[NASHWAUK, MN] – Mesabi Metallics Company LLC (Mesabi Metallics) welcomed more than 600 visitors from across the region to its Fall Open House on Tuesday, November 18, offering the public a behind-the-scenes look at Minnesota’s newest and most advanced taconite mining operation and an up-close look at Minnesota’s largest mining trucks.
During the event, guests toured the Mesabi project site, met the company’s engineers and saw some of the largest mining equipment in the world—including the 400-ton 980E-5 Komatsu haul trucks, the largest ever to operate in Minnesota.
“With our mining equipment on site and ready to operate, we’re entering an exciting new phase as we move closer to full operations,” said Joe Broking, President & CEO of Mesabi Metallics. “This event was a chance to celebrate that progress with the community that’s been behind us every step of the way. Our next focus is building the team—hiring 350 skilled people to help bring this project to life and power the Iron Range’s economy for decades to come.”
“What stood out most at the event was the pride and optimism from the people of the Iron Range,” said Larry Sutherland, President & COO of Mesabi Metallics. “This project is creating long-term opportunity, supporting families and strengthening our region. Seeing that excitement firsthand reminds us why this work matters.”
In July, Mesabi Metallics announced its $110 million purchase of a new fleet of mining equipment from global heavy equipment leader Komatsu, through Mesabi Metallics’ partnership with Road Machinery & Supplies Co., a Minnesota-based distributor of construction and mining equipment with offices in Virginia, Minnesota.
“It was exciting to see the public experience our machines firsthand—especially our 400-ton 980E-5 haul trucks, proudly built in Peoria, Illinois. The excitement at Mesabi’s event was palpable, and it highlighted how American manufacturing and regional partnerships can power economic growth for local communities,” said John Ward, Senior Vice President for Mining at Komatsu North America.
Mike Sill, CEO of Road Machinery & Supplies Co. added, “It’s been rewarding to see our team’s efforts come to life on a project of this scale and to share that with our neighbors on the Iron Range. We’re proud to continue supporting the equipment, training and service that will keep this project running safely and efficiently for years to come.”
