“For nearly 20 years, Mark has been instrumental to AIST’s success, and it was wonderful to see him recognized with a Presidential Citation from Tom Toner (at AISTech 2025) in Nashville,” Ashburn said in a statement. 

Didiano’s retirement will come into effect at the end of September this year. 

Stacy Varmecky, a 25-year AIST employee, will transition to general manager of operations, overseeing membership, board services and office management including finance, human resources and information technology.

Brian Bliss, a 26-year AIST employee, will be named general manager of technology and continue to oversee industry-related technology and publication activities.

AIST also has welcomed John Ball as general manager of sales, effective 2 June. He will oversee commercial activities including sales and marketing while also evolving the company’s market analysis capabilities.

Ball most recently worked at commodities consultancy CRU, where he led regional operations, specializing in market analysis across the steel supply chain. He also has led consulting initiatives for the industry and worked closely with key industry association stakeholders. A U.S. Navy veteran, Ball has years of experience in the semiconductor, power and nuclear sectors. 

Ashburn said various staff roles and responsibilities will also transition throughout the next several months to align with the new configuration.
 
“The steel industry is entering a bold new era defined by groundbreaking innovation and unprecedented opportunity. A technological renaissance is reshaping the landscape, fueled by advances in decarbonization and digital transformation. For AIST members and everyone in the steel industry, the future has never looked more exciting, and we aim to position our staff leadership accordingly,” said Ashburn.