Vance Showcases Cutting-Edge Steel Tech at South Carolina Plant

A New Era for American Steel

Vice President JD Vance visited the Nucor Steel Berkeley plant in Huger, South Carolina, on May 1 to highlight the advanced technology driving what he called an 'industrial renaissance' in the United States. The visit, marking the Trump administration’s first 100 days, underscored a commitment to strengthening domestic manufacturing. Vance emphasized that facilities like Nucor represent the future of American industry, producing steel that powers everything from bridges to household appliances.

The 62-acre plant, located 35 miles north of Charleston, employs 1,000 workers and 350 contractors, producing 3.6 million tons of steel annually. Nucor, North America’s largest steel manufacturer, produces 25 percent of the steel consumed in the U.S. Vance, joined by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, and Rep. Nancy Mace, toured the facility’s control room, which he described as 'like a spaceship,' marveling at the molten steel glowing orange in massive furnaces.

Technology Driving Prosperity

Vance rejected claims that the administration’s trade policies aim to revive outdated jobs. 'What it made me realize is this technology … We think about it as iPhones in our pockets ... But technology is happening right here at a steelmaking facility in Berkeley, South Carolina,' he said. He argued that Nucor’s high-tech operations demonstrate that steel jobs are not relics of the past but vital to the nation’s future, supporting industries like auto manufacturing, which include 500 companies in South Carolina.

The vice president’s visit was personal as well as professional. He shared that his grandfather, who raised him, worked 40 years as a welder at Armco Steel in Middletown, Ohio. 'When you see a lawn mower, a water heater, a kitchen appliance in your neighbor’s home, I hope every single one of you feel a sense of pride,' Vance told Nucor workers, connecting their efforts to the broader American dream.

Boosting American Manufacturing

Nucor’s leadership, including CEO Leon Topalian, praised the administration’s policies, particularly the reinstatement of Section 232 steel tariffs. 'We appreciate the actions the Trump Administration has taken to fully reinstate the Section 232 steel tariffs that are helping level the playing field for our domestic steel producers,' Topalian said. These tariffs aim to protect American steelmakers from foreign competition, ensuring that domestic producers like Nucor can thrive.

The company reported $30.7 billion in sales for 2024, with a 10 percent production increase in the first quarter of this year. Topalian noted that Nucor’s backlog of orders is 25 percent higher than last year, signaling strong demand. 'Because of what you, Mr. Vice President, and the president are currently doing in office, Nucor will continue to invest and grow this company,' he said, pledging to create brighter futures for workers.

A Vision for Self-Reliance

Vance tied the administration’s economic agenda to national security and community well-being. 'This is a national security issue for us, so day-to-day it’s a great quality of life issue for us, and families,' said Berkeley County official Cribb, emphasizing the importance of domestic steel production. Vance echoed this, stating, 'We want our children to grow up in a country where the things that they need are made by their neighbors.'

The vice president also highlighted the administration’s energy policies, noting, 'We have started drill, baby, drilling. It means cheaper gas, and it means an America that is self-reliant.' These efforts, he argued, complement the push for manufacturing strength, ensuring that facilities like Nucor can operate efficiently and competitively.

South Carolina’s Role in the Renaissance

South Carolina’s industrial prowess was a focal point of the visit. 'Our state is leading the way in rebuilding America’s industrial strength, and Nucor Steel is a perfect example of the grit, determination, and excellence that defines South Carolina,' said Rep. Nancy Mace. The state’s two Nucor plants, in Huger and Florence, employ over 2,500 people, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Vance’s visit, his first to South Carolina as vice president, reinforced the administration’s focus on places like Berkeley County, which John McGrath, chair of the Berkeley County Republican Party, called 'the vital role Berkeley County plays in American manufacturing.' The event, attended by 500 workers and guests, was a testament to the optimism surrounding the administration’s vision for a revitalized industrial base.