The Australian Steel Convention 2023 recently concluded, leaving attendees with a wealth of knowledge and insights into the steel industry. This annual event served as a platform for industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to come together and discuss the pressing challenges and exciting opportunities that lie ahead in the world of steel. From global industry challenges to sustainability trends, the convention covered a wide range of topics that are shaping the future of steel.
Global Steel Industry Challenges
- National and global skills shortage in steel industry
- Rising difficulty in retaining staff in the industry
The Polycrisis by Dr. Alan Dupont
- Cluster of global risks compounding for significant impact
- Examples: Ukraine Crisis, US-China tensions, deglobalization
- Geopolitical tensions reshaping trade and alliances
- Focus on national security premium and sovereign capability
Economic Insights by Australian Super
- Expectation of higher interest rates
- Increased defense spending and on-shoring
Customer Perspectives in Construction
- Green building standards for Olympic Games infrastructure
- Need for real-time QA data in steel supply chains
- Emphasis on data following the product
Sustainability and Environmental Trends
- Scrap steel pricing holding up due to environmental benefits
- Focus on traceability and electronic formats
Inspirational Insights
- Stories of resilience, leadership, and adaptability
- The power of innovation, agility, and teamwork
Stakeholder Value Chain
- Importance of people in creating value
- CEO focus on talent, engagement, and retention
- Enhancing employee engagement for better outcomes
Emerging Youth in Engineering
- Aligning education with career expectations
- Realistic portrayal of apprenticeships
- Incorporating students into the industry
Fabricator Forum
- Discussions on steelwork quality and compliance
- Collaboration with industry stakeholders
- Sustainability initiatives and awards
The Aust Steel Convention 2023 offered valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in the steel industry, emphasizing the importance of people, sustainability, and adaptability in an ever-changing global landscape.
