The Iron and Steel Institute of Japan is a society of academe that works together for the sole purpose of improving and researching the iron and steel manufacturing industry of Japan. Their roster of members includes engineers, steel and iron experts, and researchers who have been working in the industry for years. Although they have a full calendar of events and activities, they don’t engage in a lot of press releases or publications to bring attention to their work. Much of their accomplishments are never seen in the forefront of the industry or from the point of view of consumers. In fact, it isn’t easy to be accepted as a member of this group. In most cases, one has to be invited to be a member and still submit to the rigorous demands of membership application.

The Institute only invites those who are researchers, engineers, or students who excel in the study, manufacture, or use of steel and iron materials. They should also have a keen interest in energy engineering and the current trend of being environment-conscious.

The Institute has 2 types of membership: domestic or foreign.

Domestic members can be Honorary, Patron, or Ordinary members. The Honorary Members are based on recommendations from the President for past work. The Patron Members are also recommended for membership by the president on the basis of donation to the Institute. Both types of members are not required to pay any fees or request for renewal of membership. The Ordinary Members are local Japanese who must apply and pay an entrance fee of 900 Yen. Their membership is only good for one year but is renewable upon re-application and payment of membership renewal.

The other types of Domestic Members are Senior Members, Associate Members, Student Members, and Sustaining Members.

Foreign Members are those who do not live in Japan. Once they move to Japan, they are automatically considered as potential Ordinary members and must apply as such. AS for members who leave the country, they are automatically given status of Foreign Member.

Being a member of the Institute allows one to know the latest technology, processes, research, and developments in the iron and steel industry. It is a highly technical institute that has received much respect from the Japanese steel industry.