Highlights from the 2024 NFFS Industry Executive Conference
The Non-Ferrous Founders' Society (NFFS) recently concluded its highly anticipated 2024 Industry Executive Conference, held at the stunning Hawks Cay Resort in Duck Key, Florida. This year's event was a resounding success, drawing the highest attendance in a decade and providing attendees with three days filled with education, networking, and recreation.
One of the highlights of the conference was the return of renowned workplace development expert Chris Czarnik, who delivered another eye-opening and insightful session on strategies to retain your top talent. In his signature no-nonsense style, Chris provided attendees with actionable insights and innovative approaches to address the challenges of talent retention in today's competitive market.
The signature event of the conference was the Tropical Twilight Experience, sponsored by the Society's new shipping partner, Estes. This outdoor, oceanfront networking event perfectly showcased the beauty of the Florida Keys. Attendees were treated to live entertainment by the talented Tom Sartori Band while enjoying the picturesque sunset, the perfect setting for connecting and relaxing with industry peers.
A new feature of the conference this year was the NFFS Cornhole Tournament, sponsored by NFFS member Inductotherm Corporation. The tournament brought together industry professionals for a friendly competition, with NFFS Executive Director Jerrod Weaver and NFFS board member Reg Zeller of CaneKast emerging victorious as tournament champions.
In keeping with tradition, the Industry Executive Conference included a fundraiser to raise funds for the NFFS Scholarship Program. This year's fundraiser was a "Scratch & WIN" lottery ticket- style game with a variety of prizes in all sizes for the winners. A total of $3,640 was raised to support the Scholarship Program, and the following attendees were the lucky winners of the game's grand prizes:
- Marshall Miller, 3D Systems – 3-day, 2-night stay at the Westin Cape Coral Resort & Marina in Cape Coral, Florida
- Dan and Kristin Horvath, Brost Foundry – 3-day, 2-night stay at Hawks Cay Resort in Duck Key, Florida
- George Mugford, Bunting Bearings LLC – 3-day, 2-night stay at MGM Grand Las Vegas & two tickets to the "Mad Apple" Cirque du Soleil show
- Steve Horvath, Brost Foundry – 3-day, 2-night stay at the Westin New Orleans
As always, the 2024 Industry Executive Conference not only provided attendees with valuable educational sessions but also offered numerous opportunities for networking and building relationships within the non-ferrous foundry industry. The event's success underscores the NFFS's commitment to providing value and fostering growth for its member companies.
As the curtains close on this year's conference, the NFFS invites industry professionals to mark their calendars for the 2025 Industry Executive Conference. Set to take place at the Westin New Orleans from February 21st to 23rd, 2025 (just a couple of weeks before Mardi Gras!), the event promises to be another unforgettable gathering of industry leaders, thought-provoking sessions, and unparalleled networking opportunities. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with the best in the business!