Employee Referral Program: Real Stories, Real Impact

Lea & Faith's story highlights what can happen when a door opens and someone walks through it ready to learn, grow and make their mark.

Great people know great people! We see it every day in the friendships, teamwork and trust across Olympic Steel. That same connection inspires our Employee Referral Program—employees who love where they work helping friends and family build a future here too.

At Olympic Steel, referrals are more than just a hiring strategy. Every referral starts with trust and the belief that someone you know can succeed here. When employees refer a friend, they’re not just passing along a name, they’re vouching for someone they believe in. And more often than not, it pays off.

We’ve seen the impact firsthand, so we wanted to share some of those success stories – real examples of how a simple referral can lead to new opportunities for everyone involved.

Lea & Faith’s story highlights what can happen when a door opens and someone walks through it ready to learn, grow and make their mark.

Lea & Faith’s Story

Faith Hoyt had been working at a local manufacturing plant when she heard about McCullough Industries through a mutual friend—Lea Hall’s cousin. The job was closer to home and offered a chance to learn new skills and grow in her career. Faith admits she was nervous about applying at first, since she didn’t have welding experience. But after learning that McCullough values determination just as much as experience, she decided to go for it.

“Faith was interested in learning, and that says a lot,” Lea said. “We’re always willing to train people who are motivated and want to grow.”

When she joined McCullough, Faith opened a new chapter not only in her own story, but in the company’s as well, becoming their first female welder. From day one, her determination stood out. “When I first started, I had a lot to learn,” Faith said. “My teammates were patient and supportive, and that made all the difference.”

Her drive quickly turned into momentum and engagement. “Faith is engaged, dependable, and involved in everything she can be,” Lea said. “She cares, and that’s the kind of attitude that lifts the whole team. She’s a perfect fit for McCullough.”

Within her first year, Faith joined the Safety Committee, completed Train-the-Trainer certification, and is participating in the Human and Organizational Performance (HOP) training program. She’s the kind of person who’s always willing to get involved and lend a hand—qualities her teammates and leadership notice and appreciate.

Faith says these experiences simply remind her that she can accomplish great things. “When people find out I’m a welder, they’re always surprised,” she said. “I love proving that I can do it, and I hope more women see that they can, too.”

She says one of her favorite parts of the job is how everyone looks out for each other. “I love it here,” Faith said. “Everyone works together.”

For Lea, seeing Faith’s journey has been both rewarding and affirming. “Her area Production Lead came to me not long after she started and told me how great she was doing.” Lea said. “I was confident Faith would work hard, but seeing how much she’s accomplished makes me proud to have played even a small part in her journey.”

Faith is one of three employees Lea has referred to McCullough, including her brother and another colleague, and each has become a valued part of the team. “If you love where you work,” Lea said, “you should always want to share it with others.”

And stories like these remind us that opportunity doesn’t stop with one hire. Each referral strengthens our culture, our teams, and the belief that there’s room for everyone to learn, contribute, and succeed.

The Impact of Employee Referrals

We know that great people know great people. Our Employee Referral Program isn’t just about filling open positions; it’s about creating opportunities, bringing in talented people who share our values, and recognizing the employees who help make it happen.

Lea and Faith’s story is another great example of the power of referrals. From this one connection, Faith discovered a career path she loves, Lea found pride in helping someone succeed, and McCullough Industries gained a skilled, engaged employee.

Be Part of the Story!

Do you know someone who would be a great fit for Olympic Steel? Help them take the next step in their career and make a difference in yours by encouraging them to apply at https://www.olysteel.com/employment

To learn more about the Employee Referral Program, visit https://www.iamolympicsteel.com/refer-a-friend