Analysis
February 10, 2026
Final Thoughts: Tampa bound...
Written by Ethan Bernard
Gone conferencin’. Yes, it’s about that time when some of our staff are already en route to Florida, as the Tampa Steel Conference kicks off on Wednesday.
Sunshine. More than 600 attendees. From 12 countries and counting. Fine weather. Over 350 companies all along the value chain. We’re on the cusp of something big here, and it’s just about to start. And did we mention no snow?
Attendees are packing up golf clubs, pastel shirts, and copious amounts of sunblock. Exhibitors are unloading the latest industry-relevant gear. And, of course, all the presenters are preparing to deliver the most up-to-date analysis on all the topics relevant to the steel industry.
We’re going to get insights from some of the top CEOs. And from service centers to trade attorneys, we’ve got you covered.
Housekeeping
I’m not sure if Einstein said it, but repetition is probably one of the best ways to get people to hear your message. So here are a couple of housekeeping matters.
This year’s conference app has already launched, so be sure to download it ahead of time to prepare. It’s available for download in the Google Play and Apple stores.
Networking has already begun, but for those who like to live a little faster, you can still download the app in Tampa, just in case.
The golf tournament, sponsored by Crowe, is on Wednesday from 12-5 p.m. ET. And the harbor cruise is from 2:30-5:00 p.m. the same day. A tough choice, for sure.
Registration is from 3:30-7:30 pm ET on Wednesday at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street.
There is a welcome reception at the JW Marriott from 6:00-7:30 p.m. Feel free to buttonhole us if you see us out on the floor. We’d love to talk to you.
Then the panels get going the next day. Believe it or not, you still have time to register here.
Get ready for lift-off…
If tariffs dominated 2025, what will be the big issue of 2026? USMCA talks are scheduled for later this year. Will this be THE issue that defines the conferences? There are about 12 more vying for contention, so we’ll be tuning in closely to find out what’s standing front and center.
Whatever happens in the rest of 2026, remember, the outlook is never cloudy at the Tampa Steel Conference. OK, now I just hope the weather cooperates. No pressure.
In any case, we hope to see you all on Wednesday!
