Metal Design Systems Inc.

Metal Design Systems Inc. Metal Design Systems, Inc. is a national specialty metals fabricator based out of Cedar Rapids, Iowa

is a national specialty metals fabricator based out of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. We provide innovative engineered systems, as well as design and development resources to support your designs and creative concepts. We offer many unique and sustainable claddings to select from, such as ACM, Plate, Colored Stainless, Copper, Zinc, Phenolic Material, Fiber Cement and others. Metal Design Systems is continuo

usly incorporating new methodology into our systems to add innovative features and installation improvements in the field. Our systems perform to the highest industry standards, as well as adding aesthetics to your building. We are environmentally responsible and our facility takes a forward, conscientious approach throughout the manufacturing process. We are guided by our cultural values of servant leadership, integrity, innovation and quality. We are committed to our customer’s success through imaginative products, adaptable services to enhance value, and mechanical solutions for innovative design concepts.

Last week, the MDSI team came together to celebrate a special milestone: Jeff Fiehler’s retirement. Jeff has been a valu...
05/08/2026

Last week, the MDSI team came together to celebrate a special milestone: Jeff Fiehler’s retirement.

Jeff has been a valued part of the MDSI team, and we are thankful for the time, dedication, and hard work he has shared with us. Moments like these remind us how much our team members mean to MDSI, both for the work they do and the relationships they build.

Congratulations, Jeff! You will be missed, and we wish you all the best in retirement!

Today, on World Day for Safety and Health at Work, we’re recognizing the importance of creating a safe and supportive en...
04/28/2026

Today, on World Day for Safety and Health at Work, we’re recognizing the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for every team member.

At MDSI, that commitment is led by our Safety and Security Director, Sam Padgett. Sam plays a key role in helping ensure our teams have the knowledge, resources, and support they need to work safely and confidently each day.

From developing safety practices to reinforcing a culture of accountability and awareness, his work helps protect what matters most, our people.

We’re grateful for the leadership and dedication that goes into keeping safety at the forefront of everything we do.

⭐Team Member Spotlight: Cory Ewing ⭐ This week, we’re highlighting Cory Ewing and the perspective, dedication, and teamw...
04/17/2026

⭐Team Member Spotlight: Cory Ewing ⭐

This week, we’re highlighting Cory Ewing and the perspective, dedication, and teamwork he brings to MDSI.

Cory was inspired to pursue a career in this industry through his interest in large processes and projects, along with all the smaller details that come together to make them successful. At MDSI, one of the things he values most is the strong sense of cohesion and mutual respect built within his team.

One of Cory’s favorite parts of his time at MDSI has been watching the company and building transform from what it was when he first came on board. He has also gained a deeper understanding of how to analyze large, complex sets of plans and specifications and break them down into project scopes and cost estimates.

Outside of work, Cory enjoys weightlifting, spending time outdoors, and playing with his dog. Something his coworkers may be surprised to learn is that he enjoys building 3D puzzles. His personal motto is, “Don’t tell me the sky is the limit when there are footsteps on the moon,” which feels especially fitting given one of his proudest accomplishments: winning a strongman competition just nine months after having his bicep surgically reattached.

Thank you, Cory, for all you bring to the team at MDSI. We’re grateful to have you on our team!

Happy Easter from all of us at MDSIAs we celebrate Easter, we are reminded of the hope, renewal, and promise this season...
04/05/2026

Happy Easter from all of us at MDSI

As we celebrate Easter, we are reminded of the hope, renewal, and promise this season brings. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and blessed day.

⭐️Team Member Spotlight: Adam Bear⭐️This week, we’re excited to highlight Adam Bear, our Assembly Lead!Adam shared that ...
03/27/2026

⭐️Team Member Spotlight: Adam Bear⭐️

This week, we’re excited to highlight Adam Bear, our Assembly Lead!

Adam shared that one of the things he enjoys most about his job is knowing that the work MDSI does is used and enjoyed around the country. Having that kind of connection to the finished product speaks to the pride he brings to his role each day.

When asked about one of his favorite projects, Adam mentioned Humboldt Park, saying it was an interesting building and that seeing the work finally finished was a very cool moment.

Over the past few years at MDSI, Adam feels he has gained leadership skills, continuing to grow through his experience with the team.

Outside of work, Adam enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing the bass guitar, and traveling.

A quote that inspires him is:
“You’re under no obligation to be the person you were 5 minutes ago.”
And if he could instantly learn any new skill, Adam said he would love to learn a new language.

Thank you, Adam, for the work you do as part of our Assembly team. We’re glad to have you at MDSI!

Project Showcase: Southern Research | Birmingham, AlabamaWe’re proud to showcase the Southern Research project in Birmin...
03/19/2026

Project Showcase: Southern Research | Birmingham, Alabama

We’re proud to showcase the Southern Research project in Birmingham, Alabama, a large-scale project that involved extensive coordination, phased delivery, and a whole lot of panels.

For this project, MDSI utilized Alfrex materials in two striking finishes, Bright Silver Metallic and JLR Gray Metallic, helping bring a clean, modern look to the building.

Because of the overall size and phased construction schedule, both shipment and installation of the panels were completed in multiple phases and our scan team traveled to the site on multiple occasions to support the project and help ensure accuracy throughout the process.

A special thank you to our project partners at National Panel Systems (NPS), along with Dann Kerns at Alfrex, for their support and collaboration on this impressive build.

Big project, lots of panels, and a sharp final result, exactly the kind of work we love to be part of.

Department Highlight: Brake/Shear OperatorsBehind every clean edge, crisp bend, and perfectly formed panel is our Brake/...
03/12/2026

Department Highlight: Brake/Shear Operators

Behind every clean edge, crisp bend, and perfectly formed panel is our Brake/Shear team making it happen.

Our Brake/Shear Operators keep production moving by turning shop drawings into accurate panels, flashing, sub-framing, and ACM components—built to spec, built to tolerance, and built on time. Their work takes a sharp eye for detail, strong math and measuring skills, and the ability to visualize how every piece needs to come together before it ever reaches the field.

Jerry Byrne, Zander Yeisley and Randell Heine, thank you for the precision, consistency, and craftsmanship you bring to MDSI every day. We appreciate you!

MaxCare is gearing up for a meaningful spring, and we are excited to share a few upcoming opportunities designed to supp...
03/05/2026

MaxCare is gearing up for a meaningful spring, and we are excited to share a few upcoming opportunities designed to support and encourage our team.

Here’s what’s coming up:
• Iron Sharpens Iron Men’s Conference
• Weekend to Remember Couples Conference
• Iron Sharpens Iron Women’s Conference

At MDSI, MaxCare exists to serve our people well. This team is passionate about making a positive impact on our team members, their families, and the communities we call home. Whether that looks like investing in strong marriages, creating space for encouragement and growth, or supporting individuals through life’s ups and downs, the heart behind MaxCare is simple: show up, care well, and build others up.

We’re grateful for the people who make this possible and for a company culture that prioritizes what matters most.

🏗️ Project Highlight: UAB Science & Engineering Complex 🏗️Big projects require big precision, and this one delivered.Wit...
02/26/2026

🏗️ Project Highlight: UAB Science & Engineering Complex 🏗️

Big projects require big precision, and this one delivered.

With nearly 1,200 panels (many measuring over 4’ x 14’), this project was all about consistency, alignment, and flawless ex*****on across a massive scope. Add in elevations packed with windows and tight architectural requirements, and it meant extra attention to detail — especially for the panels between windows that required special attachment methods to meet the design intent. To stay on schedule, our team completed multiple scans throughout the project, with extra coordination to keep transitions seamless.

🙌 Shoutout to Project Manager Gus Gerken, designers Sam Dwyer + Bryan Tennigkeit, and a huge thank you to our shop team for tackling so many large panels with precision.

⭐️Team Member Spotlight: James Lilly⭐️James Lilly has been a valued part of the Metal Design Systems team for nearly 15 ...
02/19/2026

⭐️Team Member Spotlight: James Lilly⭐️

James Lilly has been a valued part of the Metal Design Systems team for nearly 15 years, and his experience reflects the culture that makes MDSI special.

From the beginning, what stood out most to James was the MDSI team itself and the way coworkers support, respect, and care for one another. That sense of belonging and being valued has stayed with him over the years and is a big reason he still looks forward to coming to work each day. James often describes the team as family, something he takes great pride in being part of.

Throughout his time at MDSI, James has built valuable skills, especially patience, through working on complex, challenging, and fun projects, including one of his favorites, building the archway for Jeep. Outside of work, he enjoys collecting Hot Wheels cars, listening to a wide range of music, and spending time target shooting. Known for being open, genuine, and deeply loyal to the team, James lives by the simple truth that “everybody has problems,” a reminder that empathy and understanding go a long way.

Thank you, James, for the dedication, positivity, and heart you bring to the MDSI family!

Team Highlight: Design TeamBehind every panel, every detail, and every successful install is a whole lot of brainpower a...
02/12/2026

Team Highlight: Design Team

Behind every panel, every detail, and every successful install is a whole lot of brainpower and precision happening long before production ever begins—and that’s where our Design Team shines.

From building detailed 3D models and shop drawings to translating real-world field conditions into clear, buildable plans, this team is the bridge between architectural intent and what we fabricate in the shop. They think through the tough conditions, problem-solve the details, and make sure our projects are set up for success with accurate drawings, material takeoffs, and complete release packets that keep everything moving.

Their work impacts every department and every project. The care and accuracy they bring helps turn complex designs into real-world results and it shows in the quality of what we deliver.

Thank you to our Design Team for the skill, patience, and dedication you bring every day. We truly couldn’t do what we do without you. 👏

Address

103 Chamber Drive
Anamosa, IA
52205

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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