Meet Jade’s In-House Metallurgist
We are proud to share technical tips and industry updates from Jade Steel’s in-house metallurgist here in our “Ask the Metallurgist” blog.
In this special rapid-fire edition of Ask the Metallurgist, our team braved the “steely” gaze of metallurgist Andrew Freborg to ask a few questions and help our readers get to know our expert—and learn from his experience in the industry. His responses have been lightly edited for the blog format.
Do you have your own questions for our metallurgist? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Jade Sterling Steel.
Background: How did you originally become interested in metallurgy?
“My father was an operations manager with a major forging company in Chicago, and as a kid I would spend many Saturday mornings and holidays with him at work while he was doing his duties. My father knew many metallurgists in the steel industry, and highly respected them.”
“My dad’s best friend and our neighbor was chief metallurgist with Brad Foote Gear, and when I was a junior in high school my dad “volunteered” me to go to a student night with the Chicago ASM with his friend. At the event, two professors from Illinois Institute of Technology gave me a “hard sell” in engineering education at IIT. I brought home the information, and my dad immediately got excited and instructed me not to neglect the opportunity. When I attended various open houses at IIT, I was hooked on the very focused science and math curricula. That was it!”
What is your favorite thing about working in this space?
“Professional growth and learning new things daily.”
If you didn’t work in steel you would be in _____?
“Aerospace engineering or pharmacology.”
Industry Change: What are the biggest changes you have seen in your time in the metal industry?
“The more general rapid pace, and exponentially increasing quality standards.”
What do you think could most be improved in the metal industry?
“I would like to see more long-term investment in focused steel research and development, and a return to more focused ferrous metallurgy education in university engineering programs. Also, I think pre-university science programs should introduce the basics of metal science and physics to kids. This would have great long-term benefits to the industry, and our American society in general.”
What do you think outside professionals would find most interesting or surprising about the metal industry today?
“The variety of engineering complexity involved in producing and designing with steel.”
Personal: “ What do you think is the most common misperception about you?”
“<laughs> That I’m actually a fairly funny and kind guy!”
What do you enjoy outside of work?
“I used to ride and exercise show jumping horses, but had to step away from that. I love the outdoors and adventures ‘off-grid.’ I also enjoy history and science books, or watching Western or historical movies.”
Keep Up with the Metallurgist
We thank Andrew for his time and look forward to his continued contributions here on the blog. Please reach out to our team if you have any questions or topics you would like to see covered in the future.
For over 55 years, Jade Sterling Steel has been one of the nation’s premier distributors of steel bar and wire rod. Our 40,000+ ton inventory features a broad selection of grades, sizes, and finishing options, giving our customers the flexibility to select the best material for their needs. Whether you need a just-in-time delivery or a long-term supply chain partner, our team is here to help.
