From the CEO
DOUG KURKUL Chief Executive Officer American Foundry Society
During the first several months of 2016, I embarked on an aggressive travel schedule that took me to metalcasting facilities, chapter events, industry conferences, and advocacy meetings throughout the country and the world. This itinerary informed me of our members’ most pressing needs and dynamic opportunities, and allowed me to see first
hand our industry’s determination to push forward for growth and innovation.
April 2016 featured our once-every-three-years CastExpo in Minneapolis. New innovations included three keynote speakers and The Hub (a location for informal gathering and planned events, such as a discussion on chapters hosted by AFS President Jeff Cook). More than 6,125 people attended and 456 companies exhibited. Participation in the technical sessions remained strong. The 2017 Metalcasting Congress will be held April 25-27 in Milwaukee.
Advocacy — AFS is working in the nation’s capital to shape a better business climate for the metalcasting industry. OSHA’s ill-advised crystalline silica rule is at the forefront of our efforts. AFS has filed a lawsuit against the agency, challenging the rule’s technical and economic feasibility. We will also work with the Trump administration on regulatory relief. AFS also achieved a number of policy victories. The enactment of a five-year transportation bill benefits metalcasters by providing predictability and increased funding for infrastructure projects. EPA’s so-called Clean Power Plan was blocked by the Supreme Court. A third victory came in the form of tax legislation that included a permanent R&D credit. We anticipate another victory on a recent Treasury Department rule that would disadvantage family-owned businesses. Advocacy for the industry also comes in the form of our magazines, Supply-Chain Summit, and other programs.
Education and Workforce Development — The AFS Institute hosted 43 live courses in FY 2015-2016 and now offers 38 completely revamped classroom courses. On July 1, 2016, AFS introduced a metalcasting e-learning initiative (which includes unlimited access to the AFS library) that has been well received. New modules are being added continuously. The Melting Point publication and metalcasting in a box demonstrations inform young people of career opportunities in our industry for those with the right skills.
Innovation and Tech Advancement — AFS is fostering innovation by sponsoring research, and holding conferences on topics like additive manufacturing, safety and health matters as well as cupola operations. AFS led the development and May 2016 American Metalcasting Consortium publication of the Metalcasting Industry Roadmap. This document identifies future R&D needed to accelerate the growth of advanced manufacturing. Your association is also participating in four of the new National Manufacturing and Innovation Institutes.
Member Involvement — AFS benefits from a large group of volunteers who provide their time, knowledge, and direction to our committees, chapters and shared interest groups. AFS members hosted numerous lawmakers – and even Vice Presidential candidate Mike Pence – for plant tours. We have redoubled our commitment to student chapters by holding web discussions and assigning staff liaisons; we are also collaborating with FEF on its programs. Efforts to strengthen the chapter structure include posting an online Speakers Bureau listing more than 100 speakers around North America. Participation in the Casting Connections online community continue to grow, disseminating knowledge throughout the industry. AFS supported the Future Leaders in Metalcasting program throughout 2016, and sponsored two participants to attend the World Foundry Congress in Japan. Support for Women in Metalcasting is another ongoing high AFS priority.
In total, 2016 was an active year for AFS, as well as its members and professional staff. We have an exciting year planned for 2017, as we pursue our vital three-part mission of Advocate-Educate-Innovate. Thank you for your investment and involvement.
AFS
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