Casting the Future: Ianto Woolridge’s Journey into Metalcasting with FEF

Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship & Learning (METAL) partners with the Foundry Educational Foundation (FEF) to help build the next generation of talent in U.S. manufacturing.

Established in 1947, FEF is the liaison between students, educators and industry leaders, ensuring young engineering talent enters the metalcasting industry. Today, it continues that mission by supporting scholarships, engineering programs and internships that shape the next generation of professionals in the field.

As part of this partnership, FEF has placed 24 interns from 10 universities in its first program phase and secured multiple industry partners to develop 10 more internships.

FEF Interns work on real-world projects, assist with student outreach and gain critical networking opportunities that help shape their careers.

Meet Ianto Woolridge

Through our collaboration with FEF, METAL supports students like Ianto Woolridge, a freshman at Virginia Tech majoring in Materials Science and Engineering.

As part of FEF’s internship placement program, FEF placed Ianto at Virginia Tech as a foundry intern specializing in investment casting using 3D-printed expendable molds. His regular duties include setting up gating, creating molds around cast patterns and sintering molds under the direction of Virginia Tech foundry director Dr. Alan P. Druschitz.

Woolridge joined FEF in the Fall of 2024 and has since gained valuable insights and direction for his future career. Here’s what he said about how his FEF program experience has shaped his academic and professional goals.

Q: Tell us about your experience in metalcasting since joining the FEF program.

A: The FEF internship was my first real exposure to metalcasting and it’s been such a valuable experience. I joined the program in the fall of my freshman year. At that time, I had no idea what to expect. I knew I was interested in materials science, but I hadn’t explored the practical side of how those materials are used in manufacturing. Getting into the foundry for the first time was eye-opening. I saw firsthand how raw materials are transformed into usable products and that hands-on experience helped me understand the purpose behind what I’m learning in class. It was a huge shift from theory to practice and sparked a genuine interest in metalcasting.

Q: What essential skills have you learned from your time in the university foundry lab?

A: One of the biggest things I’ve developed is my problem-solving ability, especially under real-world conditions. In the foundry, things don’t always go according to plan. Whether it’s issues with temperature control, molds, or unexpected results in the casting process, I learned how to stay calm and work through challenges methodically. I also developed better communication skills. I leaned heavily on seniors in the foundry who had more experience and they were incredibly supportive. Collaborating with them taught me to ask the right questions, learn from feedback and troubleshoot effectively. I know I’ll take these skills with me into any engineering or professional setting.

Q: How do you see your metalcasting experiences influencing your career path?

A: When I first came to Virginia Tech, my plan was straightforward: get a degree, go to graduate school, earn a PhD and work in a research lab. But the FEF experience shifted my perspective. Working in the foundry made me realize that I prefer hands-on, outdoor work where I can physically interact with materials and processes. I enjoy the energy of the foundry, the teamwork and the tangible outcomes. While I still value academic research, I now see myself pursuing a more applied role in the industry—something that blends engineering with real-time problem-solving and production.

Examples of Ianto Woolridge’s work as part of the Virgina Tech FEF Program

Q: In what ways has FEF supported your academic and industry experiences?

A: FEF has made a significant impact on both my education and my confidence as a student. Because I had early exposure to real casting and manufacturing techniques, I’ve felt more prepared and less intimidated by my coursework – especially in classes like manufacturing, where we’re expected to understand casting principles. That’s been a game changer for me. It’s one thing to study manufacturing, but it’s another to see and do it for yourself. FEF allowed me to apply what I’m learning and to connect the dots between theory and practice.

Q: What message would you share with supporters of FEF who help make these opportunities possible?

A: I can’t thank FEF and its supporters enough. Without the scholarship and the opportunity to get involved early in the foundry, I probably wouldn’t have discovered how much I enjoy this type of work. It’s not just about the financial support – though that certainly helps – it’s about being given a space to learn and explore. Because of this program, I’ve explored options for a future career after graduation. I hope donors and industry partners continue to invest in FEF because their impact on students like me is life-changing.

Q: What would you say to other students or the general public who may not be aware of opportunities in metalcasting or manufacturing?

A: There’s a gap in awareness. Many students go into engineering just thinking about high-paying jobs, but they often overlook careers in metallurgy or manufacturing. These fields are essential to the U.S. economy but don’t get the visibility they deserve. Programs like FEF help change that by exposing students to what these careers look like. They show us that hands-on, high-technology work in these industries can be just as impactful and rewarding as more traditional engineering paths.

Learn more about FEF’s programs and its mission here: https://www.fefinc.org/

Virtual Reality Meets Metallurgy: The Future of Defense Training is Here

To address the growing need for skilled workers in the U.S. industrial base, the Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship & Learning (METAL) program collaborates with universities to offer immersive bootcamps that equip participants with essential skills in metallurgy and manufacturing. One unique offering during these bootcamps is virtual reality-based foundry tours.

The tours complement the bootcamps’ hands-on training in critical skill areas like casting, sandblasting, and forging metals. This fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation ensures that graduates are well-prepared to contribute to advancing national defense and other critical sectors.

Bringing Advanced Manufacturing to Life Through VR

The University of Tennessee and IACMI developed the virtual reality modules to enhance STEM education by immersing users in advanced composites manufacturing. Modules cover processes like carbon fiber production, sheet molding compound, extrusion, long fiber thermoplastic production, extrusion-compression molding, injection molding, pultrusion, and roll forming.

Students view metal casting through virtual reality at a foundry in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Uday Vaidya, Chief Technology Officer at IACMI, said these virtual reality modules are especially vital to provide immersive learning experiences and generate students’ interest in the metallurgical field.

“The virtual reality foundry is a very powerful one, not all K-12 students have the time to go to the foundry, ” said Vaidya.” “By viewing it on VR, it’s literally like being there. You’re going to basically see things like you’re on the floor, watching metal pour, big presses coming down on blocks of hot metal, you can almost feel the effects of the temperature and pressure. There’s nothing like experiencing it as close to the real world as possible.”

Uday Vaidya, Chief Technology Officer at IACMI, demonstrates virtual reality modules at a foundry in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Led by IACMI–The Composites Institute, METAL addresses critical workforce shortages in the U.S. casting and forging industry. Between now and 2028, the defense industrial base is projected to require at least 122,000 more professionals, including shipbuilders, engineers, and other essential roles supporting the Department of Defense. A shortfall in meeting this demand could pose a serious risk to the strength and security of U.S. national defense.

Vaidya said he’s incredibly grateful to the Department of Defense for funding METAL initiatives and hopes programs like these can support DOD and IACMI’s goal of reaching up to 100,000 students.

Learn more about METAL’s mission and our free online training here.

How a METAL Bootcamp Inspired Jaeger Group’s Leap into Casting

Walt and Janelle Jaeger, the dynamic husband-and-wife team behind Jaeger Technology Group, are no strangers to innovation. With more than 16 years of experience in 3D printing across industries ranging from medical to aerospace, Walt recently made a bold decision: to stop working for others and build a business on his terms. Today, Jaeger Tech Group is not only pushing the boundaries of additive manufacturing but also becoming a key player in reshoring American manufacturing, modernizing legacy practices with automation, and contributing to the national defense supply chain.

Their journey recently took a pivotal turn when the couple joined the METAL bootcamp at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, becoming the first industry professionals to participate in the program. What happened next was transformative.

“Everything they showed us in the class, we went right back to a couple hours later and began applying,” Walt said. “In the last several weeks, we’ve managed to find $20K worth of work since we participated.”

Reimagining What’s Possible with Advanced Manufacturing

Jaeger Technology Group operates out of a compact 1,400-square-foot shop in the Huntsville/Birmingham area—yet their capabilities rival much bigger firms thanks to their large-format 3D printers and relentless creativity.

“We’ve been doing primarily polymer but because of METAL, we’re moving into metals, waxes, patterns,” he said. “And now we’re 3D printing castable parts that we used to source overseas.”

That shift is significant. One example: an appliance manufacturer had been paying $5,000 per unit to machine aluminum-silicon alloy parts in a five-axis setup. The Jaegers had previously outsourced this work to China due to cost. But Walt and Janelle brought the part into the METAL bootcamp, semi-successfully cast it during the session, and found a path forward that keeps the work—and the dollars—here in the U.S.

“That has changed the rules for us,” he said. “We’re probably going to invest in a couple of robots and build a small investment casting shop right here within our four walls.”

Walt’s passion for American manufacturing is deeply personal. He recalls the painful lesson his father—a brilliant engineer—learned when the tides of offshoring shifted the playing field.

“My dad was in semiconductor manufacturing, and he was a tremendously sharp guy but unlucky,” he shared. “He built a semiconductor manufacturing facility in New Boston, Texas, about 40 years ago. It took about a year to get everything rolling and by the time it was ready, Taiwan could make and sell these things for cheaper. It wrecked him.”

That story is more than family history. It’s a driving force behind Jaeger Group’s mission today.

“We’ve been sending out manufacturing all over the world for decades,” he said, “saying we’re just going to be a service economy. The problem is all the service jobs are disappearing too. If we want to be the kind of world that people can raise a family in and be able to provide, we have to turn back to manufacturing.”

A Faster, Smarter Foundry

Jaeger Group’s facility, lean but equipped, illustrates how 3D printing is radically changing traditional manufacturing timelines.

“What used to take several months, we’re going to try to do in a week or two,” Walt explained, describing a ductile iron casting they’re developing for a major industrial client. “It’s one thing to make it, and another to make it right.”

The team now has four large-format printers that can handle parts up to 24x24x24 inches—critical for reshoring efforts that require flexibility, speed, and quality.

Walt speaks with conviction about the need to bring manufacturing back home, and he’s not just talking about it – he’s doing it.

The METAL Difference

Walt is clear that METAL played a key role in this evolution. He emphasized the practical nature of the training—applicable immediately to real-world projects—and praised the program’s impact on inspiring the next generation.

“We were the only business owners at the bootcamp, but what’s exciting is that we have young people looking at this,” he said. “They don’t have to work at large foundries; you can have little casting shops like the one I have that do very small parts and probably be very successful.”

Scaling Smart with Automation

Walt’s forward-thinking mindset doesn’t stop with 3D printing. With a background in automation, he’s already planning to integrate robotics into his shop.

“I got trained on every robot I could,” he said, explaining that he received the training for free at the Alabama Industrial Development Training center. “These four-day courses can do everything you need to hit the ground running. I’m more likely to buy two or three robots and train someone, rather than try to hire someone with experience.”

For Walt, automation is not a job killer—it’s an enabler. A way to scale a lean operation and meet the increasing demand for complex, cast metal parts right here on U.S. soil.

Whether it’s a water reducer, a crisper drawer mold, or small, detailed jewelry parts, Jaeger Group is proving just how fast a business can pivot when given the right tools, training, and inspiration.

Walt and Janelle’s story is a case study in what’s possible when modern technology meets an old-school work ethic. It’s also a powerful endorsement of METAL’s role in transforming not just careers, but industries.

About METAL

Led by IACMI – The Composites Institute® with funding from the Department of Defense’s Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment Program, METAL strengthens and diversifies the U.S. metal manufacturing workforce, focusing on casting, forging and plate rolling. The program offers bootcamps, workshops, apprenticeships and more.

Training Tomorrow’s Defense Experts: Inside the UTK METAL Bootcamp

In the world of manufacturing, metallurgy is more than just a technical skill—it’s the backbone of industries like aerospace, defense, and renewable energy. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) is one university leading the charge to fill the growing skills gap in this essential field through its partnership with Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship & Learning (METAL). The university conducted its second METAL bootcamp during spring break, March 17-25, 2025.

METAL is a workforce development initiative led by IACMI-The Composites Institute that aims to address critical shortages in the U.S industrial base. Hands-on METAL bootcamps not only help train the next generation of manufacturers, but also ignite a passion for metalworking in participants.

“I think that this bootcamp is extremely valuable because you really don’t have access to this type of equipment, especially as a student,” said Adry Lain, a University of Tennessee Mechanical Engineering student who participated in the UTK METAL bootcamp. “So, being able to come here and get this level of experience is something you wouldn’t be able to see anywhere else, really.”

Hands-On Learning Opportunities

METAL bootcamps tap into participants’ talents and interests. From art students to engineering majors, bootcamp attendees dive into the world of metallurgy, gaining invaluable experience and forging connections across disciplines.

The recent five-day bootcamp at the University of Tennessee Art and Architecture building allowed students to cast aluminum into 3-D printed sand molds, cast bronze into sand resin molds, conduct machining and sand blasting and participate in a virtual reality foundry tour. They also engaged in discussions with the Foundry Education Foundation and Steel Founders Society of America.

“The different types of casting that we’re doing range from sand to plaster to different types of investment molding, so we’re really getting a full spectrum of the type of casting that we’re seeing here,” Lain said. “Bronze is an insanely high temperature cast. It’s closer to steel than anything else, so when we’re doing bronze, this is the real deal, unlike just doing aluminum casting at home. It’s a really fun and friendly environment to learn in.”

The experience empowered students to understand metallurgy and participate in cutting-edge industry advancements. These skills are not only crucial for industries like defense manufacturing but also contribute to the broader goals of technological innovation and industrial advancement.

Why METAL Matters

As industries across the globe turn to advanced manufacturing to drive innovation, skilled metalworkers are in high demand.

Programs like METAL bootcamps are integral to developing a talented workforce to advance critical fields, including defense technology and sustainable infrastructure.

According to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), the U.S. is projected to face a shortfall of 2.1 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030, with a deficit of 383,000 skilled workers needed to support industries like casting and forging.

These shortages put critical defense capabilities – like U.S. Navy shipbuilding – at risk. By nurturing a skilled workforce to meet the nation’s needs, METAL for America helps keep America’s defense base strong.

Learn more about the METAL Movement

Whether you’re a student exploring career options, a professional looking to reskill, or someone passionate about the intersection of art and engineering, METAL has something for you. Stay updated on future bootcamps and other educational opportunities by visiting MetalforAmerica.org and following us on social media.

Teknovation: Forging the Future | METAL Bootcamp tackles skilled labor shortage in U.S. Defense industry

Original source: Teknovation

Participants explored the skills needed to pursue careers in metalwork that support the U.S. manufacturing of critical materials.

Experts in casting and forging are necessary for the well-being, efficiency, and reliability of the United States Defense. While it may not be the industry most people immediately think of, these workers are the ones behind 92 percent of specialized end items used in defense platforms—including ships, submarines, aircraft, and ground combat vehicles. As an example, The U.S. Navy has already documented challenges in its casting and forging capacity, which have impacted shipbuilding.

Furthermore, our country is projected to face a shortfall of 2.1 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030, with a deficit of 383,000 skilled workers needed to support industries like casting and forging.

Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeships and Learning (METAL) is tackling the problem locally through a boot camp at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK). METAL is led by IACMI – the Composites Institute, which is headquartered in Knoxville.

Read the full original story here.

UT Art and Engineering Partner To Address Pressing Workforce Shortage in National Defense Manufacturing

Original source: University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is helping train the next generation of innovators in casting and forging. Casting and forging industries play a critical role in U.S. manufacturing, especially in the defense sector.

UT is hosting its second METAL casting bootcamp this week, a unique collaboration between IACMI — The Composites Institute and UT’s School of Art and Tickle College of Engineering. Twelve participants — some college undergraduate students and some mid-career professionals — are getting a hands-on introduction to metallurgy, a field crucial to a broad range of industries including defense manufacturing, as they gain valuable technical skills in metal properties, heat treatment processes and advanced manufacturing techniques.

Read the full original story here.

WVLT: UTK hosts ‘METAL’ bootcamp to help with national defense manufacturing

Original source: WVLT

By Kelly Ann Krueger

Published: Mar. 20, 2025 at 7:59 PM EDT

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Some of the most important jobs for the U.S. could be filled by people attending the METAL bootcamp at the University of Tennessee this week.

METAL stands for metallurgical, engineering, trades, apprenticeships and learning.

The military said the country is facing more than two million unfilled jobs by 2030.

These jobs rely on skilled labor like casting and forging on military equipment like ships, submarines, aircraft and combat vehicles.

This boot camp aims to find the next generation of staff.

“The METAL bootcamp reflects UT’s steadfast commitment to combining the strengths of our nationally renowned research and unique workforce training programs to meet regional and national needs,” said Deb Crawford, vice chancellor for research, innovation and economic development.

The bootcamp gives people hands-on learning about metal properties, heat treatment process, and advanced manufacturing techniques.

Watch the full coverage on WVLT here.

METAL and ACE Shine at DMC 2024: Building a Resilient Workforce for Defense Manufacturing

The Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeships & Learning (METAL) and America’s Cutting Edge (ACE) teams attended the 2024 Defense Manufacturing Conference (DMC) in Austin, Texas, from December 2–5. These IACMI-led workforce development programs are pivotal to addressing the growing need for skilled talent in casting, forging, CNC machining, and other advanced manufacturing fields.

Our presence at DMC underscored IACMI’s commitment to strengthening the U.S. defense industrial base!

Why Workforce Development Matters to the Defense Industrial Base

DMC is the premier annual event for defense manufacturing, bringing together leaders from government, industry, and academia to explore cutting-edge technologies, workforce challenges, and innovative solutions. With the defense manufacturing sector heavily reliant on a skilled and adaptable workforce, the conference presented an unparalleled opportunity for METAL and ACE to share their mission, forge new connections, and gather insights to refine their impact.

According to a DMC panel focused on workforce development, there will be 4.6 million open manufacturing jobs in the next decade. This eye-opening number underscores the importance of reaching the next generation to revitalize America’s manufacturing talent pipeline.

“DMC 2024 was an incredible opportunity to connect with industry leaders who share our commitment to building a stronger, more resilient workforce,” said METAL Workforce Manager Lucinda Curry. “The conversations we had reaffirmed that programs like METAL and ACE are essential. By working together, we can tackle workforce shortages head-on, inspire the next generation, and make sure the talent is there to keep defense manufacturing moving forward.”

Highlights from DMC 2024

IACMI and Partner Speakers
- IACMI CTO Dr. Uday Vaidya spoke on a panel with other leaders in the metallurgical industry, highlighting the various initiatives METAL focuses on, including K-12 curriculum, adult hands-on bootcamps, engineering internships, and apprenticeship development with employers.
- Technical Director for Metallurgy and Manufacturing for the Innovation Capability and Modernization (ICAM) Office in the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Resilience Matt Draper spoke on the importance of the defense industrial base and the federal investments made to help manufacturers grow their engineering, artisan and skilled trades workforce to support and innovate as they strive to provide the warfighter with the best in critical equipment, armaments, and supplies.
Spotlighting Workforce Solutions:
Attendees learned about our unique training and apprenticeship programs tailored to the critical needs of defense manufacturing. From forging and casting to CNC machining, metrology, and cybersecurity, METAL and ACE deliver hands-on education and online modules that align directly with Department of Defense and industry requirements.
Expanding Partnerships:
Our conversations with industry leaders and educational institutions focused on co-developing programs, integrating advanced technologies into curricula, and scaling our initiatives nationwide. Partnerships forged at DMC will play a vital role in shaping the future of workforce development.
Exploring Emerging Trends:
By participating in sessions on advanced manufacturing technologies and defense-specific needs, we gained invaluable insights to keep our programs aligned with the rapidly evolving landscape of defense manufacturing.
Inspiring Future Innovators:
A highlight of our booth was the InnoCrate kits, which bring composites and metallurgy concepts to K-12 classrooms. These kits are designed to spark curiosity and interest in manufacturing careers at an early age, ensuring a robust pipeline of talent for the future.

What’s Next for METAL and ACE?

DMC 2024 reaffirmed the critical role of workforce development in ensuring the U.S. maintains its edge in defense manufacturing. Equipped with new knowledge and strengthened relationships, METAL and ACE are more committed than ever to expanding our programs and partnerships.

The conference was a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. Our participation not only amplified our mission but also emphasized the collective effort required to sustain and grow a resilient manufacturing workforce. Thank you to all who connected with us at DMC—we look forward to continuing the conversation and building the future together.

Stay tuned for more updates on our work and partnerships as we continue to forge a stronger defense industrial base!

Jobs for the Future Partners with Two West Virginia Manufacturers to Strengthen Defense Industrial Base Through Apprenticeships

Strategic initiative aims to develop critical manufacturing workforce in West Virginia

Huntington, W. Va. (Nov. 22, 2024) — Jobs for the Future (JFF), a national nonprofit that drives transformation in U.S. education and workforce systems, has announced a partnership with WVA Manufacturing, LLC and Steel of West Virginia, Inc. to develop apprenticeship programs through the Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship & Learning (METAL) program. Led by IACMI – the Composites Institute® with support from the Defense Department’s Innovation Capability and Modernization (ICAM) Office, METAL strengthens and diversifies the U.S. metal manufacturing workforce, focusing on casting, forging, and plate rolling.

“These partnerships represent a strategic investment in America’s industrial capabilities,” said JFF Vice President of Center for Apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning Vinz Koller. “By developing skilled workers in critical materials manufacturing, we’re strengthening both local economies and national security.”

As a METAL partner, JFF leads the program’s apprenticeship efforts, providing $36,000 in funding and technical support to launch training pathways at WVA Manufacturing and Steel of West Virginia. WVA Manufacturing, in Alloy, WV, will receive $24,000 to support 10 registered apprentices and 12 pre-apprentices in trades like Industrial Maintenance Mechanics, Electricians, and Machinists.

Steel of West Virginia, based in Huntington, WV, will receive $12,000 for a pre-apprenticeship program leading to a registered apprenticeship for three participants. Partnering with Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center (MAMC), Steel of West Virginia will offer expert instruction through MAMC’s new DOL-sponsored national training center.

“West Virginia’s manufacturing sector is vital to both our national security and local economies,” said Lucinda Curry, METAL National Workforce Manager. “Through these apprenticeship programs, we’re not just creating jobs – we’re building careers and strengthening America’s industrial base. The combination of competitive wages, comprehensive training, and clear advancement pathways makes these programs particularly impactful for our communities.”

Both programs feature:

Competitive starting wages with progressive growth
Comprehensive classroom and hands-on training
Clear career advancement pathways
Support for essential tools and training equipment
Program registration sponsored under Apprenticeship Works at MAMC

The programs specifically target critical workforce needs in Appalachia, offering local residents opportunities for high-paying careers in advanced manufacturing. WVA Manufacturing employs 250 people in Fayette County, and SWVA operates essential steel-making facilities in Cabell County.

These pilot programs serve as models for workforce development across the manufacturing sector. METAL plans to expand these structured apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs to additional facilities and occupations. The programs aim to create a blueprint for addressing critical workforce needs that can be replicated by manufacturers across the country, helping to strengthen America’s manufacturing capabilities while creating sustainable career pathways in local communities.

“These apprenticeship programs demonstrate our commitment to developing skilled manufacturing workers in regions where these opportunities are crucial for economic development,” added Koller. “By investing in workforce development, we’re helping ensure America maintains its manufacturing capabilities in critical materials and technologies.”

For more information about the METAL program or apprenticeship opportunities, visit MetalforAmerica.org.

About Jobs for the Future (JFF)
Jobs for the Future (JFF) drives transformation of the U.S. education and workforce systems to achieve equitable economic advancement for all.

About IACMI:

IACMI-The Composites Institute® is a 170-plus member community of industry, colleges and universities, national laboratories, and government agencies working together to benefit the nation’s energy, manufacturing, and economic security. IACMI is managed by the Collaborative Composite Solutions Corporation (CCS), a not-for-profit organization established by The University of Tennessee Research Foundation. A Manufacturing USA institute, IACMI is supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Materials Manufacturing Technologies Office, as well as key state and industry partners.

JFF Webinars: Strengthening America’s Manufacturing Workforce

The Department of Defense, in collaboration with the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation (IACMI) and Jobs For the Future (JFF), is launching an exciting series of webinars under the Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeships & Learning (METAL) program. This initiative aims to strengthen America’s manufacturing workforce by developing skilled talent through innovative training methods and strong industry partnerships.

Join us in shaping the future of America’s metallurgy and metals manufacturing workforce. Register below today for our upcoming webinars and be part of the conversation that drives the future of manufacturing.

The METAL Learning Webinar Series is designed to provide insights into apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and work-based learning models, specifically in the casting and forging industries. These webinars will help participants understand how to scale these models to meet the needs of the industrial base, ensuring the readiness and resilience of our defense capabilities.

“We need active engagement to ensure our future efforts are grounded in the needs of the industrial base,” said Matt Draper, Technical Director for Metallurgy and Manufacturing at the Department of Defense. “This series will provide opportunities for all participants to learn, share experiences, and strategize for workforce development in a collaborative environment.”

Why Attend?

This series is a unique opportunity for organizations, industry leaders, and stakeholders to come together to explore the benefits of work-based learning and apprenticeship models. Participants will not only learn about innovative workforce training strategies but also contribute to discussions that shape the future of America’s metallurgy and metals manufacturing workforce. The collaboration with JFF, a national leader in workforce development, ensures that these programs are aligned with equitable career opportunities and industry innovation.

Webinar Schedule

METAL Webinar 1: Introduction to Work-Based Learning in Manufacturing and Metallurgy

October 15, 2024 | 4:00-5:00 pm ET

JFF’s Work-Based Learning Framework emphasizes the mutual benefits of work-based learning (WBL) for companies and trainees. Companies can develop talent tailored to their needs, while trainees gain hands-on experience and valuable skills. Learn how your company can develop and implement WBL programs and discover the value of training your own workforce.

METAL Webinar 2: Developing Skills through Pre-Apprenticeship Programs

November 18, 2024 | 4:00-5:00 pm ET

JFF’s Framework for High-Quality Pre-Apprenticeships explores the benefits and structure of pre-apprenticeship programs. Learn how to determine if a pre-apprenticeship is the right fit for you and gain insights from successful case studies of effective models. Discover how these programs can provide valuable skills and pathways to full apprenticeships and long-term careers.

METAL Webinar 3: Registered Apprenticeships 101
December 17, 2024 | 4:00-5:00 pm ET

This webinar provides an overview of the U.S. Registered Apprenticeship (RA) system, covering the core components of all RA programs. Learn the essential steps for developing an apprenticeship program and discover how RA can benefit both employers and workers by fostering skill development and career advancement.

Note: Session dates and registration links for the following webinars will be included in follow-up emails

These webinars are a valuable opportunity for anyone involved in the casting and forging industries to gain knowledge, share insights, and help shape the future of the manufacturing workforce. Organizations are encouraged to share this invitation with their networks and relevant stakeholders to maximize impact.

METAL Partners with Jobs for the Future, Foundry Educational Foundation to Bolster U.S. Defense Workforce

The Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship & Learning (METAL) program has formed partnerships with Jobs for the Future (JFF) and the Foundry Educational Foundation (FEF) to address the critical workforce shortage in the U.S. casting and forging industry. This collaboration, under the leadership of IACMI, aims to equip a highly skilled workforce to support the goals of the Department of Defense.

With the U.S. casting and forging industry facing a pressing need for an additional 122,000 skilled professionals by 2028, the stability of the nation’s defense supply chain is at risk. METAL is designed to meet this challenge by accelerating the development of a highly skilled, adaptive workforce.

METAL is supported by the DoD’s IBAS program, which focuses on strengthening the competitiveness of the U.S. industrial base in response to national security threats and promoting workforce development initiatives. The program seeks to cultivate a resilient domestic workforce capable of sustaining and advancing the nation’s casting and forging capabilities through 2050.

“By partnering with Jobs for the Future and the Foundry Educational Foundation, we are not only addressing the immediate workforce needs but also investing in the long-term resilience and innovation of the U.S. casting and forging industry,” said METAL Workforce Manager Lucinda Curry. “Our goal is to empower a new generation of skilled professionals who will safeguard our nation’s defense capabilities and drive technological advancement.”

Developing Apprenticeships at Forging and Casting Companies

The apprenticeship component of METAL bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.

Nearly 3,000 manufacturers across the country now offer apprenticeships, recognizing it as a proven solution for recruiting, training, and retaining world-class manufacturing talent in good, quality jobs. METAL, through JFF, helps companies develop apprenticeship programs for roles such as forging operator, die setter, mold maker, core maker, CNC operator, and maintenance technician.

Wage increases for apprentices are tied to skill gains, allowing them to earn more while advancing their careers. Upon completing the apprenticeship, participants receive a national credential from the U.S. Department of Labor and may earn industry-recognized credentials and credit toward an associate degree. METAL’s apprenticeship program can help companies:

Train employees for higher-skilled positions

Develop career paths to attract talent

Provide pathways for career advancement

Standardize training across company sites

Improve productivity, safety practices, and company capacity

Develop a learning culture that boosts loyalty and retention

METAL offers comprehensive support for companies looking to develop and implement apprenticeship programs, including:

Consulting services

Connections to funding resources

Access to training experts

Free training modules to supplement internal training plans

Preparing Students for Real World Metal Experience

Additionally, the Foundry Educational Foundation (FEF) has placed 16 interns from seven universities in Phase 1 of its internship program, acquired industry partners for Phase 2, and intends to engage with over 2,500 students through its high school outreach program. FEF’s mission is to strengthen the metal-manufacturing industry by supporting unique partnerships between university students, FEF key professors, and the metal-manufacturing industry, providing financial support, guidance and career opportunities.

Interns placed in industry from FEF schools work on a variety of technical projects, design activities, assist in outreach and camps for high school students, and work on specific company research. All projects include technical training and hands-on project experience. FEF students meet directly with industry members, which develops their networking opportunities.

Some key accomplishments by the interns include:

Finishing the custom build of a bucket elevator and shakeout table for a green sand system

Designing and machining a permanent mold for outreach events for the upcoming fiscal year

Participating in an ongoing research project that explores the effect of boron in ductile iron and potential mitigation strategies

Participating in high-pressure die casting experiments

Developing outreach to expose more students to metal manufacturing

“By joining us as either a company, apprentice, or intern, you become part of a dedicated effort to build a stronger, self-reliant America. Together, we can forge a future where our defense industrial base is second to none,” Curry said.

For more information on providing apprenticeship opportunities, connect with Lucinda Curry at lcurry@iacmi.org.

$4.4 million metals partnership brings new youth programming to Behrend

ERIE, Pa. — A $4.4 million partnership with the Department of Defense and the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation (IACMI) has expanded metals-based manufacturing programs at Penn State Behrend, including youth programs.

Behrend’s College for Kids, a six-week summer enrichment program for youth ages 6 to 14, now includes a metal-casting course. Students create sand molds, which are used to cast metal objects.

The class is part of a three-year initiative — the Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship and Learning program, or METAL — that is designed to address a shortage of skilled labor in the manufacturing sector. Nearly one-fourth of the manufacturing workforce is 55 or older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. By 2030, more than 2 million manufacturing jobs will be unfilled, according to Manufacturing USA.

Read the full story here.

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