“While we may be disheartened by the decision, the rationale for canceling the event is sound in light of the pervasive COVID-19 pandemic and the many unique in-person programs that define AISTech. As an industry, Safety First shall always prevail,” AIST president Ronald O’Malley and AIST executive director Ronald Ashburn said in a statement. 

“We want to thank our many attendees, presenters, exhibiting companies and sponsors for their unwavering commitment to AIST through this unprecedented situation. Your encouragement and support of AIST and the steel industry is genuinely appreciated,” they added. 

AISTech is AIST’s marquee event and one of the global steel industry’s largest annual conferences and exhibitions. It is also a networking catalyst whereby many companies generate the business that drives the steel economy, the association said. 

Despite the setback, O’Malley and Ashburn said planning is underway for the 2021 installment of AISTech, which is scheduled to take place 3–6 May 2021 in Nashville, Tenn., USA. They also said the association has begun offering virtual programming to ensure it continues to fulfill its mission. 

“AIST remains committed to providing our global steel community with valuable networking and educational experiences, whether in-person, virtually or a hybrid combination of both. The opportunities for steel to succeed are endless, and we look forward to the industry’s continued participation,” O’Malley and Ashburn said.

All AISTech 2020 participants are eligible for a full refund or may transfer payments to AISTech 2021. More information about the decision and plans for AISTech 2021 can be found here.