Breaking New Ground in Youngstown: Local Strength, Global Ambition
Youngstown, Ohio – November 10, 2025: Vallourec Inaugurates Its New Premium Threading Line
Teaser: In the heart of America’s steel country, Vallourec has reached a major milestone with the inauguration of its new premium threading line in Youngstown, Ohio. This 48-million-dollar investment reinforces the Group’s long-standing commitment to manufacturing and innovation in the United States.
The event brought together employees from the Youngstown site and numerous distinguished guests, including Vallourec leadership, Philippe Guillemot, CEO, Bertrand Frischmann, COO, Jacky Massaglia, SVP North America, and Gary Hauck, Multisite Manufacturing Executive Leader, Ohio, as well as key public officials: Ohio Governor Mike DeWine; Congressman Michael Rulli; Youngstown Mayor Jamael Tito Brown; and key representatives from JobsOhio, Lake to River Economic Development, and the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber.
The atmosphere was both warm and purposeful, a blend of industrial pride and community spirit.
A Strategic Investment for the Future
“This investment is more than just a number,” said Philippe Guillemot. “It’s a promise to our customers, our employees, and the Youngstown community. When the conditions are right and partnerships are strong, we invest.”
The new threading line, integrated into Vallourec’s existing manufacturing, rolling, and finishing operations, will increase production capacity for high-torque VAM® connections, key components in the U.S. shale gas industry. Once operational, the facility is expected to create 40 full-time equivalent jobs, boost the local supply chain, support the regional energy sector, and strengthen Ohio’s industrial ecosystem.
A key Milestone for Vallourec in North America
The ceremony was marked by a powerful image: all officials and Vallourec leaders standing side by side, shovels raised high, breaking ground together for the plant’s expansion. This symbolic gesture reflected a shared commitment to growth and collaboration.
“Youngstown is more than just a production site. It’s a cornerstone of our presence in North America,” emphasized Jacky Massaglia. “This project reflects our commitment to local communities and our ambition to build a sustainable, locally rooted industry.”
Construction of the new line began in July 2025 and is expected to be completed by early 2027, with no disruption to ongoing operations.
Guests had the opportunity to tour the plant, interact with engineers and operators, and discover the advanced technologies that will drive Vallourec’s next phase of operations in the U.S.
Circular Economy and Industrial Excellence
The event also highlighted Vallourec’s circular approach: all seamless tubes produced in the U.S. are made from 100% recycled steel, with a recycling rate among the highest in the world, reaching 98%.
As the energy industry evolves, Vallourec continues to innovate with sustainable, high-performance solutions. The Youngstown expansion embodies this ambition: local, clean, and built to last.
“This new line strengthens our industrial competitiveness in the U.S. while meeting the growing technical demands of the OCTG market,”said Bertrand Frischmann. “It’s a strategic step forward, built on our expertise and our ability to innovate locally.”
Recognizing Vallourec Teams
The event concluded with a key moment honoring Vallourec’s teams. Their expertise, dedication, and collective commitment were widely praised. More than the launch of a new production line, this event celebrated the journey shared and the collective momentum driving Vallourec employees toward future challenges.
Three questions to Jacky Massaglia, SVP North America
What does this investment mean for Vallourec’s customers and partners in North America?
“This investment is a new step forward in strengthening our industrial footprint in the U.S. But it is not only about expanding our capabilities, it’s also about delivering more value to our customers and partners. It reflects our commitment to innovation, quality, and trust. By integrating a new premium threading line into our existing operations, we can offer a fully domestic, competitive manufacturing route. This development also marks a major milestone in Vallourec’s long-standing commitment to the United States, serving industrial excellence and innovation at the heart of the energy sector.”
How will this new threading line transform local operations in Youngstown?
“By integrating the new premium threading line into our existing steel making, rolling, and finishing operations, we will increase capacity for VAM® high-torque connections like the VAM® SPRINT series, which are essential for today’s complex onshore wells. This means greater competitiveness and more flexibility for our customers. Beyond technology, this expansion is expected to create 40 new jobs, a stronger local supply chain, and a boost to the regional energy ecosystem. By expanding our operations, we’re supporting local suppliers, and helping maintain Ohio’s technological leadership in steel and energy production.”
Why is this milestone strategic for Vallourec and its teams?
“This event was more than groundbreaking. It was a celebration of partnership, community, and a shared vision for the future. At the core of this initiative is our commitment to excellence and innovation, supported by the expertise of our teams in Youngstown and across North America. This investment strengthens our ability to deliver high-performance solutions and reinforces Vallourec’s role as a trusted partner in the energy sector.”
