Zekelman Industries to invest $120 million in Arkansas expansion

Independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer Zekelman Industries will invest up to $120 million to expand the manufacturing capabilities and product offerings of its subsidiary, Atlas Tube, in Blytheville, Ark.

The project will allow the company to manufacture inline steel tube galvanizing products in size ranges that it says are not currently available in North America and increase its total number of employees in the area to 300.

Along with the expansion, Zekelman has announced it will provide $250,000 to Arkansas Northeastern College to support area students in the steel industry and aviation maintenance degree programs. The funds, distributed over the next five years, will cover educational costs for at least 10 individuals annually who are obtaining Associate of Applied Science degrees. These students also will have the opportunity to pursue potential internship positions at Atlas Tube’s two facilities in Blytheville.

“Education and skills training are crucial to developing the next generation of workers. Our goal at Zekelman is to prepare, nurture, and inspire students entering the thriving and well-paying steel industry,” said COO Tom Muth.