The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) and its member companies express their support and concern for employees and their families as well as their suppliers and customer base throughout the Gulf Coast region that have been impacted by Hurricane Katrina.

“AISI and its member companies are concerned for the well-being of their employees, their families and the extended steel communities in the areas that have been affected by Hurricane Katrina,” AISI President and CEO Andrew G. Sharkey III said.

The steel industry is networking behind the scenes to assist in an expedited manner as experts examine the unprecedented repair and rebuilding effort ahead for the Gulf region. Many mills are ready and willing to make an extra effort to supply the impacted region as they recognize that displaced people need to get back to work and get their lives re-established. In addition, a number of AISI member companies are involved in matching donation programs to the American Red Cross and other designated organizations providing charitable relief.

AISI serves as the voice of the North American steel industry in the public policy arena and advances the case for steel in the marketplace as the preferred material of choice. AISI also plays a lead role in the development and application of new steels and steelmaking technology.