Dennis Sehnal

Early Beginnings in the Industry

Growing up surrounded by the structural steel industry in Arizona and California, I was captivated by the process of framing steel buildings. This passion led me to teach myself welding, fabrication, and truck loading at a young age. By the time I was old enough to drive, I was already delivering steel and gaining firsthand experience in how steel is fabricated and installed.

After graduating high school, I moved to San Diego to work on one of the largest general mail facilities in the country. Despite not knowing how to read erection drawings at the time, I quickly learned on the job. This experience taught me the importance of teamwork in the field and gave me the tools to understand how projects are successfully and safely executed. It was a pivotal moment that fueled my desire to learn more about the industry.

Growth and Development in Arizona

After completing the San Diego project, I returned to Arizona, eager to continue learning. I worked in the shop while taking every opportunity to gain field experience. This dedication led to my promotion to shop foreman, where I focused on improving processes and creating efficiencies. My mindset has always been that there is a better, safer, and more successful way to approach every task.

While working as a shop foreman during the day, I attended business classes at night, determined to expand my knowledge. This dual commitment to work and education laid the foundation for my future roles in the industry.

Transition to Estimating and Project Management

An unexpected opportunity in estimating came my way, despite my lack of experience with design drawings. I embraced the challenge, leveraging my shop and field experience to learn the intricacies of pricing mechanisms and proposal writing. I quickly realized that detailed and transparent proposals were key to building trust with contractors. This approach made me a trusted partner to clients and eventually led to managing the projects I had estimated.

The transition from estimating to project management allowed me to develop a comprehensive understanding of the entire project lifecycle. By combining clear communication, project knowledge, and hands-on experience, I was able to successfully manage operations and deliver results.

Founding Encore Steel

In 2003, after years of managing various aspects of the structural steel industry, I faced a challenge I couldn’t overcome while working for others: the inability to ensure my commitments were fulfilled due to factors beyond my control. Determined to uphold my values, I sold all my assets and founded Encore Steel in November 2003.

Starting a company from scratch was daunting, but the trust and support of contractors who believed in my vision fueled Encore Steel’s early success. By staying true to my word and delivering on promises, Encore Steel grew from a single employee to over 100, even weathering the challenges of the 2008 recession. Today, Encore Steel operates in multiple states, continuing to build on the foundation of trust and excellence.

The Birth of S&S Structures

In 2024, Joseph Santini and I co-founded S&S Structures, a company focused on hybrid roof construction. Drawing on the success of Encore Steel, we identified gaps in the hybrid roof industry, particularly in safety standards and project execution. Our mission was clear: to build a company that prioritizes safety and service above all else.

Safety First

Our first initiative was to create a comprehensive safety manual that set higher standards for the industry. By promoting safer installation practices, we aim to not only protect our team but also inspire others in the industry to follow suit.

Beyond Sales: A Commitment to Completion

We also recognized that many companies focus solely on selling projects without ensuring their successful completion. At S&S Structures, we are committed to being involved from estimating to project completion, providing unparalleled service and dedication every step of the way.

A Partnership Built on Excellence

S&S Structures is not about being the largest company; it’s about being the best. We refuse to compromise on safety, service, or quality. Our partnership with Encore Steel offers contractors, developers, and project owners the opportunity to work with two industry-leading companies that share the same values. Together, we deliver projects without compromise, ensuring success for our clients and their visions.

This is our promise to you: safety, service, and success—always.