About Mesabi Metallics

Mesabi Metallics is an advanced construction-stage iron ore mine and pelletization project located on over 16,000 acres of land in Nashwauk, Minnesota, on the former site of the Butler mine. The project has the capacity to annually produce a total of 7-million metric tons of Direct Reduction (DR) grade iron ore pellets over several decades of mine life. 
 
The pelletizing facility is being constructed and is expected to commence operations in 2026. The project represents a record-breaking investment in Minnesota. Mesabi Metallics has already invested more than $1.7 billion in the project and will invest an additional $650 million in the project before completion.
 
Following the completion of construction on its pellet plant, Mesabi Metallics intends to explore investment into a Green Steel operation. The development of Green Steel represents a significant step toward the United States’ net-zero vision, advancing the decarbonization of domestic steel production.

Sustainable Mining Practices

At Mesabi Metallics, we are dedicated to minimizing our environmental footprint through innovative practices and efficient resource management today, with an eye toward the production of decarbonized Green Steel tomorrow. We aim to earn the respect of the communities in which we operate, and we do right by the land that provides the resources to power our world.

Land reclamation efforts aim to ensure harmony with the surrounding ecosystem. Recognizing its connection to the community, the company is implementing robust ESG practices and participates in educational initiatives, development programs, and environmental stewardship efforts.

OUR VISION & VALUES

VISION

By leading with unmatched reliability, we enable our global partners to materially reduce carbon emissions from the manufacturing and consumption of steel, creating a stronger, greener future for generations to come.

 

VALUES

Sustainability: The safety of our people is our number one priority. A secure work environment is essential for preventing accidents, fostering a positive work culture and ensuring the continued success and sustainability of our operations. Additionally, we are dedicated to minimizing our environmental footprint through innovative practices and efficient resource management today, with an eye toward the production of decarbonized Green Steel tomorrow. We aim to earn the respect of the communities in which we operate, and we do right by the land that provides the resources to power our world.

Integrity: We conduct our business with the highest ethical standards, pledging trust, transparency and honest communication in all our dealings. We are accountable for our actions and committed to doing what is right, even in challenging situations.

Innovation: We embrace new technologies and creative solutions to increase efficiencies, enhance our mining operations, reduce environmental impact and drive advancements across our industry.

Inclusivity: We value diverse perspectives and strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone is, and feels, respected. Our commitment to inclusivity drives better decision-making and reflects our belief that diverse teams achieve greater success.

Teamwork: Collaboration, respect and open communication are the cornerstones of our success. We believe that everyone’s role is equally important and each teammate is expected to be focused on achieving our safety, environmental and production goals together.

Determination: We approach every challenge with relentless resolve and a focus on achieving our objectives. Determination drives us to overcome obstacles, persist in the face of adversity and continuously pursue excellence.

Performance: We set high standards for ourselves and are dedicated to achieving superior results in all aspects of our operations. Our commitment to performance means we consistently strive for excellence and measure our success by the value we deliver to stakeholders.

LEADERSHIP

Joe Broking, President & CEO

Joe has more than 27 years of combined experience in industry in the areas of executive management, operations management, human resources management, corporate finance, treasury, capital fundraising, investor relations, compliance and risk management. 

As Director, President and Chief Executive Officer of Tacora Resources Inc., Joe led the transformation of the Scully Mine. Joe’s prior experience includes work with several large multi-national corporations, international assignments, manufacturing management as well as economic development. 

Larry Sutherland, President & COO

Larry has 49 years of experience in the Minerals & Metals industrial sectors.He began his career as a union millwright with National Steel Pellet Company in 1975. Over the years, he worked his way up to management roles including Plant Manager, General Manager, Vice President and President, and CEO positions.

With U.S. Steel Larry held the role of Plant Manager at Keetac and General Manager overseeing the entire Minnesota Ore Operations pelletizing facilities of Minntac and Keetac. After retiring from U.S. Steel, Larry served as Prairie River Minerals CEO before joining Mesabi Metallics Company.

Peter Miller, Chief Green Officer

Peter has 30 years of experience in project management, project development, and permitting. He has managed multiple large projects throughout the U.S. with a focus on development, engineering, and environmental compliance.    

Prior to Mesabi, he was a business owner, C-Suite Executive, and most recently managed the business development a $100M+ portfolio of clients for a Top 5 environmental engineering services firm as the Regional Sales and Growth leader. 

Ben DeNucci, Head of PR & Govt. Affairs

Ben is a fifth generation Iron Range resident, former and youngest Mayor of his hometown of Nashwauk. He served as an Itasca County Commissioner for five years and was elected Board Chairman. Ben has fought to create new jobs in the mining and construction industries at both the City and County government level. 

Ben was a member of a project team that resoundingly passed a referendum to replace the oldest school buildings in the State of Minnesota – schools located in Nashwauk and Keewatin. He worked with local leaders to organize support for the project. His relationships with local legislators led to critical project funding.

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