More Than a Visit: Connecting NFFS Members with Opportunity

November 2, 2026

Posted By: Jerrod Weaver in NFFS, Workforce Development,

Recently, NFFS Workforce Development Specialist Erin Boehm and I had the opportunity to visit Silver Dollar Castings in Chicago, Illinois, where we spent time with President Jill Clement and toured their foundry operations.

I was impressed by their casting capabilities, the orderly and well-maintained foundry environment, and especially the motivated, professional workforce.

It was also great to spend time with Jill, a hands-on foundry owner who clearly knows her operation, takes pride in her people, and continues to invest in the future of her business. I have tremendous respect for owners like Jill who are actively engaged in every aspect of their foundry operations.

But perhaps the best part of our visit was something completely unexpected.

During our conversations, we learned that Jill was actively looking to purchase additional foundry equipment quickly to support her growing business. As it happened, NFFS had only recently learned of another Illinois member foundry that was closing and looking to sell equipment quickly as well.

We were able to make an immediate connection between the two companies, creating a potential win-win opportunity for both NFFS members.

This is exactly why industry engagement matters.

You cannot fully understand the challenges and opportunities facing our industry from behind a desk. You have to get out, walk the floors, talk with owners and employees, and understand what foundries actually need.

Sometimes the greatest value we can provide isn't a new program or service. It's simply knowing our members well enough to connect the right people at the right time.

That's what NFFS is all about, and it's one of the things I enjoy most about serving this industry.

A big thank you to Jill and the entire Silver Dollar Castings team for the hospitality, the great conversations, and the opportunity to see your impressive operation firsthand!

Let's bring the conversation to your foundry.

I'd welcome the opportunity to visit your facility, meet your team, and hear what's working well and where you could use support. These conversations help us understand your priorities, strengthen the connections between our members, and shape the work we do on your behalf.

If you'd like to host an NFFS visit, please reach out to me directly. Let's start a conversation about your operation and find an opportunity to connect.