AISI Welcomes Ryerson, Zekelman Industries, and Olympic Steel as New Members
The American Iron and Steel Institute, a leading trade association representing the steel industry in the United States, has expanded its membership with the addition of three prominent steel companies: Ryerson, Zekelman Industries, and Olympic Steel. All three companies are key players in the steel sector, with Ryerson and Zekelman Industries based in Chicago, Illinois, and Olympic Steel headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio.
This strategic expansion of AISI’s membership is seen as a significant move to strengthen the organization’s advocacy efforts and further bolster its influence in shaping policies critical to the success of the U.S. steel industry.
Strengthening the Voice of U.S. Steel
Lourenco Goncalves, Chairman of AISI’s Board and Chairman, President, and CEO of Cleveland-Cliffs, expressed his enthusiasm about the new additions to the association. He emphasized the important role these companies have played as allies in promoting policy issues related to the steel industry. “We look forward to working closely with Ryerson, Zekelman, and Olympic Steel to further amplify the voice of our industry in combating unfair foreign practices and other areas that present ongoing threats to the competitiveness of the American steel industry,” Goncalves stated.
By joining AISI, Ryerson, Zekelman, and Olympic Steel will help to enhance the collective efforts of the association in advocating for fair trade practices, addressing challenges posed by global steel overcapacity, and protecting the interests of domestic steel manufacturers. Their combined efforts will enable AISI to intensify its lobbying and policy influence, especially in combating unfair foreign practices that undermine the U.S. steel sector’s competitiveness.
Enhanced Advocacy and Industry Representation
Kevin Dempsey, President and CEO of AISI, also welcomed the new members and noted the importance of their involvement in the organization’s broader advocacy strategy. “The collaboration with these three companies will enhance AISI’s already significant engagement with members of Congress and the administration,” said Dempsey. He added that the industry’s voice will become even stronger, and their collective influence will help shape policies that support the domestic steel sector.
The addition of these companies aligns with AISI's continued efforts to promote policies that ensure a level playing field for American steel manufacturers. The organization’s advocacy focuses on combating practices such as unfair subsidies, currency manipulation, and other trade-distorting practices that threaten the stability and growth of the U.S. steel industry. Furthermore, AISI works to ensure that U.S. steel manufacturers remain competitive in the global marketplace, safeguarding jobs and promoting economic growth within the sector.
The Role of New Members in U.S. Steel Policy
As leading steel suppliers in the U.S., Ryerson, Zekelman Industries, and Olympic Steel bring significant experience and expertise to the table. Ryerson is a major distributor and processor of steel, offering products to a wide range of industries. Zekelman Industries is one of the largest manufacturers of tubular products, while Olympic Steel is a key player in the distribution of carbon, stainless, and aluminum sheet and plate products.
By joining AISI, these companies not only gain access to a powerful advocacy network but also help shape the future of steel policy in the U.S. Their involvement will be crucial in tackling global steel challenges and in ensuring that American steel remains a competitive force on the global stage. With their experience and leadership, these companies will play an integral role in pushing for fair trade agreements, addressing international trade imbalances, and advancing innovation within the steel industry.
AISI’s Growing Influence
The addition of Ryerson, Zekelman Industries, and Olympic Steel brings AISI's membership to an even broader base of influential industry players. The association’s efforts have been instrumental in advocating for stronger trade protections and ensuring the sustainability of the American steel industry. The expanded membership will only bolster AISI’s capabilities in representing the steel sector at the national and international levels, working alongside policymakers and industry leaders to promote and protect the interests of U.S. steel manufacturers.
As the steel industry faces ongoing challenges, including global overcapacity and unfair trade practices, the support of these new members will further strengthen AISI’s role in shaping policy decisions that directly impact the U.S. economy and workforce. The collaboration between AISI and its expanded membership marks an important step in fortifying the competitiveness of the American steel industry for years to come.
