DENHAM SPRINGS, La. - When Kylie Sparks launched Pipe and Steel Industrial in 1997, he never imagined it would one day be a $100 million-per-year operation.
But today, that’s exactly where the Livingston Parish-based company is headed.
On Wednesday, Sparks invited more than 100 guests, including business leaders, elected officials, and U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, to celebrate Pipe and Steel’s continued growth. The company recently completed a 20,000-square-foot expansion, purchased an additional five acres adjacent to its Arnold Road facility, and is anticipating a second major expansion announcement next month.
“We’ve created 15 to 30 new full-time jobs and will generate $30,000 to $50,000 per month in tax revenue for Livingston Parish,” Sparks told the crowd. “That’s money to repair roads and offer better pay for our people.”
The expansion also included the purchase of one of the few steel profilers in the country, Sparks said.
He emphasized that Pipe and Steel’s growth benefits more than just his company — it’s a “shining business model” that keeps jobs and tax dollars in the parish.
“We’re not for sale,” Sparks added. “We’re loyal to our employees, and they are loyal to us. One thing that’s important to remember is that you don’t make it on your own. It takes the efforts of everyone involved.”
Parish President Randy Delatte echoed that sentiment, calling Pipe and Steel an example of the kind of industry Livingston Parish hopes to attract.
“We’re using his business model to bring more business to Livingston Parish,” Delatte said.
While Wednesday’s event was celebratory, Sparks also offered a note of caution, warning that artificial intelligence could replace many white-collar jobs in the near future.
“It’s important that we offer our kids the opportunity to attend trade schools,” he said. “The future is going to see a need for more skilled craftsmen.”
Cassidy, who made three public appearances in the parish that day, gave brief remarks praising teamwork, community, and infrastructure investment. He also referenced the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which he jokingly referred to as the “Big, Beautiful Bill” and said it will bring long-term benefits to Louisiana.
“Roads and bridges will be built by our people as a result of that bill,” he said.
Cassidy also credited former President Donald Trump for advancing policies aimed at reshoring American jobs.
“We’re brothers from a different mother,” Cassidy said. “His programs are going to bring jobs home from China.”
