If student attendance at the 121st Metalcasting Congress is any indication, the future of the industry is strong. An impressive total of 150 students were at Congress in Milwaukee, which is believed to be a record. They participated in all facets of the event and impressed with their acumen and ability, highlighting what metalcasting can look forward to in the coming years.
“Increasing the size and scope of student attendance at Casting Congress was a win-win for both the Foundry Educational Foundation and the metalcasting industry,” said Brian Lewis, the executive director of FEF. “FEF continues to bring to the attention of our industry the importance of having university programs that develop technical talent for the metalcasting industry.”
A handful of students took part in a town hall-style meeting with then-AFS president Jeff Cook, the vice president, sales and marketing at Eagle Alloy (Muskegon, Michigan). During the discussion that took place at The Hub on the show floor, Cook and the students went over many topics. The experience left a lasting impression with Cook.
"I learned more from them than they ever will from me. The students and Future Leaders that attended the town hall were engaging, imaginative, outspoken and proud and any foundry would be lucky to have them as an employee someday,” Cook said. “AFS will continue to create opportunities for young professionals and students to interact with industry leaders to give them every chance possible to impress their future employer, and vice versa.”
Cook also had an explanation for why student turnout was so strong.
“They were directly engaged and encouraged to do so and they had events that were designed specifically for them such as the competitions, mixers, Student Chapter town hall and Foundry in a Box demonstrations,” Cook said. “They are networking more, spreading the message and feeling empowered to make a difference. AFS has done a great job taking advantage of opportunities to connect interested students with business professionals.”