American Steel is Essential

Steel is among the most widely used and versatile materials in the modern world. Steel is a strategic asset and essential to American life. It is the backbone of American manufacturing, infrastructure, national security and energy, and creates good jobs and strong communities. Powering progress and protecting America — that is American steel.

Economic Engine

High-skill, high-wage jobs, employee training/advancement and stable tax bases for local governments

National Defense

Ships, aircraft, armored vehicles, weapons systems and critical military infrastructure

Infrastructure

Bridges, highways, rail, ports, water systems, airports, public buildings and sports stadiums/arenas

Manufacturing

Cars and trucks, appliances, machinery, tools and advanced equipment

Electrification and Energy

Pipelines, transmission towers, wind turbines, solar structures, carbon capture, nuclear facilities and the electric grid

Everyday Life

Homes, hospitals, schools, firetrucks, ambulances, packaging and consumer goods

Why the American Steel Industry Remains Vital

Steel Drives Economic Growth for the Nation

The American steel industry is a cornerstone of the U.S. economy and a powerful multiplier for growth across manufacturing, construction, transportation and energy. American steel is a modern economic driver that underpins advanced manufacturing, infrastructure investment and long-term national competitiveness.

Job Creation and Workforce Opportunity

The steel industry creates good jobs, builds strong communities and supports long-term careers. Modernization in the steel industry has strengthened job quality while sustaining long term employment. Steelmaking today is a high-tech industry, more efficient than in the past, and the jobs it supports are safer, more skilled and more economically impactful than ever before.

Critical to National Security

Steel is more than a commodity – it is a strategic asset and a cornerstone of the U.S. defense industrial base. A strong, technologically diverse domestic steel industry is essential in military readiness, weapons systems, defense production capacity, secure infrastructure, energy systems, critical systems, critical supply chains, emergency response, disaster recovery and national resilience during crises.

World-Leading Energy Efficient and Low Emissions Production

American steelmakers operate some of the world’s cleanest and most energy-efficient steel facilities. The United States has the lowest carbon intensity of any major steel-producing nation, emitting far less CO₂ per ton produced than China, India and most global competitors. A Department of Energy analysis indicates that the production of iron, steel and metallurgical coke in the United States amounts to less than one percent of national CO₂ emissions, compared to the global scale of total CO₂ emissions from steel which is approximately 7-8 percent.

Advanced Manufacturing

Leadership American steel is made with world-class technologies and is one of the most advanced manufacturing sectors in the world. Modern steel facilities and distribution centers operate with cutting edge innovation. Precision production and quality control ensure American steel meets the highest standards.

Building America’s Future Together

American steel built our nation and fortifies our future. With fair trade, common-sense regulations and pro-investment policies, American steelmakers will continue to lead the world in innovation, sustainability and quality.

Learn More About the American Steel Industry