The Man Behind the Metal

Many of you already know Alex Anderson, our lead fabricator, and have seen his amazing ability in the world of welding. Here's a little behind the scenes look at Alex and the role he has played with the launch of Montana Valley Metals.

Alex Anderson, Welding Foreman

1. Can you tell me about your journey with Montana Valley Metals? How long have you been with the company, and what initially drew you to this role in metal fabrication?

I started with Montana Valley Irrigation in July of 2020 as an irrigation technician. I was hired to work on everything pivot related with my primary role as a welder and fabricator. At the end of 2024, Montana Valley Metals launched, giving me the opportunity to focus more on fabrication. 

2. What's a typical day like for you as the lead fabricator? Walk me through the most challenging and most rewarding aspects of your work.

A typical day at Montana Valley Metals starts with a job brief in the morning about the goals for the day. Throughout the rest of the day, I fill in where I am needed - sales, fitting, welding, sandblasting, and powder coating are all things I could be doing to help get the job done. One of the challenges we have come to enjoy is taking the customers ideas and bringing them to life.

3. Family is important at Montana Valley. How has your family supported your career in metal fabrication, and how do you balance your professional responsibilities with your personal life?

I wouldn't be able to have the career that I have without my loving family and the support of my amazing wife who takes care of our home. In welding and fabrication, days can be long, so making sure I spend the time with my family when I can is very important to me.

4. Montana Valley Irrigation has been known for its quality craftsmanship. How have you carried this over to MVM, and what innovations or techniques are you most proud of implementing in your current role?

At Montana Valley Metals, quality is our goal! Many things go into making the best product, from the steel used, to the skill and ability of the team, all making sure we produce a long-lasting high-quality product that we are proud of! Some of the techniques I am most proud of implementing would have to be our ability to put out a high-quality finish with powder coating

and the ability to custom design and cut out products on our 5x10 plasma table.

5. Looking ahead, what are your professional goals for both you and the company over the next five years? Are there any specific skills or technologies you're eager to develop?

One of my life goals has always been to own or be a partner in a fab shop! My goal for Montana Valley Metals over the next five years is to continue to use leading technologies to produce the best quality products, one of these being a water jet table that is able to produce high quality finished parts. Ultimately, when someone needs something built, I want them to think of Montana Valley Metals!