Get to Know Vanessa & Samantha

Yes - before you ask - we’re sisters!

We grew up immersed in a family-run manufacturing business, S&L WasteTech, owned and operated by our parents. From an early age, we were surrounded by welding sparks, problem-solving, and hands-on work — and we loved it. That passion led us both to pursue the Mechanical Engineering Technology program at Algonquin College, with the goal of helping grow the family business and carving out our own path along the way.

For those wondering, there are two years between us - Vanessa being the older, yet shorter one!

While in school, we worked part-time at S&L WasteTech, putting our skills into action by creating 3D drawings, designing containers, preparing work orders, operating the plasma table, and learning the ins and outs of running a manufacturing business. Before long, we began designing and cutting custom, detailed metalwork and fire pits for friends and family — and that’s when V&S Custom Metalwork was born (originally known as V&S Designs).

After completing our programs in 2017 and 2019, we stepped into full-time roles as mechanical designers at S&L WasteTech. At the same time, V&S Custom Metalwork continued to grow. Today, these two businesses work hand-in-hand every day, allowing us to combine creativity, engineering, and craftsmanship. Whether customers connect with us through V&S Custom Metalwork or S&L WasteTech, our goal is always the same: to build strong relationships and deliver quality work we’re proud of.

Over the years, V&S Custom Metalwork has grown beyond what we ever imagined — and we couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of our family, friends, and loyal customers who continue to return, share feedback, and recommend us to others.

From our family to yours — thank you for being part of our journey.