2025 Foundry Forward: HR Strategies for the Metalcasting Workforce Roundtable

American Family Field
August 12, 2025

Overview

The AFS Talent Development Divisions offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from your industry peers across both large and small foundries in the metalcasting sector. Whether you're managing a small family-owned business or part of a large corporate operation, you’ll gain valuable insights into how HR professionals in the metalcasting industry are using innovative technology, tackling talent acquisition challenges, and driving employee engagement. Beyond the valuable sessions, you'll have the chance to connect with fellow professionals during a fun and relaxed networking evening at the ballpark. Enjoy the Milwaukee Brewers versus Pittsburg Pirates and a delicious dinner buffet on the Johnsonville Party Deck with stadium seating with a view overlooking right-field plus parking passes all while sharing strategies and building relationships with those who understand the unique needs of the metalcasting workforce. Leave with actionable solutions and expanded connections that will help shape the future of HR in your organization.

Location

American Family Field
  • American Family Field
  • Milwaukee, WI
  • August 12, 2025
Get Directions

Hotel Information

Sonesta Milwaukee West
  • Sonesta Milwaukee West
  • Wauwatosa, WI
  • $109.00

Standard room rate of $109.00/night + tax. To make a reservation, by clicking the link below or by calling 414-475-9500 and mention the "American Foundry Society Roundtable" to get the group rate. The hotel’s check-in time is 4 p.m. Check-in prior to the hotel’s published check-in times are subject to availability. Check-out time is 11 a.m. Cancellations can be received 48 hours before time of the reservation will not be charged. Complimentary internet is provided for all hotel guests.

Room block cutoff date is July 14, 2025.

Travel Information

  • Parking – The Sonesta Milwaukee West has complimentary self-parking.
  • Shuttle Bus – Complimentary local shuttle within a 5-mile radius of the hotel. The shuttle will provide transportation to the ballpark and back to the Sonesta.

Conference Agenda

Tuesday, August 12, 2025
11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Registration and Lunch

(Included in registration fee)

12:15 – 5:10 p.m.
Roundtable Discussions
AI in the HR Space 

Discover how artificial intelligence is transforming HR practices:

  • Sourcing Candidates: Leverage AI to identify and attract top talent faster.
  • Job Descriptions: Automate and optimize job postings to target the best-fit candidates.
  • Policies and Legal Implications: Stay ahead of compliance challenges as AI evolves.
  • Ethical Risks: Address potential misuse of AI, such as fake documentation or fabricated claims. 
HR Technology

Unlock the power of innovative tech solutions:

  • Data Analytics: Turn data into actionable insights for better decision-making.
  • Unique Solutions: Explore tools like HR Text Lines to meet specific employee needs.
  • Employee Self-Service (ESS): Overcome adoption challenges and enhance user engagement. 
Progressive Perspectives 

Rethink traditional work practices to meet modern needs: 

  • Policy Innovation: Adapt bereavement and accrual policies for today's workforce.
  • Recognition Strategies: Reward long-serving employees creatively and meaningfully.
  • Motivation in a Changing Workplace: Innovate management styles to meet diverse employee expectations. 
Talent Acquisition 

Build a resilient, diverse workforce: 

  • Diversity Recruitment: Engage underrepresented groups, such as women in the foundry industry.
  • Employer Brand: Strengthen your company's reputation to attract top talent. 
Training and Development 

Empower your employees with continuous growth opportunities: 

  • Onboarding and Assimilation: Ensure new hires are set up for success.
  • Ownership of Development: Encourage employees to take charge of their own learning journey. 
Compensation and Benefits 

Design programs that foster satisfaction and retention: 

  • Tailored Choices: Offer customized benefits that resonate with your workforce.
  • Retention Strategies: Effectively address turnover due to wage-related concerns.
  • Exit Feedback: Learn from “No Call-No Show” trends to improve retention.
5:10 – 6 p.m.
Networking at Johnsonville Party Deck
6 – 6:40 p.m.
Dinner Buffet

(Included in registration fee)

6:40 p.m.
Milwaukee Brewers Versus Pittsburgh Pirates Game

(Included in registration fee)

Registration

Registration Fees

AFS member: $325.00 
Non-member: $487.50 
Guest for Dinner Buffet, Parking Pass and Ticket to Ballgame: $130.00 

Buy one registration, and get one registration 50% available for AFS members. Please contact AFS Customer service at 1-800-537-4237 and Customerservice@afsinc.org.

Cancellations & Substitutions

AFS presents a variety of technical and management conferences (in both in-person and virtual formats). The refund policy for AFS conferences is as follows: 1) Substitutions are accepted at no charge at any time up until the start of the conference; 2) Full refunds are offered if AFS is notified in writing of cancellation at least 30 days in advance of the conference. No refunds or credits are available for less than 30 days written notice.

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