Join us for a coffee and chat with John Leder, the CEO and Owner of Supreme Steel! John is set to receive the prestigious 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award at the ABA Gala on September 20th, a well-deserved recognition of his immense impact.
John's incredible journey began in Wassenaar, Netherlands, before his family relocated to Winnipeg when he was five. After meeting his wife, Sally, through their church youth groups, they settled in Edmonton. What was meant to be a temporary job driving trucks quickly turned into a lifelong career. John joined his father as a general labourer at Centennial Steel, planning to attend university. However, a natural talent for the industry emerged as he quickly climbed the ranks in the shop and field, learning to weld and run night shifts. Despite a brief return to university with plans to study law, the call of the steel industry proved irresistible.
His entrepreneurial spirit truly ignited while working for Triangle Steel. After the company declined his innovative proposal to equip a mobile repair truck, they encouraged him to start his own venture. This led to the humble beginnings of Supreme Steel. Starting with small odd jobs and gradually expanding to hire his brother and join the unions in 1974, John steadily grew the company. Supreme Steel built its own shop, continuously expanding, and eventually made strategic acquisitions across Canada, including Saskatoon, to become the industry leader it is today.
In 2005, Supreme Steel moved its operations to Acheson, building their stunning facility complete with a fabulous glass atrium that has become a hub for community events. The building also houses the Bridgespan Cafe and Grill, renowned for its amazing food. John's career, from his early days as a general labourer to leading a national powerhouse, is a true testament to perseverance, vision, and entrepreneurial drive.
Congratulations to John Leder on his Lifetime Achievement Award! We celebrate his tremendous impact on the steel industry, and his enduring contributions to Acheson and beyond. If you're in Acheson, swing by Supreme Steel to experience their fabulous atrium and enjoy an amazing lunch at Bridgespan!
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