In October 1984, QIT announced the construction of a steel plant, a venture that would require major investments of $154 million. The news came as a surprise, since the timing seemed inappropriate. The steel market in North America was losing speed and the iron market was saturated. However, convinced that steel gave an added value to its iron operations, QIT forged ahead with its plans.

Two years later, in August 1986, the steel plant began operating. On November 19, 1986, a memorable day in the annals of QIT-Fer et Titane, the first steel billets were shipped to a customer. The following year, the steel powder unit was opened. QIT aimed its sights on the steel market, which now accounts for a significant share of its sales.