Bethlehem, PA – The National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH) is pleased to share a matching funds challenge opportunity offered by the Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST) Foundation in support of creating a Modern Steel Educational Kiosk to be installed in its Iron & Steel Gallery. The Association for Iron & Steel Technology will generously match contributions made by May 31, 2024, dollar for dollar, up to an aggregate amount of $30,000 towards the project.
“At NMIH, we welcome 15,000 annual visitors from all 50 states and dozens of foreign countries, including over 3,000 school children,” said Andria Zaia, NMIH Interim Executive Director. “We are excited for this opportunity to share the story of the modern steel industry and grateful to the AIST Foundation for their generosity and collaboration.”
The Iron & Steel Gallery at NMIH currently interprets the early days of the industry as it transformed the American industrial landscape through the 20th century. Visitors learn about historic steelmaking processes and technology. Exhibits focus on the steelworker, engineer, researcher, and employee of the past century. The Museum’s curatorial staff, in collaboration with a team of steel industry professionals, conceived the kiosk project to expand its interpretation of the modern steel industry with the goal of giving visitors, most importantly students, the opportunity to explore and learn about present-day steel manufacturing.
“Steel is both a ubiquitous and critical material for modern society. It enabled the Industrial Revolution more than a century ago, and it is integral to the green energy transition that is underway now. Yet, many in the public don’t fully understand the impact of this all-too-important material.” said Ron Ashburn, Executive Director of AIST. “The story of this country, and many other modern societies, is the story of steel… and the story continues to evolve. We welcome this opportunity to showcase the innovative technologies and the rewarding career opportunities in today’s steel industry.”
The kiosk will feature interactive screens providing content about the modern steel industry, including careers, technology, innovation, product, and sustainability. Visitors from the general public as well as school groups will have the opportunity to watch videos of modern processes inside a steel mill, explore 3-D models, and investigate career pathways into the industry.
Donations can be made online via credit card or by check payable to AIST and reference KIOSK mailed to AIST, Attn: Mark Didiano, 186 Thorn Hill Road, Warrendale, PA 15086 or by visiting https://www.nmih.org/kiosk/. All donations must be received by May 31, 2024, to be eligible for the match. Full details about NMIH and the Modern Steel Educational Kiosk are available at https://www.nmih.org/kiosk/.
ABOUT NATIONAL MUSEUM OF INDUSTRIAL HISTORY
A Smithsonian Institution-affiliate, the National Museum of Industrial History is dedicated to preserving America’s rich industrial heritage. Housed in an 18,000-square-foot, 110-year-old former Bethlehem Steel facility on the largest private brownfield in America, the Museum is home to exciting exhibits, engaging programs and amazing history. Learn more at nmih.org.
ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION FOR IRON & STEEL TECHNOLOGY
The Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST) is a non-profit organization with 16,600 members from more than 70 countries. With 29 Technology Committees representing all facets of the iron and steel manufacturing process and 22 Local Member Chapters spread across six continents, AIST represents an incomparable network of steel knowledge and expertise. The AIST mission is to advance the technical development, production, processing and application of iron and steel. Its vision is to be a global leader in networking, education and sustainability programs for advancing iron and steel technology. To learn more about AIST, visit aist.org
ABOUT THE AIST FOUNDATION
The AIST Foundation is a Pennsylvania-based 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation organized for charitable, education and scientific purposes. The Foundation works closely with the Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST).
Media Contact:
Megan Pildis, Director of Development, National Museum of Industrial History, [email protected] 610-428-3053