United States Steel Corp. announced the appointment of George F. Babcoke to Managing Director of Engineering and Research, effective September 1.

In his new position, Babcoke will be responsible for the engineering functions previously held by Bernard J. Fedak, who recently announced his retirement. In addition to Fedak’s former engineering responsibilities, Babcoke will also be responsible for oversight of U. S. Steel's global research efforts. He will transfer to Pittsburgh headquarters from Gary Works, where he has served as General Manager since 2001.

"Through his extensive experience in operations maintenance and in finishing and primary steelmaking processes, George possesses a thorough understanding of all facets of steelmaking operations," said John P. Surma, President and Chief Operating Officer. "We are pleased to have him lead our company-wide engineering and research initiatives."

Babcoke began his career at U. S. Steel in 1976 as a laborer at Gary Works' general services department. He advanced into management in 1981, and progressed through several supervisory appointments in maintenance, finishing operations, and operations services before he was named Plant Manager of Finishing Operation in 1995.

In 1997, he was promoted to Vice President of Operations at USS/Kobe Steel Co., a former joint venture of U. S. Steel and Kobe Steel of Japan, and in 1999, he assumed the title of President. After the operations of USS/Kobe were combined with two other companies to form Republic Technologies International, he was named Executive Vice President and General Manager of Hot Rolled Bar Operations. In January 2001, he returned to U. S. Steel as General Manager of Gary Works.

Babcoke holds a bachelor's degree in organizational management from Calumet College, and a master's degree in management from National Louis University.