The future of your foundry depends on the leaders you prepare today. In an industry where experience, precision, and people skills directly influence productivity and retention, developing your rising talent is not just beneficial. It is a strategic investment that pays measurable dividends. NFFS Next-Gen Program is designed to help you build that pipeline of confident, capable, future-ready leaders who will carry your business forward.
Companies that intentionally develop emerging leaders see stronger retention, higher engagement, better communication across teams, and more effective problem solving on the shop floor and in the office. When your people grow, your business grows. When you invest in their leadership skills and professional development, you build loyalty, strengthen culture, and position your foundry for long-term success.
One of the most powerful tools available to your rising leaders is NFFS Next-Gen Webinar Series, a continuously growing resource of real-world leadership training tailored specifically to the metalcasting industry. These sessions offer practical insights, strategies your employees can apply immediately, and exposure to industry trends that help them think more strategically about their role. Employers are encouraged to explore upcoming sessions and watch previous recordings at www.nffs.org/next-gen-webinar-series.
A standout opportunity is the next live session, Your Network = Your Net Worth: Cultivating Meaningful Professional Relationships, scheduled for Thursday, January 15, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Eastern. Relationship-building expert Jim Mayer will teach participants how to create strong, authentic networks that accelerate careers, strengthen teams, improve collaboration, and open doors without feeling transactional. For emerging leaders and supervisors alike, this one-hour session provides skills that directly support better communication, stronger problem solving, and improved performance on the job.
To ensure your next-generation leaders receive invitations, reminders, and updates, we encourage member companies to let NFFS communicate directly with them. Submit their information at www.nffs.org/nextgen-form so they never miss an opportunity to grow.
NFFS is also proud to partner in the 2026 Emerging Leaders Conference presented by NTMA, taking place April 27 through April 29 in Grand Rapids, MI. This national event brings together the brightest rising talent in manufacturing for three days of learning, collaboration, and exposure to the technologies and ideas shaping the future. It is a powerful way to help your emerging leaders expand their network, gain confidence, and represent your company among the industry’s rising influencers. Registration opens soon.
We also invite members who want to contribute more deeply to volunteer for the Next-Gen Committee. Your insight helps shape program content, identify valuable speakers, and ensure the development needs of our foundries remain front and center. Reach out to Bill Padnos if you are interested.
When you invest in leadership development, you invest in retention, culture, productivity, and the long-term health of your business. By engaging with the NFFS Next-Gen Program, supporting participation, and elevating your emerging leaders, you are taking an essential step toward securing your foundry’s future.