InfraBuild team visits Europe’s leading steelmakers

Fourteen InfraBuild manufacturing leaders have completed a focused research and study tour across Austria, Germany and Italy, connecting with some of the world’s most advanced steelmakers and equipment suppliers.

The purpose was clear. Learn from global best practice and bring practical improvements back to our operations in Australia.

Learning from world-class operators

The group visited leading electric arc furnace and rolling mill facilities, along with major original equipment manufacturers supporting long product steelmaking.

The centrepiece of the program was a week-long technical seminar with Badische Stahl Engineering in Kehl, Germany. The sessions combined plant tours, technical workshops and direct engagement with operational and maintenance teams.

“Our objective was not just to observe, but to ask questions, challenge ourselves and identify what we can do better at home,” said Anthony Micallef, InfraBuild’s Executive General Manager Manufacturing.

“The openness of our hosts and the depth of technical discussion gave our team valuable insight into how high-performing operations think and act every day.”

Building capability, not just knowledge

Across the tour, the team focused on operational discipline, quality management, maintenance practices and workforce development.

A highlight was visiting a dedicated training centre in Germany, where significant investment has been made in developing the next generation of steelmaking talent.

“That level of commitment to training reinforces how important it is to build capability from within,” he said. “Sustainable performance comes from skilled people supported by strong systems.”

Turning insight into action

The study tour concluded in northern Italy with further plant visits and technical discussions with key OEM partners. The emphasis was on practical applications, including opportunities to enhance existing assets.

“This was a strategic investment in our people,” Anthony said. “If we want to lift performance, safety and efficiency, we must continually learn from the best.”

“The real outcome will be measured in the improvements we implement across our sites in the months ahead.”

By exposing our teams to global benchmarks and strengthening technical capability, InfraBuild continues to invest in building a stronger, more competitive manufacturing business for the future.