BuildSteel™ is spotlighting Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA) members who are defining excellence in the cold-formed steel (CFS) framing industry. Here are the latest updates showcasing their commitment to disaster relief, investment in future engineers and support for higher education to foster the next generation of innovators and leaders.
Steel Dynamics Supports Future Engineers with $2M Gift
Steel Dynamics Inc., one of the largest steel producers and metals recyclers in the United States and an SFIA member, has committed a $2 million gift through the Steel Dynamics Foundation. The contribution will support Trine University’s new John and Mary Pellegrino Student Design Center.
Steel Dynamics Inc. has committed a $2 million gift to support Trine University’s new John and Mary Pellegrino Student Design Center.
The $15 million, 22,000-square-foot facility will feature state-of-the-art labs for robotics, aeronautics and powertrain systems, along with more than 8,000 square feet of project fabrication space. The investment will enable Trine’s Allen School of Engineering and Computing to expand opportunities for senior design teams, enabling larger, more complex projects and advancing hands-on learning for future engineers.
“This new facility will allow Trine University engineering students to gain hands-on experience with even more sophisticated design projects and will provide opportunities for local high school students and residents to enhance essential skills,” said Mark D. Millett, chairman and chief executive officer of Steel Dynamics Inc.
U.S. Steel Honors Employees Through Student Scholarship Program
United States Steel Corporation, a leading steel producer and an SFIA member, has awarded 20 college scholarships to students nationwide. All recipients are children of U.S. Steel employees, with funding provided by the United States Steel Foundation.
United States Steel Corporation has awarded 20 college scholarships to students nationwide.
For more than 30 years, the U.S. Steel Scholarship Program has supported higher education, awarding over $4.6 million to 550 students who are children of both represented and non-represented employees across the company. Recipients are chosen for their academic excellence, leadership and community involvement, underscoring U.S. Steel’s appreciation for its workforce and their families.
“We are honoring the hard work and dedication of our workforce while fostering the next generation of innovators and leaders,” said Tara Carraro, U.S. Steel senior vice president and chief communications officer. “These students have not only excelled in the classroom but have demonstrated leadership and a commitment to their communities – values we hold dear at U. S. Steel.”
Read the full article from U.S. Steel.
Simpson Strong-Tie Donates for Texas Flood Relief
Simpson Strong-Tie, a leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions and an SFIA member, has donated $30,000 to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund following the destructive floods in Texas on July 4, 2025. Kerr County was one of the hardest-hit areas around the Guadalupe River, where the unprecedented flash flooding tragically claimed over one-hundred lives.
Operated by the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund is supporting relief efforts and long-term rebuilding in impacted communities. The organization is distributing grants to nonprofit organizations, first responder agencies and local governments actively involved in response, relief and recovery.
“We are devastated for the people of Texas, and our thoughts are with all the families who’ve lost loved ones,” said Simpson Strong-Tie president and CEO Mike Olosky.
Along with the initial donation, Simpson Strong-Tie is matching employee donations up to $5,000 per year. To donate, visit communityfoundation.net
Read the full article from Simpson Strong-Tie.
Additional Resources
- Update #3 | Defining Excellence with Simpson Strong-Tie, CFSEI Honoree Vince Salvador and ClarkDietrich
- Update #2 | Defining Excellence with T.J Wies Contracting, U.S. Steel and Cleveland-Cliffs
- Update #1 | Defining Excellence with Simpson Strong-Tie, U.S. Steel and Steel Dynamics