Bill Padnos Appointed Chair of METAL Advisory Network

The Non-Ferrous Founders' Society (NFFS) proudly announces that Bill Padnos, Director of Workforce Development, has been appointed Chair of the METAL Advisory Network. He brings extensive experience in workforce development and a deep commitment to fostering a skilled labor force for the metal manufacturing industries.

Since starting at NFFS in October 2024, Bill has played a key role in strengthening workforce development efforts for the association by serving as the Network Coach for the NFFS Talent Pipeline Program and the staff liaison for the Next-Gen Committee. By serving as the Chair of the METAL Advisory Network, he will work to enhance collaboration among industry leaders, educational institutions, and workforce training programs to address the ongoing skilled labor shortage in metal manufacturing.

“NFFS is proud to see Bill Padnos take on this important leadership role as Chair of the METAL Advisory Network,” said Jerrod Weaver, NFFS Executive Director. “Bill has been instrumental in advancing workforce development initiatives for foundries through the NFFS Talent Pipeline Program, and his leadership on the METAL Advisory Network will further strengthen collaboration between industry, education, and workforce training efforts. His expertise and dedication will undoubtedly help drive progress in addressing the skilled labor shortage in metal manufacturing industries. We appreciate Bill’s commitment to labor development strategies and look forward to his continued impact in shaping the future of this nation’s workforce.”

Bill’s appointment aligns with the mission of METAL, which is dedicated to strengthening and diversifying the U.S. metal manufacturing workforce. The program, led by IACMI – The Composites Institute® and funded by the Department of Defense’s Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment Program, focuses on addressing workforce shortages in metallurgy, casting, and forging. By establishing clear career pathways and promoting industry-driven apprenticeships, METAL ensures a robust and sustainable workforce for the future.

“The METAL Advisory Network plays a crucial role in shaping the future of metallurgy and manufacturing workforce development,” said METAL National Workforce Manager Lucinda Curry. “We are thrilled to have NFFS as a key partner in this effort, and we look forward to working with Bill Padnos as chair to advance initiatives that support skilled trades, apprenticeships, and career pathways in the industry.”

The METAL Advisory Network serves as a crucial bridge between industry needs and workforce development strategies. With Bill Padnos at the helm, the network is poised to make significant strides in training programs, ensuring they align with the evolving demands of the metal manufacturing sector. Through partnerships with organizations like METAL, NFFS continues to drive meaningful progress in developing a highly skilled workforce, reinforcing the strength and sustainability of American metal industries.