From Castings to Careers: NFFS Takes the Stage at National Signing Day!
National Press Club | Washington, DC | June 27, 2025
You could feel it in the room, we weren’t just celebrating new hires. We were witnessing a movement.
On June 27, I had the honor of representing the Non-Ferrous Founders’ Society (NFFS) as a Network Coach at the Navy Talent Pipeline Program’s (TPP) National Signing Day, held at the iconic National Press Club in Washington, D.C. This wasn’t your typical workforce event. It was a powerful gathering of industry leaders, public officials, educators, military partners, and, most importantly, the next generation of skilled workers.
The energy was electric. It was amazing event, especially when I took the time to stop, look around, and take it all in. The sense of pride and purpose was unmistakable.
I was proud to speak on behalf of the six NFFS members in our cohort and highlighting how the TPP is helping them find real solutions to their workforce challenges. The stories shared on stage by my fellow Network leaders and coaches weren’t polished PR soundbites, they were raw, honest, and deeply moving.
We all heard from Boots Olson, a new hire from Rhoads Industries. She told her story about having no college degree, just determination to do meaningful work as a welder. Her words shifted the room and reminded everyone that potential comes in many forms.
In addition, we heard from Senator Tim Kaine, who brought his personal connection to the trades, his father was a welder and ironworker. He spoke passionately about restoring pride in skilled work. Also, Chief Master Chief Jeffrey H. compared the TPP’s mission to the industrial mobilization during WWII, calling it the “secret sauce” for rebuilding our defense industrial base. That line made me more determined to recruit all NFFS members into the program.
In the end, the most memorable moment came when John Danko, President of Danko Arlington, introduced me to his new hire, Justin LeGrand, a welder trained through the Jane Addams Resource Corporation. I had heard Justin’s story before, but meeting him in person brought it all home. His rapid success in a high-spec defense role after overcoming personal and professional obstacles is exactly why this program exists.
What we’re doing through the Talent Pipeline Program isn’t just about filling jobs. It’s about investing in people, restoring dignity to the trades, and strengthening the future of American manufacturing.
Watch the full event: https://lnkd.in/edDgfGZy
If you want to bring this kind of impact to your foundry, reach out to me at bill@nffs.org.