Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Steffensmeier Welding & Manufacturing

RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Steffensmeier Welding & Manufacturing of Lee County. Throughout this Congress, Ranking Member Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties. 

“Ben Steffensmeier’s small town shop that grew into a successful business exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit,”said Ranking Member Ernst. “Thanks to the leadership of his wife Jenny, his work ethic and commitment to serving his community live on in his company’s work today. I’m proud to recognize the entire team at Steffensmeier Welding & Manufacturing for their leadership and dedication to quality services in southeastern Iowa.”

After graduating from high school and learning how to weld, Ben Steffensmeier founded Steffensmeier Welding & Manufacturing as a one-person welding shop doing small repair jobs for farmers and local businesses. Since those humble beginnings in 1982, the business has grown into a 40,000 sq. ft. facility now located in Pilot Grove. Today, Steffensmeier Welding & Manufacturing provides their customers with laser cut, machined, welded, and fabricated products and also takes on a variety of custom projects. Although Ben passed away in 2015, the company continues to carry on his legacy under the direction of his wife, Jenny, who took over operations in 2011. Under her leadership, the business continues to uphold a dedication to quality commercial welding and manufacturing services.

Stay tuned as Ranking Member Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with her Small Business of the Week award.

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