Emily Stewart
STI/SPFA recently spoke with Emily Stewart, National Sales Manager of Light Products and Marketing Manager at The Strong Company, Inc., about her career in the steel fabrication industry.
STI/SPFA: Tell us about the history of your company.
Emily Stewart: The Strong Company, Inc. was founded in 1959 by William A. Strong, Sr. Over the next 54 years, Mr. Strong owned thirteen companies and operated manufacturing plants in Arkansas, Illinois, South Carolina and Texas. These Companies mined vermiculite ore, processed and blended materials such as vermiculite and perlite, and manufactured specially designed mixers, pumps and other equipment for the installation of these and other products.
During his career, Mr. Strong was awarded 10 patents and was considered an industry leader and innovator in every market where Strong products were sold.
Today, we offer solutions for in-ground vinyl lined pools, roof substrate repairs, above-ground steel fuel storage tank insulation, sanitary sewer structure rehabilitation, stormwater pipe lining, and cementitious grouting. The Strong Company, Inc. celebrated its 65th anniversary in 2024.
STI/SPFA: How did you get your start in the industry?
Stewart: In 1993, we received a call from STI/SPFA informing us they were looking to create a premix of cement and perlite that would serve as a lightweight thermal insulation for aboveground steel fuel storage tanks. Strong was well-versed in cementitious mixes and had the manufacturing capabilities to produce this premix as well as the equipment to properly install it (Fillermate). Within a few weeks, a representative from Strong attended the Annual Meeting and in March of 1994 we began producing FIREGUARD® premix.
STI/SPFA: What do you like best about working in the industry?
Stewart: Hands down, the people. I deal with some really great folks every day and we are lucky to have had such long-standing relationships in this industry.
STI/SPFA: What has been the greatest challenge in your career?
Stewart: For me, the greatest challenge has been mastering the technical side of so many of our products since I have a background in marketing. However, understanding the science and technology behind products like FIREGUARD® has helped me to be a resource to installers and engineers rather than just a sales and customer service representative.
STI/SPFA: What advice would you give someone who is interested in working in the industry?
Stewart: With the growth that we have experienced in this industry over the last few years, now is the best time to be a part of the steel tank industry!
STI/SPFA: What do you think will be the biggest challenge facing the industry in the next three to five years?
Stewart: Something that we often reference is a gap in the workforce. Over the last couple of decades there seems to have been a shift in interest from technical careers to more digital roles, which poses a problem for the construction industry as a whole. Things do seem to be improving, but it’s always something that we are paying attention to.
STI/SPFA: How has STI/SPFA Membership helped you and your company succeed and grow in today’s marketplace?
Stewart: Because our products are sold through distribution by Morrison Brothers, being a member of STI/SPFA has given us access to the end users of our products. By attending meetings and events, we are able to meet face to face with some of the folks who use FIREGUARD® regularly and to get their feedback and express our appreciation.
