The Ultimate Unofficial Guide to AISTech 2025 in Nashville
Control Chief is headed to Music City! We’re excited to exhibit at AISTech 2025, one of the steel industry’s most important events of the year. Whether you’re a long-time attendee or checking it out for the first time, this guide will help you get the most out of your AISTech experience—especially if you’re visiting Nashville for the first time.
Let’s dive into what AISTech 2025 is all about, why it matters, and what you need to know before you arrive.
What is AISTech?
AISTech, the Iron & Steel Technology Conference and Exposition, is the premier event for the global steel industry. Hosted by the Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST), this annual conference brings together thousands of steel professionals, engineers, executives, and suppliers to discuss advancements, explore industry trends, and showcase the latest in technology and services.
It’s more than a conference—it’s a hub for innovation, networking, and problem-solving.
AISTech 2025 At-A-Glance
- 📍 Location: Music City Center – 201 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN
- 📅 Dates: May 5–8, 2025
- 🎟️ Registration: Register Here
- 🛏️ Hotel Info: View Hotel Blocks
- 🗺️ Control Chief Booth: #2951
Where to Find Control Chief
We’re proud to be a part of the Iron & Steel Exposition once again. Stop by Booth #2951 to meet our team and see how Control Chief’s industrial remote control solutions can keep your operations running efficiently and safely.
Whether you’re looking for remote solutions for heavy equipment, locomotives, or steel processing systems, our team is ready to show you what’s possible.
Event Highlights
🎤 Keynote Presentation: President’s Award Breakfast
One of the marquee moments of AISTech is the President’s Award Breakfast on Tuesday, May 6 at 8:00 a.m. in the Karl F. Dean Grand Ballroom.
This year’s keynote speaker is Richard P. Teets Jr., Co-Founder and Director of Steel Dynamics Inc., delivering his presentation titled:
“Tales From the Vault.”
This event also includes the presentation of the AIST Board of Directors Awards, including the prestigious Steelmaker of the Year.
(Tickets for this breakfast can be purchased during registration.)
📚 The Howe Memorial Lecture
Held Monday, May 5 from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m., the Howe Memorial Lecture honors the legacy of Dr. Henry Marion Howe, a pioneer in steel metallurgy. The lecture covers key issues impacting the industry today. Speaker and topic details are expected soon.
🧠 Technical Sessions
With more than 500 technical presentations across multiple tracks, AISTech covers virtually every aspect of iron and steel production, including:
- Ironmaking and Steelmaking Processes
- Energy Efficiency
- Environmental Controls
- Automation and Control
- Maintenance and Reliability
- Digital Transformation
You’ll hear from experts across the field and have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and connect.
🏛️ Exhibition Hall Hours
The Expo features 500+ exhibitors showcasing the latest in steel production technology, equipment, and services. Be sure to explore the full floor and check out booths aligned with your goals.
Exhibit Hours:
- Monday, May 5: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, May 6: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 7: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
And don’t forget to stop by Control Chief Booth #2951 to see what’s new in industrial remote control tech!
Special Events and Networking
AISTech isn’t just about steel—it’s about people. The event features a packed lineup of mixers, receptions, and special interest gatherings to help you connect with peers across the industry.
Sunday, May 4:
- AIST Foundation Golf Classic (7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
- Student Plant Tour (11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
- Women in Steel / Young Professionals Development Programs
- Joint Reception for Women in Steel & Young Professionals (5:30 p.m.)
Monday–Wednesday:
- Welcome Reception in the Exhibit Hall (Monday, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.)
- Exhibit Hall Reception (Tuesday, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.)
- Town Hall Forum (Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
- Vehicle Giveaway (Wednesday, 2:30 p.m.)
These events are ideal for meeting decision-makers, technical experts, and potential partners.
Travel and Lodging
AIST has negotiated special hotel rates close to the Music City Center. Booking early ensures you’ll stay nearby—and possibly bump into a few fellow steelmakers in the lobby!
For travel tips, maps, and hotel availability, check the official AISTech Housing Page.
Next up, we’ll dive into the best of “What to Do in Nashville”—from hot chicken to honky-tonks and hidden gems. Whether you’re extending your stay or filling your evenings after the expo, we’ve got you covered with local tips and must-see attractions.
🎸 Top 10 Things to Do in Nashville
Whether you’re looking for music history, scenic views, or unique cultural finds, Nashville has something for everyone. Here are ten standout attractions to check out during your time at AISTech 2025:
- Grand Ole Opry
The legendary live country music venue that helped launch the careers of countless stars. - Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
A massive museum packed with exhibits, archives, and memorabilia celebrating the roots and evolution of country music. - Ryman Auditorium
Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” this historic venue offers tours and unforgettable live performances. - The Parthenon in Centennial Park
A full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon featuring art exhibits and the iconic 42-foot statue of Athena. - Honky Tonks on Lower Broadway
Grab a drink, hear live music from morning to midnight, and soak up the classic Nashville party scene. - Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
A stunning botanical garden and art museum located on a historic 1930s estate. - Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
A beautiful and educational urban park with monuments, fountains, and a massive granite map of Tennessee. - Jefferson Street Sound Museum
A lesser-known gem preserving the legacy of Nashville’s African-American music scene and cultural contributions. - Lane Motor Museum
A quirky and fascinating museum showcasing rare and vintage European cars, motorcycles, and oddball vehicles. - Radnor Lake State Park
A quiet retreat with scenic hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and peaceful views just outside the city.
🧠 How to Get the Most Out of AISTech
Whether it’s your first AISTech or your fifteenth, maximizing your experience at a large industry tradeshow like this one requires a little strategy. Here are some practical tips to help you walk away with valuable connections, insight, and momentum:
1. Plan Your Schedule in Advance
AISTech packs hundreds of technical sessions, keynotes, and networking events into just a few days. Review the official agenda before you arrive and highlight your must-attend sessions.
Bonus Tip: Don’t overbook yourself. Leave buffer time between sessions to explore the expo floor or follow up on a great conversation.
2. Visit the Exhibit Hall Strategically
The exhibition floor is massive—over 500 vendors, including Control Chief at Booth #2951. Don’t just wander; make a hit list of booths you want to visit, including companies you’re curious about and partners you want to reconnect with.
Bring business cards—or better yet, a digital contact card with a QR code ready to scan.
3. Network With Intention
Networking is one of the biggest values of AISTech. Talk to vendors, join receptions, and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned pro, everyone’s there to connect.
Pro Tip: Follow up within 48 hours. A quick LinkedIn connection or email goes a long way.
4. Take Notes (Seriously)
You’re going to hear a ton of great ideas, insights, and solutions—especially in technical sessions. Don’t rely on memory. Use your phone, a notebook, or a tablet to capture key takeaways and action items.
5. Use the AISTech App
Check if the conference offers a mobile app (they usually do) with an interactive map, session reminders, and real-time updates. It can save you from missing a great opportunity or getting lost on the floor.
6. Don’t Skip the Receptions
Some of the best conversations happen after hours. From the Welcome Reception in the Exhibit Hall to the President’s Award Breakfast, these events are golden for relationship-building in a relaxed atmosphere.
7. Wear Comfortable Shoes
This might sound obvious, but you’ll be on your feet for long stretches. Choose function over fashion and thank us later.
8. Make Time to Explore Nashville
You’re in one of the most exciting cities in America—don’t just stick to the convention center. Whether it’s a plate of hot chicken or a live show on Broadway, make time to enjoy Music City. (Check our full Nashville guide above!)
9. Follow the Hashtag
Keep an eye on #AISTech2025 on LinkedIn and other social platforms. It’s a great way to discover sessions people are buzzing about and find spontaneous meetups.
10. Debrief and Share What You Learned
When you get back to the office, take time to recap what you learned. Share key takeaways with your team so the value of the conference extends beyond just you.
🔧 How Control Chief Supports the Steel Industry with Reliable Remote Control Solutions
Control Chief has been a trusted name in industrial remote control technology for over 50 years. Our U.S.-made solutions are built to thrive in the demanding environments of the steel industry, delivering enhanced safety, efficiency, and operational control. From overhead cranes to locomotives and facility access systems, we help steel producers do more—with precision and reliability.
Here’s how we serve the steel industry:
🏗️ Overhead Crane Remote Control
Control Chief remote control systems for overhead cranes help operators manage heavy loads with confidence, improving workflow and reducing the risk of injury or equipment damage.
👉 Explore Crane Remote Control Solutions
🚆 Locomotive Remote Control
Our cutting-edge remote control systems allow safe, efficient switching operations from the ground—ideal for steel mills moving material by rail. Ground operators can load and unload without needing a full crew in the cab.
👉 See How Locomotive Control Improves Steel Plant Efficiency
🚪 Overhead Door and Gate Control
Control multiple facility access points with the rugged Access 1000™ system—ideal for large steel operations with dozens or even hundreds of doors and gates to manage.
👉 Learn About the Access 1000™ System
Control Chief is proud to partner with steel producers across North America, delivering robust, field-tested solutions that meet the challenges of modern steelmaking.
👉 Visit Our Steel Industry Solutions Page to Learn More
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