Northern States Metals, a Youngstown, Ohio-based manufacturer of aluminum extrusions, has announced the appointment of Tom Meola to the position of President and CEO. Northern States Metals is also the creator and manufacturer of the Solar FlexRack, the most innovative photovoltaic rack mounting solution on the market today.

Northern States Metals was founded in 1974 by Paul Cusson, who will move from his present position as President and CEO to Chairman of the Board. From the start, Cusson fostered a culture built on teamwork and commitment, and in more recent years has transitioned the business from servicing traditional industrial markets to the emerging renewable energy market.     

“The commitment to innovation, hard work and entrepreneurial spirit resonates profoundly at Northern States Metals,” says Meola. “Paul and his team have done an excellent job in positioning the company as a leading supplier of solar energy ‘balance of systems’ components.”

Meola says he is assuming his duties as president “with an eye on the future. My goal is to leverage what Paul and Team have developed and build a sustaining growth organization that will provide opportunities for our employees and the community."

Cusson says “We are most happy to have found and recruited Tom. He is intelligent, thoughtful, personable and a very hard worker. He has already made great contributions during his short tenure here at Northern States.”

Tom Meola earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and an MBA from Youngstown State University. His extensive experience in finance and operations includes serving as President and Chief Operating Officer for Premix, Inc. and Quantum Composites, a leading developer and manufacturer of thermoset composite materials and custom molded parts. 

He has served on the Board of Directors of the American Composites Manufacturing Association and the Advisory Board of Directors for Factory Mutual Insurance Company. Meola is also a board member for the Ashtabula County Civic Development Corporation.


"The commitment to innovation, hard work and entrepreneurial spirit resonates profoundly at Northern States Metals." – Tom Meola, President/CEO