Short Span Steel Bridges 
FHWA Administrator Sean McMaster Addresses Steel Industry at AISI General Meeting
May 15, 2026
The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) was proud to welcome Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Administrator Sean McMaster as a featured speaker during AISI’s General Meeting on Tuesday, May 12. Administrator McMaster addressed steel industry leaders on the critical role domestic steel manufacturing plays in supporting the nation’s infrastructure, economy and long-term resilience.
Domestic Steel and Economic Strength
During his remarks, Administrator McMaster emphasized the importance of a strong domestic steel industry in maintaining and modernizing America’s transportation network. With the vast majority of travel and freight movement relying on the nation’s roads and bridges, he noted that infrastructure investment remains essential to economic growth and national connectivity.
Administrator McMaster also discussed the importance of Buy America policies and continued federal support for domestically produced steel. He highlighted the role American manufacturing capabilities play not only in infrastructure development, but also in strengthening national security and supply chain reliability.
Building Resilient Infrastructure for the Future
McMaster spoke about the need to advance infrastructure projects efficiently while maintaining safety and long-term performance. He pointed to permitting improvements and streamlined project delivery as important tools to help accelerate priority transportation projects and reduce costs associated with delays.
Steel’s role in building durable, resilient infrastructure was another key theme of the discussion. McMaster noted the importance of designing bridges and transportation systems that serve future generations, including the use of innovative steel solutions that improve durability, longevity and structural performance.
He also emphasized the need to address aging bridges while investing in resilient infrastructure designed for long service life.
Advancing Innovation Through Industry Partnership
Administrator McMaster recognized the value of AISI’s ongoing partnership with FHWA and Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center, particularly through collaborative programs that support innovation and infrastructure performance.
He specifically highlighted the contributions of the AISI-led Corrosion Advisory Group, Welding Advisory Group, and Bridge Task Force in advancing steel bridge technologies, durability and best practices for the transportation industry. McMaster noted that continued innovation in steel materials and bridge solutions remains important as the industry works to improve infrastructure performance for future generations.
AISI appreciates Administrator McMaster taking the time to engage directly with steel industry leaders and discuss the shared commitment to strengthening America’s infrastructure through innovation, resiliency and domestically produced steel.
Does steel provide an economical solution for bridge construction?
- Due to the light weight of steel, cost savings can be significant
- Studies show that weathering, A1010 (A709-50CR), and galvanized steel reduces both initial and life cycle costs.
- Steel can compete and even save costs when compared with nearly identical concrete structures. re.
- Steel bridges also have long lives, decreasing the need for replacement.
- Steel’s high strength permits longer spans, minimizing disruption to underlying habitats.
- Steel is highly resistant to extreme natural disasters such as earthquakes.
- Steel is the world’s most recycled material and is infinitely recyclable.
- Short span steel bridges can be designed with prefabricated elements which provide a simpler installation and cost savings.
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