At JSW Steel USA, large-scale steel manufacturing meets advanced technology and disciplined operational management. As a leading domestic steel producer, the company plays a critical role in supporting U.S. industries that rely on high-quality steel for infrastructure, energy, transportation, and heavy equipment applications.

With major manufacturing operations in Mingo Junction, Ohio and Baytown, Texas, the company produces a wide range of steel products including steel slabs, hot rolled coil, wide plate, and large-diameter LSAW (DSAW) line pipe. The Baytown facility runs one of the widest plate mills in the United States, capable of rolling plate up to 156 inches wide and up to 6 inches thick to support demanding industrial applications.

Strengthening Operations Through Certification

Across its two-site manufacturing footprint, ISO certification has helped strengthen the management systems that govern quality, environmental performance, and operational discipline at JSW Steel USA. Certification supports consistent execution across complex manufacturing processes while reinforcing traceability, compliance, and reliability for customers running in safety-critical and regulated industries.

For large capital-intensive operations like steel manufacturing, certification provides an important framework for continuous improvement and risk reduction. Structured systems for process control, documentation, and corrective action help ensure that performance expectations are met across the entire product lifecycle.

A Collaborative Partnership with Perry Johnson Registrars, Inc.

JSW Steel USA values its partnership with Perry Johnson Registrars, Inc. (PJR), noting that the audit process has been well aligned with the realities of operating in a heavy-industrial environment.

PJR’s audits provide thorough, standards-based evaluations that help validate JSW Steel USA’s systems while offering valuable feedback that supports year-over-year improvement. This collaborative approach reinforces a disciplined management structure that is essential for maintaining high performance in complex manufacturing operations.

Scale, Technology, and Domestic Manufacturing

JSW Steel USA distinguishes itself through its scale, advanced technology, and strong commitment to domestic manufacturing. At the Mingo Junction facility, the steelmaking platform includes the largest and most modern Consteel™ electric arc furnace (EAF) technology in North America, supporting efficient melting and consistent metallurgical control. Planned upgrades will enable slab production in thicknesses up to 12 inches, expanding capabilities for demanding plate and pipe applications.

Meanwhile, the Baytown operation combines wide plate rolling capacity with a large-diameter LSAW pipe mill capable of supporting both high-volume programs and specialized custom orders. Across the company’s footprint, the vast majority of products are melted, cast, and rolled in the United States, helping customers meet “melted and manufactured in the U.S.” and Buy America requirements.

JSW Steel USA operates as a subsidiary of JSW Steel Ltd., the flagship steel business of the JSW Group, and employs more than 800 people across its U.S. operations.

Investing in the Future

Looking ahead, JSW Steel USA continues to invest in modernization and expanded capabilities. The company has announced a $145 million investment at its Mingo Junction facility, including a vacuum tank degasser and slab caster upgrades with dynamic soft reduction technology to support domestically produced steel products.

At the Baytown facility, a $110 million plate mill modernization project is underway. These investments are part of a broader portfolio of improvements expected to be completed and commissioned by FY26, further strengthening domestic steel supply and manufacturing capability.

A Commitment to Safety, Quality, and Continuous Improvement

At its core, JSW Steel USA’s philosophy is rooted in safe operations, disciplined execution, and continuous improvement. The company prioritizes investments in people, systems, and processes to deliver reliable manufacturing outcomes while supporting long-term relationships with customers and the communities where it runs.

Through its continued partnership with PJR and its commitment to strong management systems, JSW Steel USA is well positioned to support the evolving needs of U.S. industry while keeping high standards for quality, environmental performance, and operational excellence.

Headquartered in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, with an additional location in Lancaster, South Carolina, Techevon LLC is a leading provider of specialty dyes and chemistry for the aluminum anodizing industry. Since its founding in 2008, Techevon has remained focused on delivering high-quality products and exceptional customer service with one central goal: helping anodizers improve productivity and performance.

Techevon offers a comprehensive portfolio of dyes and chemistry engineered to deliver consistent color results, bath stability, and overall process efficiency. Supporting these products is a fully equipped research and development laboratory that includes a pilot anodizing line for process validation and innovation. The company provides dye bath analysis, precise color matching, and extensive quality testing services such as abrasion, hardness, corrosion, heat fastness, light fastness testing, and microscopic analysis. This strong technical foundation allows Techevon to serve as both a supplier and a trusted technical partner to customers worldwide.

The Impact of Certification

Certification has played a critical role in strengthening Techevon’s operations and reputation. By implementing structured quality management systems, the company has improved internal efficiency, enhanced teamwork, and reduced errors and duplicate efforts. Standardized processes have led to clearer communication across departments and more consistent outcomes for customers.

The certification process has also driven measurable financial benefits. By minimizing defects and waste, streamlining workflows, and improving decision-making, Techevon has reduced operational costs while increasing profitability. Certification has strengthened risk management practices, enabling the organization to proactively address challenges and prevent costly disruptions.

Beyond operational improvements, certification has reinforced a culture of continuous improvement. Regular audits provide valuable insight into areas for growth, helping Techevon refine processes and maintain high performance standards. The company views certification not simply as a requirement, but as a strategic tool that supports scalability and long-term success.

Certification has also delivered significant market advantages. Independent verification of their systems demonstrates credibility and reliability to customers and stakeholders. This has enhanced trust, opened doors to new markets and contracts, and provided a clear competitive edge. For Techevon, certification is a visible commitment to quality, sustainability, and excellence.

A Positive and Productive Partnership with Perry Johnson Registrars, Inc. (PJR)

Techevon’s experience partnering with PJR has been an essential part of their certification journey. The company consistently highlights the expertise, patience, and depth of knowledge their PJR auditor brings to each audit. This professional approach ensures that audits are organized, thorough, and constructive.

Rather than viewing audits as stressful events, Techevon sees them as valuable learning experiences. PJR’s auditor creates an environment that helps the team remain calm and confident throughout the process. Clear communication and thoughtful guidance allow Techevon to fully understand audit findings and use them to strengthen their systems even further.

The collaborative relationship with PJR has reinforced Techevon’s commitment to continuous improvement. Audits are not simply about maintaining certification status; they are opportunities to validate progress, uncover efficiencies, and confirm that systems are performing as intended. This supportive partnership has allowed Techevon to consistently achieve successful audit outcomes while gaining meaningful operational insights.

Looking Toward the Future

As Techevon expands its core sales throughout the Americas and grows its footprint in Europe, Asia, and Australia, certification remains a cornerstone of its growth strategy. With strong systems in place and a trusted partnership with PJR, the company is well positioned to continue building credibility, scaling operations, and serving anodizers around the globe.

Through technical innovation, customer-focused service, and a firm belief in the value of certification, Techevon LLC continues to set the standard for quality and reliability in the specialty anodizing industry.

Manufacturers are facing growing pressure to improve efficiency while managing rising costs, labor shortages, and ongoing supply chain disruptions. Efficiency is no longer a competitive advantage; it is a requirement. Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a practical and scalable solution that helps manufacturers increase profitability without fundamentally changing how they operate.

Rather than replacing people or demanding major capital investments, AI enhances decision-making, reduces waste, and helps organizations get more value from their existing equipment, data, and workforce. As AI adoption accelerates, manufacturers are also recognizing the importance of responsible, well-governed AI systems, an area increasingly addressed through standards such as ISO/IEC 42001, the international AI management system standard.

AI’s Real Value: Optimizing Existing Operations

One of the biggest misconceptions about AI is that it requires new machines or a full digital transformation. In reality, many manufacturers achieve meaningful gains by applying AI to improve current workflows and processes.

By analyzing production data, machine performance, and operational trends, AI uncovers inefficiencies that are difficult to identify manually. Small changes driven by these insights can lead to significant improvements in output, reliability, and margin, while still aligning with governance frameworks like ISO/IEC 42001 to ensure transparency, accountability, and risk management.

Impact of AI-Driven Optimization

Operational Area	Performance Before AI	Performance After AI
Capacity utilization	Production capacity underused due to inefficient scheduling	Capacity increased through optimized workflows and sequencing
Unplanned downtime	Frequent interruptions from equipment failures	Downtime reduced through predictive insights
Quality inspections	Labor-intensive manual inspections	Faster, more consistent automated inspections
Production throughput	Output growth constrained	Increased throughput without adding equipment

Where AI Delivers the Greatest Impact

AI creates value across both the shop floor and support functions by improving visibility, accuracy, and responsiveness. When deployed responsibly and governed effectively, AI systems can enhance performance while reducing operational and compliance risks.

Key Manufacturing Use Cases for AI

Area of Operations	How AI Helps	Business Impact
Predictive maintenance	Identifies early signs of equipment failure	Fewer breakdowns and lower maintenance costs
Quality control	Detects defects using vision and pattern recognition	Reduced scrap and rework
Production planning	Adjusts schedules based on real-time conditions	Improved on-time delivery
Inventory management	Forecasts demand and material usage	Reduced excess inventory
Finance and administration	Automates data processing and validation	Lower manual effort and fewer errors

Driving Profitability Without Increasing Headcount

As labor availability becomes more constrained, manufacturers are seeking ways to grow without increasing headcount. AI supports this goal by capturing operational knowledge and embedding it into systems and processes.

Instead of relying solely on experienced workers to identify issues or optimize production, AI provides consistent, data-backed recommendations. This enables less-experienced employees to perform at a higher level while maintaining consistency across shifts and locations, an outcome that aligns well with ISO/IEC 42001’s emphasis on reliability, oversight, and controlled AI usage.

Workforce and Productivity Benefits

Challenge	Traditional Approach	AI-Enabled Approach
Labor shortages	Hire more staff or accept lower output	Increase productivity with existing teams
Knowledge gaps	Dependence on experienced employees	Insights embedded into systems
Inconsistent performance	Varies by shift or location	Standardized, data-driven decisions
Training time	Long ramp-up periods	Faster learning with AI guidance

Addressing Challenges Before Scaling AI

While AI offers significant benefits, successful adoption requires planning, governance, and alignment across the organization. This is where structured management systems, such as ISO/IEC 42001, play a critical role in helping organizations manage risk, data integrity, and accountability.

Common AI Adoption Challenges and Solutions

Challenge	Why It Matters	How Manufacturers Can Address It
Data quality	AI relies on accurate, consistent data	Clean and standardized data sources
Change management	Teams may resist new technology	Training and clear communication
Security and governance	Sensitive data must be protected	Strong controls and policies
Integration complexity	Systems may not easily connect	Start with targeted, high-impact use cases

A Practical Path to AI Adoption

Manufacturers do not need to deploy AI across the entire organization at once. A phased approach reduces risk and builds confidence, while ensuring AI systems remain aligned with organizational objectives and compliance expectations.

AI Adoption Roadmap

Stage	Focus	Outcome
Foundation	Prepare data and identify priority areas	Readiness for AI deployment
Pilot	Apply AI to a single process	Measurable proof of value
Expansion	Extend AI insights across teams	Broader operational improvements
Continuous improvement	Refine and scale AI initiatives	Long-term efficiency gains

The Bottom Line

AI is no longer an emerging concept in manufacturing, it is a practical tool delivering real improvements in efficiency, quality, and profitability. By focusing on optimization rather than disruption, manufacturers can achieve meaningful results without overhauling their operations.

At the same time, organizations must ensure AI is deployed responsibly. Certification to ISO/IEC 42001 demonstrates a structured approach to managing AI risks, ethics, and performance, helping manufacturers build trust with customers, regulators, and stakeholders as AI becomes more deeply embedded in operations.

About PJR

Perry Johnson Registrars (PJR) is an accredited certification body providing management system certification services across a wide range of international standards, including quality, environmental, information security, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

PJR supports organizations seeking ISO/IEC 42001 certification, helping them demonstrate responsible AI governance, risk management, and continuous improvement as AI adoption grows.

Website: www.pjr.com
Phone: (248) 422-3013
Email: pjr@pjr.com

Every November, groups and professionals worldwide celebrate World Quality Month. This month is for recognizing the importance of quality management and continuous improvement. It also honors the people who make it all happen.

At Perry Johnson, we believe that quality excellence is more than just a goal — it’s a way of thinking. Quality is what shapes great organizations, builds trust, and ensures success that lasts. Every industry, from healthcare to technology, relies on strong quality systems. Passionate quality professionals keep these systems improving and evolving.

Why Quality Management Matters

Strong quality management gives organizations the structure and consistency they need to succeed. It helps companies meet customer expectations, improve their processes, and stay competitive in a fast-changing world.

Quality management systems (QMS) are important because they create a quality culture. In this culture, everyone, from leaders to staff, takes responsibility for excellence. When quality becomes a shared value, it transforms how people work, communicate, and solve problems.

Behind every audit, certification, and customer success story are the professionals who make it all possible. Through dedication, training, and careful quality auditing, they help organizations reach new levels of organizational excellence. Whether through ISO certification or internal improvement programs, their work builds strong, reliable systems that deliver real results.

The Power of Continuous Improvement

At the heart of every successful organization is a commitment to continuous improvement. This means never standing still — constantly reviewing processes, learning from feedback, and finding new ways to do things better.

A focus on process improvement not only enhances performance but also helps prevent issues before they arise. It keeps teams motivated, encourages innovation, and strengthens long-term success.

At Perry Johnson, we view continuous improvement as the foundation of a true quality culture. Celebrating progress, learning from challenges, and building resilience through quality-driven decisions is what it’s about.

Recognizing Quality Professionals

World Quality Month is also a chance to honor the people who make quality their mission every day. Quality professionals — including auditors, managers, engineers, and coordinators — play an essential role in helping organizations meet and exceed quality standards.

Their work often happens behind the scenes, but their impact is everywhere. They ensure quality systems function effectively, that performance improvement remains a priority, and that every process contributes to overall excellence.

By celebrating their efforts, we’re also celebrating the teamwork, expertise, and care that keep organizations running smoothly.

Building a Strong Quality Culture

Creating and maintaining a quality culture doesn’t happen overnight — it’s a continuous effort. It starts with leadership commitment, open communication, and a shared belief that quality is everyone’s responsibility.

Encouraging employees to take ownership of their roles, share ideas, and focus on improvement helps organizations grow stronger together. Whether through employee training, internal reviews, or new quality management systems, every small step adds to lasting change.

When people feel empowered to improve, quality leadership thrives — and that’s when the best results happen.

Moving Forward with Quality in Mind

As we celebrate World Quality Month, let’s take a moment to reflect. We should think about how far we’ve come. We also need to consider the opportunities that are still ahead. Every improvement, no matter how small, contributes to a bigger picture — a world built on quality, integrity, and trust.

At Perry Johnson, we’re proud to support organizations that share this vision. By improving our Quality Management System, encouraging process improvements, and valuing quality professionals, we can raise standards in every industry.

Here’s to celebrating quality — not just this month, but every day of the year!

On February 28, 2025, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) published a revision to its Anti-Bribery Management System standard – ISO 37001.

Having completed an internal analysis of this revised standard and taking the necessary steps to implement its changes – PJR is pleased to announce we will be offering audits to ISO 37001:2025 starting on November 1, 2025.

The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) has published a binding transition timeline titled Mandatory Document (MD) 30. This document can be obtained for free on the IAF website (www.iaf.nu). IAF MD 30 has established that ISO 37001:2016 will be rendered obsolete and invalid on February 28, 2027.

In order to ensure a smooth transition for all of our current and future ISO 37001 clients we have established the following internal deadlines:

• We will cease offering ISO 37001:2016 certification audits on January 1, 2026;
• We will cease auditing to ISO 37001:2016 altogether on February 28, 2026;

Additionally, any certificate to ISO 37001:2016 that was issued on or after February 28, 2024, will be reissued showing a revised expiration date of February 28, 2027.

What Has Changed With ISO 37001?

While we recognize that this is an aggressive timeline, we are pleased to announce that the overall nature of changes to ISO 37001 are minimal. Here is a summary of the changes based on our analysis:

1. All references to “maintained documented information” and “retained documented information” have been eliminated in favor of statements that state the items “shall be available as documented information.”
2. All references to the “Anti-Bribery Compliance Function” now read as “Anti-Bribery Function.”
3. Section 3.30 – a new definition for the term “Anti-Bribery Culture.” This is part of the introduction of “culture” across the other ISO published standards.
4. Section 4 – no changes.
5. Section 5 – one new clause – 5.1.3 Anti-Bribery Culture. As written, this requirement doesn’t introduce anything truly new that wasn’t implicit in existing requirements.
6. Section 6 – one new clause – 6.3 Planning of Changes. This concept was inherent in other prior existing requirements.
7. Section 7 – multiple changes:
• Clause 7.2.2.1e – a new requirement that states personnel have to be made aware of the necessity to report potential and actual conflicts of interest.
• Clause 7.2.2.2b – a tweak to require that review of performance bonuses, performance targets, etc. be done at planned intervals (rather than “periodically” as it was before).
• Clause 7.3.1d and e – two new requirements indicating that personnel have to be made aware of anti-bribery procedures, the ABMS at large, and their duty to comply, as well as the benefits of reporting incidents.
• Clause 7.3.2 – new section header with existing content.
• Clause 7.3.3 – new section header with existing content.
• Clause 7.3.4 – a tweak to mandate that updates to training programs and refresher training both be done at planned intervals (rather than “periodically” as it was before).
8. Section 8 – two changes:
• Clause 8.1 – moves the language pertaining to externally provided processes/products/etc. from section 8.4 to section 8.1. The content is the same as it was under 8.4.
• Clause 8.4 – “mergers and acquisitions” has been added to the list of relevant activities where non-financial controls are needed.
9. Section 9 – a few changes:
• Clause 9.2.2 – this section has a new title and they’ve added “audit objectives” to the list of things that the organization has to determine.
• Clauses 9.2.3, 9.2.4, 9.3.2, 9.3.3 – each of these has a new section header with existing content.
• Clause 9.3.1 – merges the management review and governing body review sections. Clause 9.3.1 now has a second paragraph covering governing body reviews.
10. Section 10 – two changes:
• Clause 10.1 – new content pertaining to Continual Improvement intended to align to Annex SL.
• Clause 10.2 – a new section header with existing content.
11. Annex A5.2 – new guidance on “Anti-Bribery Culture”.
12. Annex A8.3.1 – new guidance on Conflicts of Interest.

As we hope you can see – the nature of what has changed is extremely minimal. When it becomes time for you to schedule your first ISO 37001:2025 audit PJR will send you a special document that you will need to complete ascertaining to your preparedness for the transition audit. We are pleased to announce that in most cases it will be possible for a client to complete their transition audit with no special additional audit time.

Most clients will find it optimal to complete their transition as part of their next regularly scheduled audit. However, we also recognize that some of our clients may wish to complete a special standalone transitional audit. If you choose to pursue this option, please bear in mind it will result in additional overall audit cost to your company.

PJR has been offering ISO 37001 audits for over 5 years, and we remain the only North American headquartered certification body with ANAB accreditation for this most unique certification program.

If you have any questions on ISO 37001, we invite you to contact us.

pjr@pjr.com
1-800-800-7910