SSSBA Semi-Annual Meeting in Omaha Highlights Innovation and Industry Collaboration

The Short Span Steel Bridge Alliance (SSSBA) held its Semi-Annual Membership Meeting on October 12–14, 2026, in Omaha, Nebraska. The three-day event brought together steel bridge industry leaders, engineers, researchers, fabricators, suppliers and partner organizations to discuss industry developments, emerging technologies and opportunities to expand the use of short span steel bridges.

Chaired by Myrissa Welch of SSAB, the meeting was held in conjunction with the National Association of County Engineers (NACE) Executive Committee and Board meeting.

Myrissa Welch of SSAB Americas and Chair of the SSSBA provides an update on steel industry trends, market conditions and recent developments during the SSSBA Semi-Annual Meeting in Omaha.

Advancing Steel Bridge Research and Innovation

The SSSBA Technical Council and Marketing and Education Council met to review ongoing activities, share industry developments and discuss priorities for the coming year.

Meeting highlights included:

• Steel Bridge Design Tools: Updates on SSSBA’s eSPAN140 and recently released ePLATE140 design tools, along with discussions on emerging technologies.
• Research and Innovation: Ongoing initiatives focused on improving steel bridge design, construction efficiency and long-term performance.
• Bridge Maintenance and Preservation: Educational efforts to help bridge owners better understand steel bridge inspection, maintenance and service life.
• Marketing and Education: Outreach programs and resources to promote the benefits of steel bridges to engineers, transportation agencies and bridge owners.
• Industry Collaboration: Updates from SSSBA member organizations on new products, projects and industry developments.

These activities reflect SSSBA’s continued commitment to providing practical resources, advancing steel bridge technology and expanding opportunities for steel in transportation infrastructure.

Melissa Lindsley of the American Galvanizers Association discusses hot-dip galvanizing, industry trends and opportunities to advance steel bridge construction during the SSSBA Semi-Annual Meeting in Omaha.

Kevan Stone, Executive Director of NACE, discusses the importance of federal advocacy in supporting county transportation infrastructure.

Industry Updates and Partner Collaboration

The SSSBA General Session featured presentations on steel industry trends, market conditions and activities of key partner organizations, including the National Corrugated Steel Pipe Association, National Steel Bridge Alliance, International Zinc Association and American Galvanizers Association.

The presentations highlighted the importance of industry collaboration in advancing innovative steel infrastructure solutions and strengthening educational efforts.

SSSBA meeting attendees visit the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, which connects Omaha, Nebraska, and Council Bluffs, Iowa, following a presentation by the City of Omaha.

Facility Tour and Omaha Bridge Visit

The meeting began with a tour of the Valmont Galvanizing facility in Valley, Nebraska, where attendees learned about hot-dip galvanizing operations and corrosion protection for steel infrastructure.

Later in the week, Derek Miller of the City of Omaha provided an overview of the planning and community benefits of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, followed by a walking tour of the landmark pedestrian crossing connecting Nebraska and Iowa.

These activities offered attendees opportunities to see infrastructure applications firsthand and learn more about the role of bridges in connecting communities.

SSSBA members tour the Valmont Galvanizing facility in Valley, Nebraska, learning about hot-dip galvanizing operations and corrosion protection for steel bridges and infrastructure.

Strengthening the Partnership with County Engineers

A highlight of the meeting was the opportunity for SSSBA members and NACE leadership to connect through joint events and networking activities.

Joint networking events, including receptions, dinner and a golf outing, provided additional opportunities for SSSBA members and county engineers to exchange ideas on how to improve our nations infrastructure.

Participants enjoy a golf outing in Omaha as part of the SSSBA Semi-Annual Meeting activities.

SSSBA members gather for an evening reception.

SSSBA recognizes the generous support of its Diamond, Gold and Silver sponsors.

Thank You to Our Meeting Sponsors

SSSBA extends a special thank you to the following organizations for their generous sponsorship of the Omaha meeting. Their support helped make the joint receptions, dinner and networking opportunities possible, bringing together steel bridge industry leaders and county engineers to strengthen relationships and encourage collaboration.

Diamond Sponsors

• Acrow
• American Galvanizers Association
• AZZ Metal Coatings
• Cleveland-Cliffs
• Fought & Company
• National Steel Bridge Alliance
• SSAB Americas
• STS Steel
• V&S Galvanizing

Gold Sponsors

• South Atlantic Galvanizing

Silver Sponsors

• Contech Engineered Solutions
• Quality Bridge & Fab, Inc.
• Sherwin-Williams
• Wheeler

Next SSSBA Meeting

The next SSSBA Semi-Annual Membership Meeting will take place on March 17, 2027, at the American Iron and Steel Institute headquarters in Washington, D.C.

For additional information about SSSBA activities or membership opportunities, contact Dan Snyder, SSSBA Director, at dsnyder@steel.org.