The Crucial Role of Legal Expertise in Structural Steel Fabrication

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President In the complex and highly regulated world of structural steel fabrication, having a good lawyer is not just a luxury but a necessity. The industry is fraught with legal challenges that can arise at any stage of the fabrication process, ...

Steel Plus News

The Challenges of Rising Gas Costs and Logistics for Structural Steel Fabricators

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President Structural steel fabrication, a backbone of the construction industry, faces significant hurdles due to rising gas costs and logistical challenges. As global gas prices soar, fabricators must navigate increased operational expenses affecting every aspect of their business, from raw material ...
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Spreading Holiday Cheer: Supporting School Nutrition Programs on Giving Tuesday

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President As the year draws to a close and the holiday season envelops us in its warm embrace, it's a time for reflection, gratitude, and giving. Amidst the festive lights and joyous celebrations, it's important to remember those who may not ...
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A Major Benefit to Members of a Buying Group? Multiple Suppliers in the Same Category

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President Having multiple suppliers in the same category within a buying group offers several significant advantages: Enhanced Bargaining Power: With multiple suppliers vying for business, the buying group has greater leverage to negotiate better programs, terms, and conditions. Increased Competition: Suppliers ...
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Top 5 Reasons a Structural Steel Erector Should Join Steel Plus Network!

Are you a structural steel erector? Joining Steel Plus Network (SPN), North America’s Premier Structural Steel Buying Group, can offer several benefits for you, including: Rebates on purchases: SPN offers the purchasing power of over 120 steel fabrication locations to negotiate rebate opportunities with ...
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Managing High Retained Earnings: What Companies Do with Excess Profits

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President In today’s competitive business environment, retaining earnings is a strategic decision that many companies face as they look to bolster long-term growth. High retained earnings, which are profits kept in the company rather than distributed as dividends, are often viewed ...
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The Power of Multi-Medium Advertising: A Key to Business Success!

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving market, the importance of advertising across multiple mediums cannot be overstated. Companies that leverage a diverse range of advertising platforms not only enhance their visibility but also significantly boost their chances of reaching a broader ...
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Another round of incredible events hosted by SPN!

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President In September, Steel Plus Network had the pleasure of hosting two remarkable events that spanned two beautiful Canadian cities: Burlington, Ontario, and Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Québec. The events were the perfect blend of leisure, learning, and networking, leaving all participants thoroughly satisfied. ...
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The Power of a Strong Board of Managers in Building Company Strength

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President In today’s dynamic business environment, the role of a board of managers is more crucial than ever. A well-structured and effective board can be the backbone of a company’s success, providing strategic direction, oversight, and support. Steel Plus Network’s board ...
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Creating a Successful Environment for Business Networking

by Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President In today’s interconnected world, business networking is more crucial than ever. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or just starting your career, building a robust network can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and personal growth. Here are some ...
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The Power of Social Media in Business: Building Your Brand, Attracting Clients, and Boosting Sales

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President In the digital age, social media has emerged as a powerhouse for businesses. Whether you’re a small startup or a multinational corporation, leveraging social media is no longer optional—it’s essential. Let’s dive into why social media matters and how it ...
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Continuing Education in the Structural Steel Industry

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President Continuing education in the structural steel industry plays a pivotal role in ensuring the industry’s long-term sustainability. Here are some of the subjects that must be focused on in order  to keep this momentum going. Environmental Resilience and Efficiency: Properties ...
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How to Stay Cool in This July Heat!

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President Dealing with scorching July heat can feel like a battle against the sun itself, but fear not—I’ve got some refreshing strategies to help you stay cool. Hydrate Like a Cactus: Seriously, water is your best friend. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Carry ...
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How to Build Connections in the Structural Steel Industry

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President In the dynamic world of structural steel, building connections is essential for business growth and professional success. Here are some effective ways to connect with industry professionals. Attend Industry Events and Tradeshows: Participate in events like the NASCC: The Steel ...
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Welding in High Temperatures: Strategies for Staying Cool Under the Hood

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President Welders working in fabrication shops face intense heat, especially during scorching outdoor temperatures. Unlike outdoor workers who may benefit from a cool breeze, indoor welders lack that relief. And with the recent heat domes settling over parts of the western ...
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Celebrating Father’s Day in the Structural Steel Industry: Honouring Legacy and Ensuring Future Success

By Colleen Blackmore-Doucette, President As Steel Plus Network and its members celebrate Father’s Day, we take the time to recognize the significant contributions of founders and leaders in the structural steel fabrication industry. These visionary individuals have shaped their organizations and the industry itself, ...
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