contribute to our success.
Do you have any pets? If so, tell me their name(s). And upload any photos you have of them through question 4.
Yes. We have an 8-month-old Pitski! His name is Leo. He brings some ENERGY and is the best cuddler!!
What is a favorite family tradition that your household looks forward to every year?
One of our favorite fall traditions is visiting the apple orchard as a family. We spend the day enjoying all the fall fun, gathering apples for homemade apple pie, and indulging in cinnamon sugar doughnuts and hot apple cider. It’s a day full of great memories and seasonal treats!
If you were a contestant on a game show, which one would you be most likely to win?
“Alone”- It is a survival-based series that I really enjoy watching.
Looking back, what is something you wish you had known on your very first day in this industry?
This is a tough question! I guess I didn’t realize how much steel plays a role in our everyday lives. I find it interesting that much of the steel most people never notice is often the most critical. Some may admire a finished car, but behind the scenes there are thousands of engineered steel components making it possible. Being in Quality, I get to see how much effort goes into ensuring that material meets specification before it ever becomes part of a customer’s product!
What is the absolute best podcast or audiobook you’ve listened to recently?
Theo Von- “This Past Weekend” (I love a good laugh!)
What is the most memorable game, match, or sporting event you’ve ever experienced live?
“TROUBLE WITH THE SNAP” – On 10/17/2015, MSU was playing against U of M. MSU was down by 2 points with the score sitting at 23-21, only 10 seconds remaining in regulation. Michigan lined up to punt and run out the clock, but they botched the snap! The punter bobbled it, then fumbled the ball! Michigan State’s Jalen Watts-Jackson scooped the ball and returned it for a 38-yard touchdown to secure the W for our Spartans! The most thrilling play I have ever personally witnessed!
Paper planner or digital calendar?
Digital Calendar
Working in total silence or with background noise/music?
When it’s time to lock in and get focused, I like to have some background music playing. It helps get the creative juices flowing and keeps me in the zone.
Working solo or collaborating in a group?
Collaborating in a group setting. Reason being: “When we challenge each other, we reach the best outcomes.”
What is a common misconception about the steel industry that you’ve encountered?
“Stainless steel never rusts”- Stainless steel is highly corrosion-resistant, but under certain environmental conditions, it can still corrode.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve seen or read recently that changed your perspective?
Coaching my sons has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. This year, though, I decided to take a backseat and simply be Dad, cheering on my oldest son from the sideline. That change has given me a fresh perspective. Our conversations after practice have been better than ever, and I’ve enjoyed hearing his thoughts, challenges, and excitement about the season. It’s been a great reminder that sometimes stepping back allows you to appreciate the journey in a whole new way.
What is a major industry trend or technological shift you are keeping your eye on right now?
Artificial Intelligence: I am curious to see where it goes and how it will reshape job functions and day-to-day responsibilities.
What is the most memorable “win” or project milestone you’ve experienced at CSW so far?
Man, the journey itself has been extremely rewarding! One of my fondest memories is my time as Plant Manager at Eden Road. I enjoyed helping employees grow in their careers, streamlining processes, and creating efficiencies that contributed to the facility’s overall success. Seeing positive results of those efforts and the growth of both the team and the operation was incredibly rewarding.
What’s a professional goal you are currently working toward?
I am working on my ability to be more proactive versus reactive in identifying opportunities to improve our Quality Management System.
Time travel to the past OR time travel to the future?
Traveling back to the past! There’s something special about revisiting old memories and enjoying a bit of nostalgia.
Knowing all the answers OR asking all the right questions?
Asking the right questions! You can always find the right answers through a good conversation!
What is a skill or trade you’ve picked up outside of work that ended up being surprisingly useful?
Golf! I am terrible, but my game continues to improve through repetition.
What makes you feel most authentically like yourself?
Hunting, fishing & spending time with friends and family.
Beyond just finishing your tasks or resting, what specifically leaves you feeling fulfilled at the end of a week?
Knowing that I gave it my all in every regard!
What is a work habit, assumption, or strategy you had to unlearn to move to the next level in your career?
Never assume! When you think you have it figured out, think again.
We hope you enjoyed this addition of the CSW employee spotlight series. Stay tuned for more, all through out the year!
