The steel fabrication industry continues to navigate shifting economic conditions, evolving policy decisions, workforce pressures, and changing operating costs. In this environment, reliable, industry-specific data is essential for informed decision-making.
To provide meaningful insight and practical context, the Steel Tank Institute/Steel Plate Fabricators Association (STI/SPFA) is launching a new industry benchmarking initiative designed to give companies a clearer understanding of how they compare within the broader steel fabrication landscape.
This effort will result in an aggregated industry report reflecting real-world conditions across steel tank, vessel, and pipe fabrication. All data will be collected confidentially through an independent third party and reported only in aggregate form, ensuring that no individual company information is identified or disclosed.
What Benchmarking Will Measure
The STI/SPFA Industry Benchmarking Survey will gather high-level data across key business areas that shape company performance and long-term planning.
The survey will examine workforce trends, financial and cost pressures, market demand conditions, and overall industry sentiment. It will also explore the impact of policy and trade dynamics, as well as how companies are approaching automation and emerging technologies.
All responses will be combined and reported only in aggregate, providing a clear and anonymous snapshot of industry conditions in 2026.
Providing Meaningful Benchmarking Data
This benchmarking initiative is designed to collect and share anonymized data that helps companies better understand industry trends, common business practices, and areas where there may be opportunities to strengthen operations.
By participating, your company will gain access to aggregated industry data that provides valuable context for evaluating your own performance. The final report will help you better understand how your workforce trends, cost structure, and market outlook compare to the broader steel fabrication industry — supporting more informed planning and strategic decision-making.
Anyone who completes the survey will receive a complimentary copy of the final report.
Why Participation Matters
The strength of any benchmark depends on broad participation. The more companies that contribute, the more representative and meaningful the final report becomes for the entire industry.
Because all responses are confidential and reported only in aggregate, participants can share information with confidence while contributing to a stronger industry-wide perspective.
Watch for the Invitation
Additional details, including participation timelines and next steps, are being distributed now. Members are encouraged to watch for the survey invitation and take a few minutes to participate.
On behalf of STI/SPFA, I invite you to participate in this important initiative. By contributing your perspective, you help build a stronger, data-informed foundation for our industry — one that supports smarter decisions, stronger advocacy, and sustained growth across the steel fabrication sector.
Thank you in advance for sharing your perspective.
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