The end of a challenging year for the steel industry is already upon us. Thankfully, there appears to be more optimism in the air as we start 2017. Inside the Union Electric Åkers organization, we continue to work hard on our integration. Our primary focus is to provide you with the very best service; both in technical expertise and in the supply of quality products, on time, and according to your requirements.
I have come to realize that the management structures and operations of the past no longer support the competitive nature of the steel industry of today. I firmly believe that to be successful, the future of our leadership must consist of those who see themselves as players on a team. Leadership is now about enabling players to perform and execute and flourish. It might sound a bit philosophical, but this is the type of leadership we endorse within the Union Electric Åkers Team. Our success will depend on how quickly we can transform into a company of highly engaged and motivated employees at all levels.
I would like to take the opportunity to briefly inform you about our very recent acquisition of ASW Steel Inc., a specialty steel maker in Ontario, Canada. This acquisition is a very exciting development for Union Electric Steel as it provides us with additional capabilities in markets related to our Forged Engineered Products (FEP) markets, as well as supporting the Union Electric Åkers forged rolls product segment. We expect to see great things from our partnership with ASW in the years ahead.
In conclusion, I would like to thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!
As Union Electric Åkers strives to excel in the roll industry, we are truly honored to have customers like you.
I wish you all a joyous and peaceful holiday season and all the best in the New Year.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Let’s Roll into 2017!
Rodney Scagline
President, Union Electric Steel Corporation