NFFS Issues Scholarship Award
Nathan Alfieri Selected for the 1st Annual
Mary & Louis Iannettoni Memorial Scholarship
The Non-Ferrous Founders' Society Scholarship Committee has selected Nathan Alfieri as the recipient of our association's new Mary & Louis Iannettoni Memorial Scholarship.
Nathan, a senior at Penn State Behrend, is pursuing a degree in Interdisciplinary Business with Engineering Studies with a minor in Technical Sales. He currently serves as an Engineering Intern at Erie Bronze & Aluminum, where he supports casting design, simulation, sand testing, molding operations, and process improvement initiatives.
The Scholarship Committee selected Nathan based on his combination of technical ability, foundry experience, work ethic, and long-term commitment to the metalcasting industry.
“Nathan is exactly the type of candidate this scholarship was designed
to support,” said Jerry Smith. “He has already demonstrated a strong
commitment to the foundry industry through both his education and
hands-on experience. His initiative, professionalism, and passion
for manufacturing made him stand out throughout the review process.”
Nathan was strongly endorsed by Cory Knight, who highlighted both his technical capabilities and work ethic.
“Nate is exceptionally bright and possesses a work ethic that
matches his intelligence,” said Knight. “He quickly became a valued
member of our team, taking on responsibilities across
engineering and production while continuing to excel academically.
He clearly demonstrates the qualities necessary to become a
successful engineer and leader in our industry.”
Through his role at Erie Bronze & Aluminum, Nathan has gained direct experience designing gating systems and running simulations using CREO and SolidCast while also supporting day-to-day foundry operations. His career goals focus on process improvement, manufacturing efficiency, and advancing foundry operations through practical engineering solutions.
This year also marked an important evolution of the scholarship program. The Scholarship Committee implemented a new requirement that all applicants receive a recommendation from an NFFS member company. The change was designed to strengthen the connection between the scholarship program and the non-ferrous metalcasting industry while encouraging greater member involvement in workforce development.
The Committee believes Nathan’s application clearly demonstrated the value of that change. His recommendation from Erie Bronze & Aluminum provided direct insight into his work ethic, technical skills, and day-to-day impact inside a foundry environment.
“The goal is not simply to award scholarships,” said Smith. “The goal is to strengthen the pipeline of future industry leaders. Requiring an NFFS member recommendation helps connect students and emerging talent directly with foundries and reinforces the role our members play in developing the next generation of the workforce.”
The Scholarship Committee encourages NFFS members to actively promote the scholarship within their organizations and communities. Member companies are encouraged to:
- Connect with interns and co-op students about applying
- Share the opportunity with local colleges, technical schools, and manufacturing programs
- Identify promising young talent within their operations
- Serve as mentors and advocates for future industry professionals
By increasing awareness and engagement, the Committee hopes to continue building a stronger pipeline of skilled professionals committed to careers in metalcasting.
The Mary & Louis Iannettoni Memorial Scholarship honors the lasting legacy of leadership, service, and dedication that Mary and Louis Iannettoni brought to the metalcasting industry while helping NFFS invest in its future. Contributions to the scholarship fund help support the next generation of metalcasting professionals and strengthen the industry through continued innovation, craftsmanship, and opportunity.