Steel King announces end of year retirement of Vice President of Sales, Don Heemstra.
Industry veteran played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s position as an industry leader to step down at end of year after Sales leadership transition to ensure continuity across customer relationships, strategic initiatives, and internal operations.
Stevens Point, WI — April 30, 2026 — Steel King Industries, a leading manufacturer of storage rack and material handling products has announced the upcoming retirement of Don Heemstra, the company’s Vice President of Sales at the end of 2026. This will conclude a distinguished career marked by significant contributions to the company’s growth, brand strength, and customer relationships.
Heemstra joined Steel King in 2003 as Director of Marketing and was named Director of Sales in 2013, and VP of Sales in 2014. Over the course of his 23 years with Steel King, Heemstra has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s position as a leader in the material handling and storage industry. Under his leadership, Steel King achieved substantial revenue growth, expanded into key markets, grew its dealer network, and strengthened its presence in high-demand sectors such as automation and cold storage. He also led the evolution of the company’s go-to-market strategy, aligning sales and marketing into a cohesive, high-performing organization.
Notable accomplishments during Heemstra’s tenure include:
- Introduction of the Armor Guard® protective railing product
- Establishment of Steel King’s Project Manager positions to better address jobsite and scheduling issues/tasks
- Steel King’s entry to providing racking for Automated Storage and Retrieval (AS/RS) solutions which led to the company selling its first high-rise pallet AS/RS rack-supported building in 2008 and first large-scale mini-load ASRS project in 2010
- Introducing the Steel King University (SKU) training event for dealers in 2011
- Launching the Steel King Dealer Council in 2024
- The product launch of SK Advantx, the structural bolt together racking solution for cold storage and automation in 2025
“Don’s impact on Steel King has been profound,” said Brian Pfannes, President of Steel King. “His sales leadership, industry expertise, and commitment to our dealers and customers have helped define who we are as a company today. We are incredibly grateful for his contributions and the strong foundation he will leave behind.”
As part of a proactive and carefully planned succession strategy, Steel King has begun a nationwide search to welcome a new Vice President of Sales & Marketing in Q3 or Q4 of 2026. This timing allows for a structured transition period, ensuring continuity across customer relationships, strategic initiatives, and internal operations.
“Our number one priority remains steadfast in supporting our team members and our customers by providing a smooth transition over the coming months,” added Pfannes. “By planning this transition well in advance, we are ensuring that our customers and partners will continue to experience the same level of service, responsiveness, and expertise they expect from Steel King.”
Steel King enters this transition from a position of strength, with a robust product portfolio, a strong backlog, and a dedicated team. The company remains committed to delivering industry-leading solutions and maintaining its customer-first approach.
“This transition represents an opportunity to build on the successes Don’s put in place,” added Pfannes. “We are honoring Don’s contributions and legacy while positioning Steel King for continued success in the years ahead.”
About Steel King Industries
Since 1970, Steel King Industries has been manufacturing a full line of material handling products, including selective pallet racks, dynamic flow storage systems, cantilever racks, portable racks, and custom shipping racks, along with industrial steel containers and guard railing. Products are made using only U.S. steel. Innovation, customization, and design strength have earned Steel King the reputation as a leader in the material-handling marketplace. With over 500 employees, Steel King is headquartered in Stevens Point, WI, with manufacturing facilities in Stevens Point and New London, WI and Rome, GA. For more information, visit steelking.com.
