Steel Industry Powerhouse Returns as Title Sponsor of Texas Auto Writers Association Truck Rodeo

DALLAS --- Aug. 19, 2015: The Steel Market Development Institute (SMDI), a business unit of the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), returns as title sponsor of the 2015 Texas Truck Rodeo. The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) truck rodeo brings journalists from throughout Texas and the U.S. to evaluate the nation's top trucks and SUVs and choose the coveted "Truck of Texas." The event will be held Oct. 8-10 at the Knibbe Ranch outside San Antonio.

"We are thrilled to have SMDI return as title sponsor for this year's truck rodeo," said Michael Marrs, president of TAWA. "Since steel is an integral part of the automotive industry, we are fortunate to have SMDI partner with us to keep members updated on the industry. This year's event is shaping up to be the best yet."

"We're also proud to announce Michelin and BFGoodrich Tires as official lunch sponsors for the 2015 TAWA Truck Rodeo. Representatives from both tire brands will be on hand to talk about their new truck and SUV tire offerings. They may also have some amazing door prizes to give away at these lunches," said Marrs.

Lawrence W. Kavanagh, president, SMDI, said, "Texans buy more trucks than residents of any other state in the U.S. They understand the need for a truck to provide the highest value. By sponsoring the Texas Truck Rodeo, SMDI and its members can share how advanced high-strength steel provides the value Texans look for."

TAWA has promoted professionalism and quality in automotive journalism, producing two annual events that have gained national traction: the Texas Truck Rodeo and the Texas Auto Roundup at Texas Motor Speedway. These events give TAWA's journalists the opportunity to evaluate vehicles back-to-back on the street, track or off-road. Manufacturers and dealerships promote the award winners and the "Truck of Texas" is touted in national television commercials.

Each year, TAWA awards scholarships to Texas college students who major in journalism, while their Excellence in Craft Competition recognizes exceptional coverage of the automotive industry by members.

SMDI increases and defends the use of steel by developing innovative materials, applications and value-added solutions for customers in the automotive, construction and packaging markets. SMDI automotive investors include: AK Steel Corporation, ArcelorMittal Dofasco, ArcelorMittal USA, Nucor Corporation and United States Steel Corporation. For more information on SMDI, visit Steel or follow @DriveUsingSteel on Twitter.