Chuck LaTour
Chuck LaTour, Operations Manager, Olympic Steel, Schaumburg, IL
Believes careers start with curiosity. Transforms operations through practical thinking. Values mentorship, teamwork and growth.
More than 35 years ago, Chuck LaTour started his career in the metals industry as a slitter operator and took every opportunity to learn as much as he could about manufacturing. Over time, he picked up new skills, from running an edge-trimming machine at a scrap company to taking on different roles at service centers.
Chuck describes himself as a hands-on learner who always paid attention to the people around him and the lessons they had to offer. “I’ve always been that kind of person,” he says. “If someone shows me something once, I’ll take it from there.”
His career path reflects that mindset. After starting in production, he gradually moved through leadership roles including Slitter Lead, Inside Sales for slitting accounts, Production Manager, Plant Manager, and eventually Operations and general management positions. Along the way he helped open facilities and led teams in multiple locations.
Chuck joined Olympic Steel in July 2014 as Operations Manager, bringing decades of experience with him. One of his proudest accomplishments since then has been helping transform the Schaumburg division into the specialty metals hub it is today.
When he first arrived, the facility looked very different. The operation ran a single cut-to-length line, material handling was outdated, and most of the business focused on carbon steel. Over the years, the team expanded the building, added new equipment, and rethought how material moved through the facility. Today the plant runs three cut-to-length lines and processes mostly specialty metals.
The changes also included reorganizing how material is stored by introducing vertical sheet racking, allowing the team to move metal through the building faster and more efficiently. Chuck says the transformation is something the entire team takes pride in, especially when others across the company recognize the facility as a strong representation of Olympic Steel.
Support from leadership played a big role in that success. Chuck says having leaders who trusted him to make decisions allowed him to focus on running the operation and supporting the broader goals of the business.
Two Core Values guide his leadership style: Accountability and Integrity. Throughout his career, he has believed strongly in taking responsibility for the work and the people under his leadership. He also believes in being honest, direct and leading by example, so employees see the standards he expects in action. He says, “Show people that you do what you say you’re going to do.”
Damon Wos, General Manager for the Schaumburg division, agrees, saying, “Chuck leads by example and demonstrates Accountability and Respect in every interaction. His actions reflect the Company’s values, not just in words, but in daily decision-making. He sets the tone for others through consistency and a strong work ethic.”
Even after decades in the industry, Chuck says what he enjoys most about coming to work is the people, especially new employees who show potential. Helping them grow and develop a career is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.
For employees just starting out, his advice is simple: “Stay curious, learn from the people around you, and don’t be afraid to get involved in different areas of the business. Find a mentor to help guide you, ask questions and share your ideas.”
Chuck wrapped up with a final comment that he wanted to drive home: “A career can start anywhere, and with the right mindset, it can go much further than expected. Keep an open mind and remember that where you start doesn’t have to be where you finish.”
