In a statement, Topalian said he is honored to be named to the two-year position.  

"It is an exciting time for our industry with member companies making significant investments to grow and modernize facilities. I look forward to working with members to engage policymakers on several issues important to our industry, including infrastructure spending, trade enforcement, and making steel the sustainable engineering and construction material of choice now and in the future,” he said.

“We are a stronger industry when we work together with one voice."

AISI elected its officers during a recent board meeting. John Brett, chief executive of ArcelorMittal North America, and Chuck Schmitt, president of SSAB Americas, were elected vice chairmen.