From Crafting Windows to Delivering Specialty Steel
Meet Harald Heyeraas, one of the latest additions to the Arctic Steel team, who has now been with us for a year! As a Sales & Project Manager, he’s here to help customers navigate the world of specialty steel – with a personal touch. With a background that spans both hands-on craftsmanship and strategic sales, Harald brings a fresh perspective to the team.
From wooden frames to steel beams
Before joining Arctic Steel, Harald spent an impressive 16.5 years at Gilje Tre, a leading window and door manufacturer. He started on the shop floor at just 14 years old, working his way up through different roles before settling into sales. With a trade certificate in woodworking and building interiors, he knows the value of precision and quality – skills that translate surprisingly well into the steel industry.
A Sales & Project Manager with a personal approach
Harald’s role at Arctic Steel isn’t just about numbers and logistics – it’s about people. One of his goals is to understand customer needs and offer a tailored solution that makes their job easier.
– What I really appreciate here is that we follow the customer all the way from the first inquiry to final documentation. It’s a much more personal process, he explains.
Unlike larger companies, Arctic Steel likes to keep their service personalized by designating project managers to dedicated projects from start to finish.
– I think that personal touch adds real value. Customers know exactly who to call, and they don’t get lost in a system, Harald says.
The customer portal – a game changer
One of the features Harald is most excited about is Arctic Steel’s customer portal.
– It’s fantastic! Customers can log in, browse our inventory, and even find rare materials we have in stock. They can send an inquiry, and in many cases, we can have the order ready for pickup or shipping the same day, he explains.
The portal gives customers the flexibility to search for what they need at their own convenience. And with their new facilities under construction a new solution for a 24/7 material pick up may be in place later this year.
Finding his footing (and his football rivalries)
Though he’s been with Arctic Steel for just a year, Harald already feels at home – and not just because his colleagues invited him to a hockey game before his first day! The company culture is welcoming, and the strong team spirit makes every day enjoyable.
– I was even invited to the Christmas dinner before I officially started. That says a lot about how inclusive this place is.
When he’s not at work, Harald keeps busy with family life. His seven-year-old son has already been introduced to football culture, and Harald takes him to Bryne matches to support the local team. But make no mistake – Harald’s heart beats for Rosenborg and Liverpool.
– I support the only Norwegian club with two stars over their logo, he says proudly.
Football discussions in the office are lively, especially with Henning and Jonas supporting Manchester United.
A new challenge every day
With so many new materials, specifications, and industry nuances to learn, Harald admits that the transition into the steel industry has been a steep learning curve – but that’s exactly what makes it exciting.
– At my old job, I knew everything. Here, I’m constantly learning something new, and I love it!
Luckily, he has seasoned colleagues to lean on.
– We have some real experts here, and they’ve been incredibly helpful. It’s a great environment to learn and grow.
A man of wood who’s found a love for steel
And speaking of steel – does Harald have a favorite grade yet?
– As someone who spent years working with wood, I find it fascinating how dense and heavy some steel types are. The weight-to-size ratio is mind-blowing.
His current pick? Inconel – a high-performance alloy that commands an equally high price.
– Coming from the world of timber, seeing some of these price tags has been an eye-opener, he laughs.
With a blend of technical expertise, sales know-how, and a down-to-earth personality, Harald is already proving to be a great addition to Arctic Steel. And whether he’s helping customers find the right steel or discussing football rivalries in the office, one thing’s for sure – he’s here to make an impact.