US Steel CEO shares company's achievements
According to US Steel CEO John P. Surma, the last few years have been very kind to the Pittsburgh-based steel giant. At the Metals Service Center Institute's 2006 Carbon Conference last week, Mr. Surma spoke to an avid audience of over 300 people, about US Steel Corp's accomplishments over the past several years. According to Mr. Surma, since 2004, the company has achieved improved investor appeal; continued strong returns; improved structure; and a flatter global cost curve. He said that the company's iron ore integration has also provided an advantage over competitors in the strong and growing global industry. As far as production is concerned, Mr. Surma noted that the Gary Works No. 14 blast furnace (previously known as the No. 13 blast furnace) is already producing 6'000 to 7'000 net tons per day, and will produce 13'000 net tons once the furnace is at full capacity. He mentioned that the company has a new high-tech galvanizing line in Slovakia, which should be running by next year. Lastly, he stressed to the audience that since the majority of US steel workers are nearing retirement, the training of a sharper, smarter workforce is necessary for the company and the industry in general to move forward and continue to prosper.