Steel Professionals Converge in Blytheville for SMS Continuous Casting Training at Arkansas Northeastern College.

 

Steel Professionals Converge in Blytheville for SMS Continuous Casting Training at Arkansas Northeastern College.

On March 19–20, 2025, Arkansas Northeastern College (ANC) hosted a premier two-day Continuous Caster Maintenance Training presented by global steel technology leader SMS group. Held at ANC’s state-of-the-art Center for Allied Technologies, the event brought together professionals from across the U.S. steel manufacturing sector to deepen their expertise in continuous casting systems.

Representatives from facilities in Vidor, Midlothian, Beaumont, and Sinton, Texas; Tuscaloosa, Alabama; West Mifflin, Pennsylvania; Piggott and Blytheville, Arkansas participated in this intensive program. The training featured in-depth sessions on mold copper coatings, caster segment maintenance, EMS and EMBR systems, hydraulic systems, steel cleanliness, breakout detection, and the latest digital tools in caster maintenance.

The curriculum, developed by SMS technical experts, delivered a balanced mix of caster theory, troubleshooting practices, and hands-on insights into the maintenance of critical components like torches, oscillators, level control systems, and roll overlays. Topics like oscillation mechanics, mold design, and defect detection helped connect theory to daily production challenges in continuous casting.

In addition to the classroom training, participants enjoyed a guided tour of Big River Steel, one of North America’s most advanced steelmaking facilities. This exclusive opportunity gave attendees a live look at continuous casting technologies in action and reinforced the practical applications of what they learned.

"Bringing together professionals from across the country to share insights and best practices is what makes this program so impactful,” said AVP of Workforce Development, Stacey Walker. “The collaboration between SMS, our college, and the steel industry ensures that the training remains relevant and high-impact."

With attendees from key industry locations and a curriculum tailored to real-world needs, the Continuous Casting Training at ANC not only fostered learning but also strengthened the national network of steel professionals committed to operational excellence and maintenance innovation. We appreciate our long-term partner SMS to provide valuable training for industries in the United States. 

Local companies were able to take advantage of state and county workforce training incentives to reimburse the company up to 100% of the total cost of training.