FRANK STOCKDALE
President/CEO
Star Iron Works Inc.
Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania
BEST ADVICE I EVER RECEIVED?
It’s hard to choose one. I think it’s good advice to learn from your mistakes and stay calm when faced with adversity, or the saying: “Good quality is remembered long after a good price is forgotten!”
WHAT ARE YOU HEARING MOST FROM YOUR CUSTOMERS?
Material acquisition issues, which are a challenge that we are also working on internally every day. We have seen some positive trends in our own material acquisition that will hopefully positively impact production lead times.
FAVORITE PART OF WORKING IN THE WATER WELL INDUSTRY?
For the past 50 years I have really enjoyed working with a small group of tightly knit customers who know their industry so well.
OTHER THAN SUPPLY CHAIN ISSUES, THE GREATEST CHALLENGE FACING MANUFACTURERS/SUPPLIERS?
It is currently challenging to hire and train new employees. Locally, attraction to the trades has been limited but seems to be improving. Luckily, we have many long-time, experienced, and knowledgeable employees who are happy to pass on their expertise to newer machinists.
WHICH DRILLING PRODUCTS ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT IN 2023?
I think the proliferation of small, portable rigs is exciting. The trend shift from larger rigs to smaller ones is one to watch.
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE OF THE WATER WELL CUSTOMER-SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIP LOOK LIKE TO YOU?
A continuation of what we have: a small group of well-educated small businesses working together.