The State of American Steel: Safety, Technology, and What's Next

In this episode of The Pragmatic Safety Podcast by TenForce, host Julia Dubois speaks with Gregg Walker, the Senior Director of Communications at Steel Manufacturers Association, about the future of the American steel industry, innovation, sustainability, and safety. Gregg explains how electric arc furnace technology has transformed steel production by increasing recycling and lowering emissions. He also discusses the Global Steel Climate Council, the SMA Plan for American Power, workforce challenges, and the growing role of AI in modern steelmaking. Gregg shares how the industry is improving safety, supporting local communities, and attracting the next generation of talent while helping build a stronger and more sustainable future. With nearly 30 years of nonprofit communications experience, Gregg Walker shares how the Steel Manufacturers Association is helping shape the future of the American steel industry. He explains how electric arc furnace technology has increased recycling, lowered emissions, and improved steel production. Gregg also discusses the Global Steel Climate Council, the SMA Plan for American Power, workforce challenges, and the growing use of AI in steelmaking. He highlights the industry's focus on safety, community support, and innovation while helping build a stronger and more sustainable future. In this episode, expect to learn: -How electric arc furnace technology has helped make American steel production more efficient through recycling and lower emissions -Why safety, innovation, and strong community support are central to the culture of the American steel industry -How the Global Steel Climate Council and the SMA Plan for American Power are helping address emissions and future energy needs -The challenges of recruiting and keeping skilled workers while changing public views of careers in steelmaking -How AI and new technology are improving safety, operations, and efficiency while supporting the future of steel production 📢Discover how TenForce helps industrial teams improve safety, compliance, and operational performance. Visit: https://www.tenforce.com/ 📢 To explore more episodes and practical resources Visit: https://www.tenforce.com/podcast 📩Want to learn more about the work of the Steel Manufacturers Association? Send Gregg Walker your questions. Email him at: [email protected] Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser [01:15] - Introduction of Podcast and Guest Gregg Walker [02:44] - Innovation, Recycling, and Electric Arc Furnace Steelmaking [07:22] - Green Steel and the Global Steel Climate Council [11:48] - The SMA Plan for American Power [14:46] - Building a Strong Safety Culture in Steelmaking [20:20] - Community Support and the Rock Solid Foundation Partnership [24:50] - Changing Perceptions of the Steel Industry [28:50] - Trade, Investment, and the Future of American Steel [34:53] - Workforce Challenges and Attracting New Talent [39:50] - AI, Technology, and the Future of Steelmaking [46:00] - Where to Learn More About the Steel Manufacturers Association "Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review." Follow our Guest Gregg Walker on: -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregg-walker-86789821/ -Steel Manufacturers Association (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/steel-manufacturers-association/ -Steel Manufacturers Association (Website): https://steelnet.org/ Follow Host Julia Dubois on: -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-dubois-ahimsa/ Follow the Podcast: -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tenforce/ -Visit the Website: https://www.tenforce.com/ -Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TenForceEHSQ -Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/do/podcast/the-pragmatic-safety-podcast/id6793006276 -Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033Ta0S3lA8IWFXIcj68sA?si=2aa99d9a94d94367