Jason Mayer
STI/SPFA recently spoke with Jason Mayer, Vice President Sales – Manufactured Products at TrueNorth Steel, about his career in the steel fabrication industry.
STI/SPFA: Tell us about the history of your company.
Jason Mayer: The story of TrueNorth Steel began in 1945, when Norwegian immigrant Ole Rommesmo Sr. founded his first company, Fargo Tank. From the start, the business was guided by Ole Sr.’s steadfast values: integrity, humility, focus, commitment, and knowledge.
Over the years, Fargo Tank expanded through strategic acquisitions, broadening its steel capabilities and establishing a strong presence across North America. This growth ultimately evolved Fargo Tank into TrueNorth Steel, a trusted leader in steel solutions known for quality, expertise, and innovation. These defining traits reflect Ole Sr.’s character and continue to guide the TrueNorth Steel team today.
Client-centered growth has always been at the heart of TrueNorth Steel’s success. In 2011, the company expanded into Montana and Wyoming with the acquisition of Roscoe Steel & Culvert Co. A decade later, in 2021, TrueNorth Steel reached another milestone with the simultaneous acquisitions of Beck Steel in Lubbock, Texas, and a large fabrication facility in West Fargo, North Dakota. These additions increased fabrication capacity by more than 450,000 square feet, further strengthening the company’s ability to deliver exceptional products and services nationwide.
Today, with over 850,000 square feet of manufacturing space, TrueNorth Steel remains a family-owned company led by Ole Rommesmo Jr. and the TrueNorth Steel leadership team. Together, they continue to balance tradition with innovation, honoring the values that started it all while advancing the company’s legacy of delivering high-performing, quality solutions.
STI/SPFA: How did you get your start in the industry?
Mayer: I began my career in the drainage pipe sector, spending three decades working with both concrete and corrugated steel pipe in the road and civil construction industry. In 2022, I joined TrueNorth Steel as VP of Sales for Manufactured Products, expanding my experience to include the company’s steel tank operations.
My years in the pipe industry provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in infrastructure and manufacturing, and these insights continue to shape my approach in my role at TrueNorth Steel.
STI/SPFA: What do you like best about working in the industry?
Mayer: What I appreciate most about working in this industry is the opportunity to solve complex problems for our customers. Every project presents unique challenges, and I find it rewarding to collaborate with clients to develop solutions that truly meet their needs. This problem-solving aspect keeps the work engaging and meaningful.
Additionally, there’s a strong sense of camaraderie among producers in our field. Whether we’re sharing best practices, tackling industry-wide challenges, or celebrating successes, the collaborative spirit helps drive innovation and fosters a supportive professional community.
Finally, I’m passionate about the ability to help our people and product lines grow. Investing in team development and expanding our offerings not only strengthens our company but also ensures we continue to deliver value and stay ahead in a competitive marketplace. Seeing our employees advance and our products evolve is one of the most fulfilling parts of my role.
STI/SPFA: What’s been your favorite or most memorable moment of your career so far?
Mayer: Looking back on my career, it’s nearly impossible to pinpoint a single favorite moment. What stands out instead is the sum of experiences and the growth we’ve achieved as a company.
The most rewarding part, though, has been seeing our team members develop, taking on new challenges, advancing in their careers, and contributing to TrueNorth Steel’s success. Those moments of growth, both for the company and our people, are what I value most and what continue to inspire me every day.
STI/SPFA: What advice would you give someone who is interested in working in the industry?
Mayer: Be open-minded and willing to learn from every experience. Listen carefully to others, whether that is colleagues, customers, or mentors, because understanding different perspectives is key to growth and success in this industry.
STI/SPFA: What do you think will be the biggest challenge facing the industry in the next three to five years?
Mayer: Retaining skilled talent, integrating AI into sales and manufacturing, and keeping pace with evolving standards and specifications.
STI/SPFA: How has STI/SPFA Membership helped you and your company succeed and grow in today’s marketplace?
Mayer: STI/SPFA plays a vital role in supporting our company’s growth and success by establishing and maintaining industry standards, promoting best practices, and fostering innovation. As an STI-certified fabricator, TrueNorth Steel benefits from access to reliable standards and technical guidance that ensure our products meet the highest quality and safety requirements. These standards are recognized by regulatory authorities and help us comply with federal regulations, which enhances our credibility and competitiveness in the marketplace.
STI/SPFA also provides valuable resources for training, certification, and networking, allowing us to stay ahead of evolving industry trends and specifications. Membership enables us to collaborate with other producers, share knowledge, and adopt new technologies, such as advanced coatings and composite tank designs, that improve our manufacturing processes and product offerings.
By participating in STI/SPFA, TrueNorth Steel is positioned as a trusted provider of steel tanks and related products, which opens doors to new business opportunities and strengthens our reputation with customers and partners. The Institute’s advocacy for infrastructure investment and sustainability further supports our long-term growth by aligning our products with national priorities and market demands.
