As the construction industry evolves to meet ambitious sustainability and climate goals, steel stands out as a key material for achieving net-zero buildings. This session will explore how steel’s unique properties—strength, durability, and recyclability—can drive innovation in sustainable building design and construction. Attendees will learn how to leverage advanced steel technologies and strategies to enhance energy efficiency, reduce embodied carbon, and support renewable energy integration. The session will highlight the role of insulated metal panels and reflective coatings in optimizing thermal performance, as well as the potential of solar-ready steel roofs to support on-site renewable energy systems. Finally, Amanda will share case studies of successful net-zero projects to demonstrate how steel solutions are being applied in real-world scenarios, showing practical insights and actionable strategies.

Learning Objectives:

• Apply strategies using insulated metal panels, cool roof technologies, and advanced coatings.
• Understand advancements in steel manufacturing, including low-carbon production methods and recycled content, to reduce embodied carbon.
• Design solar-ready steel roofs and incorporate on-site renewable energy solutions.
• Utilize steel’s recyclability, durability, and modular design to align with circular economy principles and minimize lifecycle environmental impact.
• Develop strategies for incorporating steel solutions into sustainable building projects, that meet LEED and other green certification standards.

Presenters:

Amanda Turner

Sustainability Specialist, Cornerstone Building Brands

Amanda Turner is a Sustainability Specialist specializing in integrating sustainable practices into design and construction. With a 15 year background in energy management and sustainability and a passion for driving environmental impact, Amanda works to advance the use of innovative strategies that enhance energy efficiency, reduce carbon footprints, and promote circular economy principles in metal buildings. Amanda has collaborated with architects, builders, and manufacturers to align metal building projects with green building certifications such as LEED, while advocating for renewable energy integration and low-carbon material solutions. A member of NAWIC Chapter #13, Amanda is committed to supporting the industry’s transition toward resilient, future-ready building solutions. As an active voice in sustainability education, Amanda has developed training materials to guide stakeholders in leveraging the unique advantages of metal buildings for achieving ambitious sustainability goals.