Meet Tim Gelnett

About Tim

Tim Gelnett is the Vice President of Operations at Niagara Specialty Metals. In his role, he helps manage multiple departments and supports inventory control, sales and quoting, order entry, customer service, and the hiring of production staff—while continually working to meet the company’s goals, mission, values, and beliefs.

Tim began his career at Niagara in 1995 as an intern while studying Mechanical Engineering and Science at the University at Buffalo. He was hired full-time in 1996, starting as a production worker before moving into the rolling mills. He later ran the sheet mill, became head roller of the rolling mill, and stepped into leadership as the company transitioned into an ESOP.

Why Ownership Culture Matters

Everyone cares about what they do because they own part of the company. It’s a reputation that’s been built and protected since 1982. When the company does well, we all do well. Ownership changes how people treat one another—it becomes less about production versus management and more about a shared willingness to work together and make improvements. The work feels purposeful, not extractive.

What Customers Might Be Surprised By

There are not many rolling mills—especially sheet mills—that still use tongs. Customers are often fascinated by how Niagara processes slab all the way down into finished sheet products, something that is increasingly rare to observe firsthand.

In the Plant

Tim’s favorite equipment is the rolling mills. He spent a lot of time learning about them to make improvements to Niagara's overall process of rolling steel. It was his first managerial position and management trusted him to make it right. There is a lot of pride and satisfaction of processing items the right way, when at that time there were so many quality problems.

If he could trade jobs with someone for a day, it would be with Bob Shabala, as president. Tim has done most of the other jobs in the company and feels that he could handle the decisions that position entails.

Outside of Work

Outside of Niagara, Tim enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, and running fantasy football and baseball leagues. His first job was at Carvel Ice Cream, where he handled customer service, cleaned equipment, and made ice cream cakes—a role he jokes explains his continued love for ice cream.

Advice for New Team Members

Always ask questions—especially if you don’t understand something in the processing. Be on time, respect the rules, and stay curious.

Favorite Memory at Niagara

One of Tim’s most meaningful memories is watching operators he hired—many with little to no experience— grow into skilled, reliable steelworkers. Seeing individuals overcome early struggles and become integral parts of Niagara’s culture is something he finds especially rewarding.