Company History
In 1983, Lowry "Lowe" Porter, Jr. got in his $400 1964 Chevy Step-side pickup with a welder, cutting torch, fire extinguisher, a little experience, and much determination, and founded Porter Welding. The first shop was in Decatur, Ga with one employee. A mere four years later Porter Welding moved to a 500 sq. ft. pre-manufactured building in Conyers, Ga and employed eight people.
In 1987, Lowe hired Mike Hisky as a bookkeeper and welder's helper and Ferdell James as a welder. Both of these men continue to work for the company. Ferdell James is now a field crew leadman and Mike is Vice President of Plant Operations. Two weeks after setting up shop, Rockdale County's zoning ordinances forced the company to move. They quickly located and rented a 6,000 sq. ft. building on Steve Reynolds Blvd. in Norcross, Ga.
In 1989, Porter Welding incorporated as Porter Welding and Erecting, Inc., and in the same year Daryl Porter, Lowe's Brother, was hired as a welder. Daryl is now production manager for the company. Long-standing employees generate stability and create an atmosphere of cooperation that Porter Steel, Inc. still strives to maintain.
As is possible with any business, Porter Steel, Inc. fell subject to financial problems. In the late 1980's, out of respect for his 15 employees and their dependence on the company, Lowe decided to fight through the rough times. After five years of praying, struggling, and persevering, Porter Welding and Erecting began to take off.
In 1991, the company had to move again, not because of regulations but because of explosive growth. The move to Arcado Road in Lilburn gave Porter Steel, Inc. (renamed in conjuction with the move), the necessary room for expansion it needed in order to become a viable competitior in the growing structural steel market.
In 1997, with about 45 empoyees, Porter Steel, Inc. experienced a record-breaking year and continued its growth for the next couple of years.
In 2000 through 2004 the company wrestled with the global issues we all faced, but persevered through that difficult time. In 2004, Porter Steel, Inc. recognized another opportunity to grow, and with about 70 employees and a little change in our structure, we realized a considerable improvement in our organization.
This year, with about 95 employees, Porter Steel, Inc. continues to set and accomplish measurable goals that are geared and focused on being the preferred steel contractor and employer of choice.