US Steel is investing aggressively in an evolving oilfield. And today I got to see one of the most impressive facilities right at the center of it.
I’m in Birmingham, Alabama, this week for U. S. Steel’s 2026 Tubular Seminar, which included a tour of the Fairfield Works steel and pipe mill.
Last July, Nippon Steel closed on its highly-contested acquisition of US Steel.
Part of the argument for the deal was the reality of larger investment flows into US Steel as a result.
Sure enough, $75 million is now being invested at Fairfield in a new premium pipe threading line.
As I’m learning while I’m here, premium threading is increasingly necessary as we build longer wellbores in deeper, hotter, and generally more harsh environments.
We hear a lot about the reindustrialization of the US.
Fairfield is a powerful reminder of how much industrial footprint already exists here, and how much capital is flowing into it.
I’m walking away with a much more visceral understanding of the craft and technical excellence that sits at the foundation of much of our critical infrastructure, energy and otherwise.
And having been wildly entertained by such a great tour, I now get to return the favor by talking through ever-changing oil & gas markets on stage with Blake McLean.
Blake and I have a very high bar to cross here. Keep your fingers crossed for us.
