Welcome to the “Material Handling Helpful Tools Series”. 
This series will blog spotlight many different material handling professionals and provide helpful information for the material handling industry. Our goal is to introduce you to individuals and websites that can improve your success in the industry. Today, we will introduce you to Kevin O’Neill from Steele Solutions, Inc.
1. Tell us a little about yourself? Interests outside of work, family, pets, hobbies, entertainment, special talents.
I am a sports junkie…I love sports trivia and other useless information. In my spare time, I love to coach my kids sports teams (especially basketball). I have 4 kids, and between all of them, I have coached over 40 different teams over the past 12 years. When not coaching, I do enjoy golfing and hanging out with my wife.
2. What is your role in the organization?
I am one of three owners, and I run the Sales and Marketing organization at Steele Solutions, Inc.
3. How did your career path land you in this role?
A little bit of luck and a lot of hard work. I am a huge believer in things happening for a reason. I followed my gut (it is big enough to see from a distance) and made a couple of drastic changes which led me to the spot I am today. Things like leaving an established company to go to a start up company and chase the American Dream of owning my own business.
4. What is the most exciting aspect of your job?
The challenge of new and complex applications keeps me learning. I really enjoy learning about the end users that our customers sell to and what the work platform will be used for.
5. What makes yourself or your company unique and sets you apart from the rest of the industry?
We call it the Steele Solutions Experience. Rather than “giving good customer service” which everyone claims, we give our customers an entirely different experience than anyone else in our industry. We understand their needs AND WANTS and work hard to accomplish them every time.
6. What product do you feel has the biggest impact on the material handling industry and is often overlooked?
The beauty of our product is it is 100% custom every time, so though it is not a sexy product, a well designed work platform can really create a great space for end users.
7. What is one tip or bit of advice that you can leave with our readers?
The better you can understand what you want to do on top of the mezzanine, the more economical design you can have (yes it can save you money!)
8. What are the biggest changes you see with Material Handling in the future?
Technology from 3D printing to ASRS affordability may create many changes.
Phoenix, AZ 85009