Traditionally, carbon steel has been the support structure for water storage tanks. But it has several disadvantages when used as a water storage tank support structure. Steel support structures require regular maintenance, such as repainting, to deter rust. In addition, mid-air maintenance increases maintenance costs and poses a safety hazard. There is now an alternative to carbon steel. Chairman of the Board and Chief Technical Officer Benjamin Johnston of Pittsburg Tank & Tower Group (PTTG) and Jerry Smith, P.E., former development engineer for special projects at PTTG, developed a revolutionary system-Mini Composite Elevated Tank-using precast concrete segments. PTTG, located in Henderson, KY, received its patent for the new product in December 2025.