Anthro-Engineering: Green Steel, Green Jobs

3-0-9 units. HASS-S · Undergraduate

Explores attempts to decarbonize steel production in a context of climate change while also thinking about how better jobs might be created. Contrasts historical approaches to steelmaking with contemporary decarbonization efforts. Considers the work and community life associated with historic steel regions and the kinds of policy frameworks needed to transition to green technologies that complement workers' abilities and enhance overall productivity rather than eliminate jobs. Co-taught by an engineer and an anthropologist in conjunction with an engineering/policy specialist at Carnegie Mellon. Includes case studies from Pittsburgh, Southeast Chicago, and China. Includes an optional field site visit to Pittsburgh and/or Southeast Chicago, and discussions with steel mill managers, union leaders, environmentalists, and local historians.