There Is Still Time To Register For The NFFS 2026 Industry Executive Conference
Serious Business. Real Strategy.
Unmatched Peer Connection
- Island Style!
The NFFS 2026 Industry Executive Conference (IEC) is shaping up to be one of the most impactful gatherings of non-ferrous foundry leaders in recent years. Taking place February 20–22, 2026, at El Conquistador Resort in Puerto Rico, the IEC brings together executive-level insight, practical strategy, and unmatched peer networking - all delivered with NFFS’s signature blend of Serious Business, Island Style.
If you have not yet registered, there is still time to attend and gain access to timely intelligence, proven tools, and candid conversations that can directly influence your foundry’s performance in 2026 and beyond.
Executive Insight for an Uncertain Economy and World
A cornerstone of the conference is the return of Michael Feuz of ITR Economics, presenting Economic Outlook 2026: Insights and Strategies for a Changing Industrial Landscape. Back by popular demand, Michael will provide a data-driven analysis of short- and long-term economic trends affecting non-ferrous foundries and U.S. manufacturing.
Attendees will gain clarity on where their organizations fall within the business cycle, how to use leading economic indicators to anticipate change, and how inflation, interest rates, tax policy, and global market conditions may shape demand, investment, and workforce decisions in the year ahead.
Adding a global lens, Eugene Chausovsky of New Lines Institute will translate today’s most pressing geopolitical developments into practical business insight. From supply-chain disruption to trade risk and long-term industrial shifts, this session equips leaders with tools for scenario planning and strategic resilience in an increasingly complex world.
Policy, Compliance, and Risk Management That Matter
Returning as one of the conference’s most highly rated speakers, Omar Nashashibi of Inside Beltway will deliver a forward-looking briefing on Politics, Policy & Manufacturing in 2026. This session connects Washington policy realities to shop-floor impact, covering trade, tariffs, domestic manufacturing incentives, workforce programs, and regulatory direction at OSHA and EPA.
On the compliance front, Skip and Martha Guimond once again bring clarity to the evolving OSHA and EPA landscape. Their practical, fast-paced session focuses on enforcement priorities, inspection trends, emissions, heat stress, chemical management, and recordkeeping—providing actionable guidance that leaders can implement immediately to manage risk and protect their workforce.
Innovation, Defense Manufacturing, and Workforce Strategy
The conference also looks ahead to innovation and national priorities. In Inside ICON: Powering the Future of Defense Manufacturing, attendees will see a live demonstration of the ICON Portal, NFFS’s secure digital platform connecting foundries to real Department of Defense and prime contractor opportunities.
Workforce challenges take center stage in Casting the Future: Empowering Your Foundry to Inspire Tomorrow’s Talent, a dynamic panel moderated by Bill Padnos, Director of Workforce Development for NFFS. Industry experts will share proven strategies for engaging students, building community partnerships, and telling a stronger story about careers in metalcasting—offering practical tools leaders can apply immediately.
More Than a Conference: Unmatched Networking and Experiences
What truly sets the NFFS Industry Executive Conference apart is the in-person experience.
The conference begins with the Welcome Reception & Dinner on Friday evening, where attendees are immersed in Puerto Rican culture through live traditional music, colorful festival characters, exceptional food, and relaxed conversation. This event sets the tone for the days ahead, giving leaders space to reconnect, meet new peers, and ease into island-style networking.
Throughout the weekend, attendees can continue conversations during the Tabletop Exhibits and Boricua Artisan Market, blending business engagement with local culture in a relaxed morning setting.
One of the most anticipated experiences is NFFS Day at Palomino Island, an exclusive private island getaway featuring live Caribbean music, a beach party lunch, and time to unwind and connect with peers in a truly unforgettable setting.
Evenings bring additional opportunities to connect and recharge, including the Comedy Hypnosis Show with Erick Känd, offering laughter and lighthearted fun, and the NFFS Annual Meeting & Closing Dinner, where members reflect on the year, welcome new leadership, and celebrate the Society’s shared progress, followed by music, dancing, and the reveal of the 2027 conference location.
Optional Activities That Extend the Experience
For those looking to make the most of their time in Puerto Rico, the IEC also offers optional add-on experiences, including a chef-inspired dinner at OKEAH Modern Kitchen & Bar, a bioluminescent bay kayaking adventure, rainforest ziplining, the Founders’ Classic Golf Tournament, a Casa Bacardí Mixology Experience, and a mini boat island-hopping and snorkeling excursion. These activities provide additional opportunities to build relationships while enjoying the natural beauty and culture of Puerto Rico.
There Is Still Time to Attend
The NFFS 2026 Industry Executive Conference delivers clarity in uncertain times, practical insight leaders can use immediately, and peer connections that strengthen decision-making all year long.
Registration remains open, and while the official hotel room block has closed, attendees can still book accommodations directly with the resort or nearby hotels.
Now is the time to invest in perspective, preparation, and relationships that will help position your foundry for success in 2026 and beyond.
Learn more and register at nffs.org/26IEC