NEWTON, Mass. — Working as a team is critical to success in the construction industry, so METALCON turned to two sports icons from Pittsburgh to speak on the subject at its 2019 expo.

On Oct. 16 at 11 a.m., U.S. Steel, a leading integrated steel producer and Fortune 250 company, is hosting special guest Rocky Bleier, a four-time NFL Super Bowl Champion and running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers in his keynote, Leadership through Teamwork, Perseverance & Hope.

On Oct. 17 at 11 a.m., PPG, a global supplier of paints, coatings and specialty materials, introduces former professional ice hockey center and seven-time Stanley Cup winner, Bryan Trottier, who will share his life journey, including the challenges he overcame along the way and life lessons learned in Finding Strength in Teamwork & Diversity. 

METALCON is the largest international event for the metal construction industry. This year’s event is scheduled to take place at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Penn. from Oct. 16 to Oct. 18.

“We are so excited to have these two local sports icons as our keynote speakers this year,” said METALCON Show Director Claire Kilcoyne. “Their very personal stories are sure to inspire attendees.”

Bleier embodies heroism, determination, teamwork and leadership. After being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1968, he was drafted by the U.S. Army to fight in Vietnam just one year later. Bleier was quickly thrust into combat, seriously wounded and told he would never walk again. He bravely rehabilitated himself to condition for re-entry into the NFL and defeating all odds, regained his running back position.

In his keynote, Bleier will discuss why some organizations dominate and some lose, and will define the ingredients for real success. He focuses on winning through perseverance, hope, commitment and trust. Framed through parallels to football and Bleier’s personal journey, he will explore both structural and emotional aspects necessary for individuals and organizations to reach their greatest potential. He will address how successful teams and organizations share four characteristics: leadership, people, vision and a shared belief system.

Trottier, who played 18 seasons in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins and New York Islanders, faced bullying on the ice due to his small stature. He also faced discrimination and racism because of his native heritage. He struggled to navigate the path to his dream but sought out people who could help him along the way. He learned the value of being part of a team and found strength in his team. He gained life lessons from sports, music and his work ethic. 

Trottier will cover the importance of leadership, the uniqueness of teams and how it strengthens an organization. He will also cover the importance of diversity in an organization — diversity of thought, perspective and experience. He will even share a few ice hockey stories. 

In addition to focusing on Pittsburgh with its speakers, METALCON will give back to the local community. METALCON is partnering with a charity near and dear to Bleier, the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania, for this year’s giving back program. The program will raise money for essential housing, employment and vital supportive services for eligible Pittsburgh-area veterans, service members, and their families to improve their self-sufficiency, sustainability, and quality of life.

Visit www.metalcon.com for more information.