C + P and steel go together like fried fish and tartar sauce, like soccer and goal or summer and ice cream. Pretty much inseparable. And so, to mark our 100th company anniversary this year, we are taking a special look at our favorite material. In a four-part series, we will be looking at how our company founders came up with steel, what steel construction is all about and what the future of steel looks like.
In today's fourth and final part of our series, we meet an institution that not only has steel in its DNA, but also lives and breathes steel: the "Deutsche Stahlbau-Verband" (German Steel Construction Association).
In an interview with Managing Director Gregor Machura, we talk about the role of the association, current developments in the industry – and, of course, the future of steel construction.
Mr Machura, C + P has been a member of the "Deutsche Stahlbau-Verband" since 1970. What role does the association play for its member companies?
The "Deutsche Stahlbau-Verband" (German Steel Construction Association) represents the interests of medium-sized German steel construction companies and the steel industry in dealings with politicians, authorities and the public at national and European level. At the same time, we see ourselves as a knowledge platform and network.
We pool expertise, promote exchange and make current developments in technology, standardisation and economics accessible and transparent. In this way, we ensure that our members always have their finger on the pulse of the industry.
What role does a traditional company like CHRISTMANN + PFEIFER play in your association?
Traditional companies like CHRISTMANN + PFEIFER are of particular importance to us because they represent the foundation of our industry. We are faced with the task of combining the enormous performance capabilities of steel with consistent sustainability strategies.
For 100 years, CHRISTMANN + PFEIFER has stood for quality and reliability. These are qualities that are indispensable, especially in today's world and with today's challenges. At the same time, the company brings innovative strength to the association, whether in the development of new construction methods, the sustainable use of resources or the training of skilled workers. This combination of tradition and shaping the future strengthens the entire association.
How have the industry and the association's work changed?
Today, steel construction faces completely different conditions than it did 20 or 30 years ago. Sustainability, climate protection and resource efficiency have become central issues, and steel offers convincing solutions to these challenges in particular. That is why we at the association focus on topics such as sustainability and modular construction methods and actively promote them.
This has also changed the work of our association. Today, we are more in demand politically, accompanying complex transformation processes and at the same time supporting our members in standardisation, innovation and the recruiting of skilled workers.
Together with bauforumstahl, the "Deutsche Stahlbau-Verband" has developed from a traditional trade association into a modern network for the future that provides guidance and actively shapes the industry.
How do you see the future for steel construction in Germany?
We see steel construction as THE industry of the future. Steel is flexible, efficient and almost completely recyclable. It is the building material that enables the transition to a sustainable construction industry. With steel, we can erect structures that meet the highest technical requirements while actively contributing to climate protection.
Added to this is the great importance of steel construction for infrastructure projects such as bridge renovations or the expansion of railways. If the political framework conditions are right, steel construction will be the driver of innovation, job creation and climate protection in Germany in the future.
What are the biggest challenges at present?
Our industry is currently facing a number of challenges. The transition to climate-friendly production processes requires high levels of investment, which poses a major challenge for manufacturers. At the same time, high energy prices, a growing shortage of skilled workers and lengthy approval processes are putting a strain on everyday business.
It is crucial that politicians and administrators create reliable framework conditions that provide planning and investment security. It is equally important to attract and retain sufficient qualified skilled workers, because only with strong and well-trained teams can our member companies successfully master the transformation and secure their role in the construction industry in the future.
The "Deutsche Stahlbau-Verband" is actively committed to working with its members and partners to develop sustainable solutions and strengthen the long-term competitiveness of the industry.
