Our Team
Michael Cowden, Editor-in-Chief
Editor-in-Chief of CRU’s Communities, including Steel Market Update and Aluminum Market Update, Michael has covered the steel industry since 2007. He specializes in flat-rolled steel but has also reported extensively on steel long products, pipe and tube, and aluminum markets. Before joining SMU, he worked as a reporter for Fastmarkets AMM in Chicago, the Associated Press in Pittsburgh, and The Cambodia Daily in Phnom Penh. Michael also held roles in copy editing and marketing at the University of Chicago Press. He holds a BA in English from the University of Chicago and an MSJ in Journalism from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism.
Nicholas Bell, Senior Editor
Nicholas brings over half a decade of experience covering metals markets, pricing trends, and supply chain dynamics. Prior to joining AMU, he reported on aluminum, high-temperature scrap, and ferro-alloy markets at Argus Media, with additional coverage of minor metals and rare earths. His work has built deep expertise in North American metals pricing and trade flows. A native of Houston, Nicholas holds a bachelor’s degree in Media Production and an MBA with a concentration in Finance, both from the University of Houston.
Greg Wittbecker, Senior Reporter and Editor
Veteran aluminum executive Greg brings over 40 years of leadership experience from Alcoa, Cargill, and CRU. He offers rare depth in commercial strategy, policy analysis, and industry evolution, with expertise spanning the trading floor to the boardroom.
Edward Meir, Senior Reporter and Editor
Edward brings more than a decade of hands-on experience in physical trading across aluminum, tin and scrap, paired with a deep fundamental market analysis background. His unique perspective strengthens AMU’s mission to deliver sharper insight, clearer context, and actionable intelligence for professionals across the aluminum value chain.
Stephanie Ritenbaugh, Reporter
Stephanie is an experienced business journalist, holding a variety of positions for trade publications and newspapers, including covering shale development for Gas Business Briefing/Platts and for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Ethan Bernard, Editor
Ethan has experience in financial copywriting and textbook publishing. He previously worked for American Metal Market as a copy editor in the New York for AMM’s daily publication and monthly magazine. He also holds a BA in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley and an MFA in Creative Writing from New York University.
Brett Linton, Operations Analyst
Brett brings more than a decade of steel industry experience, including roles as data analyst and production manager at Steel Market Update, and as category manager and director of strategic insights at Reibus International. He is a graduate of The University of North Georgia with a degree in Finance and Accounting.
Kaylee Turner, Sales and Marketing
Kaylee brings a dynamic marketing background with global experience, having started her career in Sydney, Australia. From fine jewelry marketing to advertising and account management, she has excelled in diverse roles. Currently serving as a content administrator at CRU Group, Kaylee is passionate about fostering connections among colleagues and creating a seamless and enjoyable work environment.
Luis Corona, Senior Account Executive
Luis brings broad sales experience across the real estate, steel, and market intelligence industries. Prior to joining Aluminum Market Update, he held roles as an account manager at a major steel tube and pipe supplier and as an account executive with a metals market information provider. Luis uses his industry knowledge to deliver tailored solutions that drive value for our customers.
Natalie Klaas, Senior Account Executive
Backed by a strong track record in sales and a reputation for building high-value partnerships, Natalie brings fresh energy and bold perspective to the steel industry. She is known for her sharp attention to detail and relentless commitment to client success.