Celebrating the Skilled Workforce Behind voestalpine Roll Forming Corporation
7 May, 2025
In the dynamic world of manufacturing, the quality and reliability of your components are crucial for smooth operations. At voestalpine Roll Forming Corporation (RFC), every high-quality component is the result of the dedication and expertise of our skilled workforce. In honor of National Skilled Trades Day, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make it all happen.
Roll Line Operators are the backbone of RFC, performing the intricate and demanding task of producing components that meet strict quality and tolerance standards. From setting up tooling to running components and troubleshooting issues, these operators shoulder significant responsibility. Success in this role requires mechanical aptitude, the ability to learn the nuances of their roll line, and the skill to identify and resolve issues without generating excess scrap. Even minor imbalances in the machine can lead to parts exceeding tolerance limits and needing to be scrapped.
Roll Line Operators must also be technically proficient, as many tasks involve computer programming. They need to read blueprints, use programming software, and produce parts that meet quality guidelines while ensuring production stays on schedule.
Training for Roll Line Operators at RFC is extensive and provided during company time. New operators start as Trainees and progress through skill-based and knowledge-based tests to reach the level of Master Roll Line Operator. Training includes both classroom instruction and guided hands-on experience. Additionally, RFC offers an Apprenticeship program in collaboration with JCTCS, a local community and technical college. This comprehensive four-year program produces highly skilled operators.
The extensive training required to become a Master Roll Line Operator highlights the skill and growth potential in this trade. Many operators spend their entire careers at RFC, with some having more than 40 years of service.
Tool and Die Makers are another essential part of RFC’s operations. Similar to Roll Line Operators, RFC offers a comprehensive apprenticeship program for Tool Makers, combining hands-on and classroom training. Before we can produce components, we need to design the rolls or tooling that shape the metal. Tool designers collaborate with our business development team to create tooling that meets customer specifications, and our Tool and Die Makers bring these designs to life.
This work is highly technical and requires precision. Each piece of tooling must meet exacting standards to achieve the desired tolerances and shapes. Unlike many roll formers who outsource this process, RFC produces all tooling and dies in-house, allowing us to work closely with customers and meet their specific needs without compromise.
Tool and Die Makers are vital to our ability to produce custom, challenging components. Their mechanical and technological expertise is invaluable to RFC.
RFC also offers value-added secondary technologies such as bending, welding, and laser cutting. These processes are supported by our skilled Machinists, Welders, and Technicians. From operating robotic tube benders to executing precise welds, our secondary technology team is exceptional.
Our secondary technologies adhere to high-quality standards and strict delivery deadlines. Team members coordinate with manufacturing, shipping, and quality teams to ensure timely and quality production. They also maintain the robotic machinery, ensuring everything from tube benders to 5-axis lasers operates smoothly.
These are just a few of the skilled labor roles that keep RFC running. While we can’t highlight every position, we rely on the expertise of every employee across our six locations. As we continue to serve new and existing markets, our dependence on our skilled team members will only grow.