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Steel Dynamics Expands Leadership for Strategic Growth

On October 19, 2026, Steel Dynamics, Inc. (NASDAQ/GS: STLD) made headlines by announcing a series of leadership promotions designed to strengthen its trajectory for long-term growth and operational excellence. In a statement, the company’s incoming President and CEO, Theresa E. Wagler, expressed her enthusiasm over recognizing the valuable contributions of six key leaders within the organization.

This latest round of promotions reflects Steel Dynamics’ commitment to cultivating talent internally while aiming for enhanced performance and innovation across its operations. With a focus on safety, performance, and putting people first, the promotions serve as a testament to the company's ongoing evolution and strategic direction.

Key Promotions Overview

Chad Bickford has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Steel Fabrication. His leadership since 2024 in overseeing the company's steel fabrication platform is crucial as he now takes on a greater role in shaping overall growth strategies. Since joining in 2003, he has held various operational roles that have significantly contributed to the company's strategy.

Jeff Hansen has also ascended to Senior Vice President, Environmental Sustainability and Energy. With a firm hold on the company’s decarbonization and sustainability strategies since 2021, Hansen will continue to spearhead efforts focusing on renewable energy and sustainability initiatives. His tenure at the company began in 1997, enriching the firm with his expertise related to safe operational practices and human resource management.

William T. (Tommy) Scruggs, now Senior Vice President of Flat Rolled Commercial and Processing, has been promoted for his impactful role in guiding the commercial strategy of the Flat Roll Steel Group. Scruggs joined Steel Dynamics in 2003 and has been central to the profitable management of flat rolled steel production and processing initiatives.

Additionally, further changes set to take effect on November 1, 2026, include Daniel Keown being appointed as Senior Vice President of Flat Rolled Steel Production. He will oversee three production sites located in Indiana, Mississippi, and Texas. Keown, who joined the company as a Process Engineer in 1998, has demonstrated consistent growth through various leadership roles.

Yury Krotov is stepping into the role of Vice President for Long Products Steel Operations, overseeing four mills that produce a variety of long steel products. Since 2000, Krotov has worked in various capacities and will now guide the production of specialized steel products.

Completing the list, Dominic Freiburger has been named as Vice President and Treasurer, where he will manage functions critical to the company's financial health. Joining Steel Dynamics in 2012, Freiburger brings extensive experience from his previous tenure at Intel Corporation.

Commitment to Safety and Innovation

Steel Dynamics emphasizes its culture of safety, performance, and innovation. The recognized leaders exemplify these values. With their extensive experience and commitment to the company’s strategic pillars, these promotions are expected to drive the organization forward as it embraces new challenges and leverages growth opportunities.

About Steel Dynamics

Founded in 1993, Steel Dynamics is a major player in industrial metals solutions, operating facilities not only across the United States but also in Mexico. The company adopts a circular manufacturing approach that prioritizes sustainability, producing quality metal products with a lower carbon footprint while utilizing recycled materials. Regarded as one of the largest steel producers and metal recyclers in North America, Steel Dynamics continues to diversify its offerings with aluminum products and remains committed to excellence and integrity in its operations.