SSAB’s Steel Pile Day 2026: topical insights and the industry’s meeting place for 20 years
Through the eyes of a first-time attendee: new insights and perspectives
Sanna Kalanti from SD Nordics attended the event in person for the first time. The opening session made an immediate impression: the presentation of the Mo i Rana project and discussions on steel durability opened new perspectives and sparked ideas for future projects. Meeting colleagues and networking were also, in her view, an important part of the event’s value.
From a structural designer’s perspective, Sanna was particularly interested in steel‑frame buildings and new solutions in piling. She was most looking forward to the afternoon presentation by Antti Perälä (Project Engineering Manager, SSAB), which covered the latest updates to design and installation manuals as well as software — “topics that help keep our expertise up to date,” Sanna notes.
Long‑time professionals Markku Mäkinen and Markku Tuhola also praised the day’s content. They highlighted how the combination of practical examples, international projects and theory offers a comprehensive overview of the industry’s development. They described the day as excellent and well aligned with participants’ expectations.
International perspective strengthens
Mikael Mitros, Sales Director for SSAB Tubular products, described the event atmosphere as very positive and interactive. He hopes that in the coming years the international reach of the event can be expanded even further to attract a broader audience.
According to Mikael, interest in infrastructure construction remains high across Europe, supported by various ongoing and upcoming projects.
Panel discussion gathered the voices of the industry
The day concluded with a panel discussion featuring experienced experts: Sami Eronen (Ruukki Construction), Outi Kettunen (Ramboll Finland), Mirva Koskinen (City of Helsinki), Ossi Hakanen (KFS Finland) and Veli Matti Uotinen (Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency).
Sami Eronen, CEO of Ruukki Construction reflected on the long history of Steel Pile Day and how it originated from a strong sense of industry collaboration. “We need the whole industry involved. This is not only about product suppliers, contractors or designers — it’s about all of us,” he emphasized.
The panel highlighted the importance of the event as a place where knowledge is updated and perspectives are broadened. The experts agreed that the strength of Steel Pile Day lies in its wide ranging presentations. Inspired by this, the panelists expressed their hope to see the event continue for at least the next 20 years.
Quality, responsibility and comprehensive solutions in focus
Timo Koivisto, CEO of the Finnish Constructional Steelwork Association, considered the event highly successful and emphasized the value of the international project presentations as well as the videos and demonstrations shown throughout the day.
“Responsibility, low‑carbon solutions, factory presentations and many other themes bring rich variety to the event. Internationality, quality and comprehensive deliveries reflect why SSAB succeeds also on the international level,” Timo summarizes.
At the end of the day, Timo Koivisto and Petteri Steen also discussed potential future cooperation opportunities between the Finnish Constructional Steelwork Association and SSAB to further develop the event.
A long tradition and strong interest
Petteri Steen, Head of Tubular production, reminded the audience that Steel Pile Day was now held for the 20th time. The concept has remained largely the same over the years — and perhaps that is exactly what demonstrates its effectiveness, he reflects.
“Clearly we are doing something right, as year after year the event attracts so many participants. This year’s almost 300 attendees once again confirmed that Steel Pile Day is considered an important and timely event — a unifying force and a guiding platform for the future of domestic piling business,” Petteri concludes with satisfaction.
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