2025 Annual Award Winners

At Steel Specialty, Inc., our success has always been driven by people. Each year, we take time to recognize the individuals whose dedication, teamwork, and character help shape our culture and strengthen our company.

We are proud to announce and celebrate our 2025 Annual Award Winners.

High Five of the Year – Gage Jackson

The High Five Program was created to encourage peer recognition and celebrate the everyday moments that make a difference. Employees have the opportunity to nominate their coworkers for extraordinary acts of service, teamwork, and support. Each month, two employees are selected from the nominations and awarded a $25 gift card, and at the end of the year, the High Five of the Year Award is presented to the employee who received the most nominations.

This year, the award goes to Gage Jackson. He was nominated EIGHT times throughout the year for his positive attitude and willingness to help others.

Bridge Builder Award – Torri Valderrama

The Bridge Builder Award honors an employee who excels at fostering strong, collaborative relationships across every facet of our business. It celebrates individuals who consistently strengthen connections with SSI team members, vendors, clients, and subcontractors.

Torri Valderrama has distinguished herself through exceptional communication, collaboration, and professionalism. She plays a role in nearly every aspect of Steel Specialty, Inc. - communicating across departments with clarity and positivity, willingly stepping in wherever help is needed, and approaching every challenge with professionalism and attention to detail. Her ability to bring people together and maintain alignment across projects has played a key role in driving both teamwork and successful outcomes.

Excellence in Service Award – Eddie Reese

The Excellence in Service Award recognizes an individual who exemplifies dedication, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to quality. This award celebrates those who consistently go above and beyond in their role, demonstrating reliability, professionalism, and pride in their work.

Nominated by his peers, Eddie Reese is recognized as a dependable team player who is always willing to help others, even when under pressure to meet his own deadlines. His professionalism, reliability, and steady performance make him, someone others trust and rely on daily.

Beyond his technical skill, he brings a positive presence to the workplace. His quick wit and approachable attitude often lighten the mood, strengthening team morale while keeping everyone focused on the task at hand. Through his dedication, service mindset, and commitment to excellence, he consistently delivers the kind of experience that builds trust and helps SSI thrive.

Man of Steel Award – Jesubel Velazquez

The Man of Steel Award is presented to an exceptional shop employee who embodies the core values of craftsmanship, reliability, and leadership. It honors individuals whose skill, work ethic, and commitment to excellence set the standard within our operations.

Jesubel Velazquez represents these qualities in every aspect of his work. His dedication, skill, and leadership make him a model team member and a source of inspiration for those around him.

F.W. Mauldin Legacy Award – Jesubel Velazquez

The F.W. Mauldin Legacy Award, named in honor of our founder, Farrell Mauldin, recognizes an employee who embodies the core principles on which SSI was built—exceptional craftsmanship, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to service.

For 25+ years, Jesubel Velazquez has exemplified the values and legacy that have guided Steel Specialty. He is a man of few words, but his actions speak louder than anything he could say.  His coworkers describe him as always working, always dependable, always smiling, and always willing to step in when help is needed. He represents the craftsmanship, integrity, and leadership that our founder believed were the foundation of a great company. 

These awards represent more than achievements—they reflect the values, teamwork, and dedication that continue to define Steel Specialty, Inc.

We extend our sincere congratulations and gratitude to Gage, Torri, Eddie, and Jesubel. Your contributions strengthen our company, our culture, and our future.