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Meet our team

Meet the team behind Ames Copper Group—a group of dedicated professionals with deep expertise in metals, manufacturing, and sustainability. Our leadership and staff bring years of experience and a shared commitment to building a stronger, more efficient copper supply chain. From plant operations to customer support, every team member plays a vital role in delivering high-quality recycled copper and dependable service to our partners across North America.

President

Dayne Willis

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With a B.S. in Engineering Technology from Western Carolina University and executive training from UNC Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School, our President brings a strong technical and leadership background to Ames Copper Group. He’s passionate about developing the next generation of industry leaders and values the freedom and innovation that come with working in a privately held company. Through his time in copper manufacturing, he’s come to appreciate copper’s unique ability to be recycled endlessly. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling with his family and perfecting his skills as a backyard BBQ pitmaster.

Operations Manager

Brandon Keneda

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With a B.S. in Metallurgical Engineering from The University of Alabama, our Operations Manager brings deep technical expertise to the copper manufacturing process. From an early age, he was drawn to science—often dressing up as a "mad scientist" for elementary school career days—and today, that curiosity fuels his passion for leading teams and improving technical operations on the shop floor. He’s learned that copper requires a very different approach than metals like steel or aluminum, and he values the hands-on, research-driven culture at Ames and IMC. Outside of work, he enjoys woodworking, ATV trail riding, hiking, and biking.

HR Lead

Joe Woloszyk

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Joe Woloszyk brings nearly 15 years of experience as a career coach, human resource strategist, and talent procurement consultant. In addition to his HR consulting experience, Joe previously worked in human resources within the data cable industry for over a decade, gaining valuable insights into the manufacturing sector.

 

As the Director of Human Resources for AMES and IMC, Joe is responsible for identifying talent and creating a collaborative and supportive culture that encourages growth opportunities.

 

Joe holds a Master of Science degree in strategic leadership from Mountain State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in business from DeVry University. He also has several HR related certifications, including the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certificate through SHRM.

Campus EHS Manager

Kristen Yost

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Kristen brings a strong educational background and a wealth of safety expertise to Ames Copper Group, holding a B.S. from Purdue University, an M.S. from the University of Michigan, and multiple certifications including Certified Machinery Safety Expert, Certified Safety Professional, and Certified Industrial Hygienist. She’s passionate about making work safer and more ergonomic for employees and enjoys the challenge of applying EHS principles to a unique material like copper. Kristen values the supportive team culture at Ames and IMC, where great people make a big difference. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with animals and riding motorcycles.

Shelby IT & Transporation Leader

Lynn Frye

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Lynn holds an MBA from Clemson University, a B.A. in Business Administration from Lenoir-Rhyne University, and is a Certified Supply Chain Professional through APICS. At Ames Copper Group, he’s learned just how valuable and sustainable copper truly is, appreciating its ability to be recycled with minimal loss in quality. He’s especially proud to be part of the team behind one of the first major U.S. copper smelting investments in decades. Lynn enjoys the fast pace, shared purpose, and forward-thinking culture at Ames and IMC. Outside of work, he spends time vacationing with his family, exploring national parks, running, and playing guitar at his church. He also enjoys customizing electric guitars and pedals—combining creativity and precision to shape sound.

Campus Controller

Tiffany Buff

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Tiffany is a Certified Public Accountant with a Master of Business Administration and dual bachelor's degrees in Accounting and Economics. As Campus Controller, she plays a key role in managing financial operations and supporting the company’s strategic goals. What she enjoys most about working at Ames and IMC is the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most talented professionals in the industry. Her advice to anyone entering the field is to find strong mentors who are passionate about their work. Outside of the office, Tiffany enjoys camping with her husband and two young daughters, exploring at least three new destinations each year.

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ABOUT US

Learn who we are, what drives us, and how we’re redefining copper production in the U.S.

Who We Are

Ames Copper Group is shaping the future of copper through smarter, more sustainable production. Based in Shelby, North Carolina, we operate the most advanced secondary copper manufacturing facility in the United States, producing high-quality copper from recycled materials.

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Our Mission

Our mission is to transform the copper supply chain through sustainable innovation and U.S.-based production. We deliver high-quality recycled copper to support essential industries like energy, construction, and infrastructure, helping manufacturers meet growing demand without compromising on reliability or environmental responsibility.

By recovering and refining scrap copper domestically, we reduce reliance on foreign sources and lower the environmental impact of traditional mining and shipping. Our goal is to provide a smarter, cleaner path forward—one that strengthens American manufacturing while aligning with the values of our partners and the needs of the future.

Why It Matters

At Ames Copper Group, we recognize the importance of meeting this demand with a supply that is both dependable and responsibly produced. By operating entirely in the United States, we provide a strong alternative to overseas copper sources, helping manufacturers reduce supply chain risks, shorten delivery timelines, and support domestic industry. Our recycled copper solutions offer the performance companies need with the sustainability they value.

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