NFFS 2026 Industry Executive Conference Speaker Spotlight
As a preview of the 2026 NFFS Industry Executive Conference — Serious Business, Island Style, we are pleased to highlight two distinguished presenters who will bring significant insights, practical expertise, and forward-looking perspectives to this year’s program. Each week, we’ll introduce another pair of industry leaders whose knowledge and experience will help equip foundry executives with the tools, strategies, and clarity needed to navigate today’s challenges and seize tomorrow’s opportunities.
Economic Outlook 2026: Insights and Strategies for a Changing Industrial Landscape
Michael Feuz, ITR Economics
Saturday, February 21 • 9:00am –10:30am
Back by popular demand, Michael Feuz of ITR Economics returns to deliver another dynamic and data-driven look at the economy shaping the future of metalcasting. In this in-depth session, Michael will examine both short- and long-term economic forecasts, highlighting trends in the U.S. and global economies most relevant to non-ferrous foundries and the broader metalcasting industry.
Attendees will gain practical insight into ITR Economics’ Management Objectives, learn to identify their company’s position within the Business Cycle Phases, and discover key leading economic indicators that signal where opportunities and challenges lie ahead. The presentation will also address the latest developments in inflation, interest rates, and tax policy, and explore how current events and market conditions are influencing industrial demand, investment, and workforce dynamics.
As always, Michael will provide actionable strategies to help business leaders make informed decisions, anticipate change, and position their organizations for sustained success—combining serious economic insight with a relaxing "island style" delivery.
From Conflict to Commerce: Geopolitical Risks and Business Strategies for an Uncertain World
Eugene Chausovsky, New Lines Institute
Saturday, February 21 • 11:00am – 12:00pm
In an era of rapid geopolitical change, understanding the forces shaping the global landscape is essential for sound business strategy. Eugene Chausovsky of New Lines Institute will provide a forward-looking briefing on the world’s most critical geopolitical flashpoints—including the Russia-Ukraine war, tensions in the Middle East, and the evolving China-Taiwan dynamic—and what they mean for U.S. manufacturers and supply chains.
This session will translate complex global events into practical business insight, covering supply chain vulnerabilities, market access challenges, and trade barriers that directly impact industrial operations. Attendees will also gain tools for risk management and scenario planning, equipping leaders to anticipate disruption and make informed, flexible decisions amid uncertainty.
Eugene will close with a discussion of long-term geopolitical, demographic, and industrial development trends, providing a strategic outlook to help business leaders position their organizations for resilience and success in the decade ahead. Because in today’s world, serious business demands a clear view of what’s coming from over the horizon.
REGISTER NOW TO ATTEND THE NFFS 2026 INDUSTRY EXECUTIVE CONFERENCE