NFFS WD Webinar - Legacy at Work: Empowering Foundry Veterans to Mentor

Foundries rely on the expertise and experience of their veteran employees to keep operations running smoothly and safely. However, much of this institutional knowledge can be lost if it isn’t actively shared with younger team members. This webinar will explore practical ways for foundry leaders to empower experienced workers to mentor and guide newer employees—without fear that they will be replaced.

Attendees will learn strategies for capturing critical skills, processes, and insights that are essential to day-to-day operations and long-term success. The session will also cover how to create a culture that values mentorship and collaboration, ensuring knowledge is passed down efficiently while strengthening team cohesion and workforce engagement. Leaders will leave with actionable approaches to establish structured mentorship programs, foster intergenerational learning, and safeguard the legacy of their workforce for years to come.

Meet the Speaker:

David Rea, Managing Director of Organizational Development Consulting at Catalyst Connection, specializes in helping manufacturers optimize their workforce through strategic hiring, development, and retention. With expertise in succession planning, leadership training, job analysis, and workforce engagement, Dave has helped organizations across Southwestern Pennsylvania build high-performing teams and foster cultures of mentorship and knowledge-sharing.

Who Should Attend:

• Foundry owners and leaders looking to preserve institutional knowledge
• HR and workforce development professionals
• Supervisors and team leads responsible for mentoring programs
• Anyone invested in developing a resilient, knowledgeable workforce
  
  

Key Takeaways:

• How to encourage experienced workers to mentor younger employees without fear of replacement
• Best practices for capturing and transferring critical institutional knowledge
• Strategies to build a culture where mentorship is valued and recognized
• Practical ways to strengthen workforce continuity and team performance
  
  

Why It Matters:

Foundries that actively empower their seasoned employees to mentor the next generation maintain a competitive edge. By fostering knowledge-sharing and collaboration, organizations preserve institutional expertise, improve retention, and ensure long-term operational success.