Fourteen years ago, Robert came to M&T through a temp agency while between jobs. What seemed like just another placement quickly became the opportunity his uncle had always told him about. “My uncle worked at U.S. Steel for 26 years, and he always said, ‘If you ever get a chance to get into a mill, it’ll change your life,’” Robert recalls. “When I found out this was a mill, I went back and told him — and from then on, he’s been coaching me from afar.”
That guidance, paired with Robert’s determination, helped him build a career he’s proud of — one where he’s earned his place through hard work and consistency. Starting at the bottom, working night shifts for seven years, and taking on the tough jobs no one else wanted, he’s now one of the top guys in the shop, and he carries that responsibility with pride.
Today, Robert is a scrapyard crane operator — a role where precision and accountability are key. “A lot depends on me. If I put the raw metals together wrong, we’re talking about wasting $100,000 or more,” he explains. “I don’t mind the pressure. I actually welcome it. If I don’t get the chemistry right, nothing else moves forward.” For Robert, working alone suits him well. “I take the glory and the blame. I like that. It motivates me to get it right.”
Robert admits he never expected to find work like this, especially in Pittsburgh. “I’ve never had a job this challenging. I didn’t even know a place like this existed. But the work pulled me in — it
keeps you thinking, keeps you learning.” With years under his belt, Robert is now reaping the rewards of that commitment. “Now that I’ve got time in, I’ve earned some perks. I’m not on nights anymore. I’m the top guy now — and I still treat people with respect and help out where I can.”
When asked why he’d recommend working at M&T, his answer is simple and powerful: “The same reason my uncle told me — it’ll change your life. It changed mine.” He’s quick to credit M&T for helping him build stability for his family. “When I started here, I had just signed my mortgage. Now I’ve only got about four or five years left — I might have my house paid off before I retire.”
Robert’s story is a testament to what’s possible when hard work meets opportunity. From temp worker to seasoned leader, he’s built not only a career — but a future.
