August 18, 2010

Canadian Institute of Steel Construction launches Steel Day to build profile

PATRICIA WILLIAMS

staff writer

Inspired by the success of a program launched last year in the U.S., the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction (CISC) is sponsoring a cross-country networking and educational event called SteelDay.

To be held Sept. 24, the event is intended to foster awareness of the benefits of using steel in construction and the work that the institute’s members perform. CISC represents fabricators, detailers and suppliers of structural steel, open-web steel joists and platework.

Steel fabricators, mills, service centres and others will open their facilities, job sites and offices for tours and demonstrations. Architects, engineers, contractors, developers and students will be invited to attend.

The institute has set up a special website, www.SteelDay.ca, to register for events.

Jason Wood, the CISC’s marketing director, said the institute saw the success of SteelDay 2009 in the U.S. “and knew it was something we wanted to be part of.

“This is a fantastic program, allowing our membership to demonstrate the strengths and capabilities they bring to the construction industry,” he said. “Many stakeholders have never visited a facility before.”

To date, Wood said, close to 50 CISC member firms have agreed to host events.

The plate and processing division of Russel Metals Inc., for one, is planning an information session, tour and lunch-time barbeque. The company is one of the largest metals distribution and processing companies in North America.

In the Greater Toronto Area, two community colleges have signed up to take students on tours of fabrication facilities.

Last year, more than 7,000 people participated in events at 170 different locations in the U.S., held under the umbrella of the American Institute of Steel Construction. This year’s SteelDay is expected to attract more than 10,000 participants at some 200 events.

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