2024 NFFS Industry Executive Conference

Shari Bower, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta
Monday, February 26, 2024
8:30 – 9:30 a.m.

Shari Bower, Vice President and Regional Executive with the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta's Miami Office, will take you on a captivating journey into the world of macroeconomics and the invaluable insights derived from the Federal Reserve Bank data. In this engaging session, Shari will decode the complexities of US economy and how it directly impacts your role as non-ferrous foundry owners and operators in the United States. Discover the tools and knowledge you need to navigate the ever-evolving economic landscape with confidence.

Understand how macroeconomic forces influence the micro-level dynamics of your industry. Gain clarity on how broader economic trends can impact your day-to-day operations and strategic decisions. Learn how to leverage data from the Federal Reserve Bank to make informed choices for your business and uncover hidden insights within the wealth of economic information at your disposal. Whether you're an industry veteran or new to the non-ferrous foundry sector, this presentation promises to equip you with essential knowledge and tools to thrive in the challenging economic environment.  Your journey to economic empowerment starts here!

Justin Ganschow, Caterpillar Safety Services
Monday, February 26, 2024
9:30 – 10:30 a.m. 

There is a spectrum of how safety is managed within organizations, from authoritarian to democratic, and all leaders play a role in shaping that culture. Whether we wear the title of 'safety' or not, how we interact with others in situations regarding establishing safety expectations, performing audits or assessments of work practices, or responding after an incident forms perceptions about our character. It starts with understanding the biological reflexes of reacting to stressful or challenging safety situations and then adopting cerebral, intellectual habits that are more effective solutions. This workshop will share how to overcome a 'safety cop' persona, balancing leadership with collaboration to help participants become trusted safety advisors and create a more engaged safety culture. 

Skip Guimond & Martha Guimond, Joseph A. Guimond and Associates
Monday, February 26, 2024
10:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Prepare to be informed, engaged, and empowered as industry experts Skip Guimond and Martha Guimond of Joseph A. Guimond and Associates take the stage at our conference. With their reputation for providing practical and no-nonsense compliance assistance, Skip and Martha are back to bring you the latest developments in OSHA and EPA regulations that directly impact non-ferrous foundries.

In this highly anticipated session, Skip and Martha will delve into the most recent changes and updates in regulatory compliance, offering invaluable insights tailored specifically for your foundry. Year after year, this session consistently receives high ratings at our conference. Skip and Martha's ability to make complex regulations understandable and actionable is unparalleled. Don't miss this opportunity to stay updated and well-prepared for the regulatory challenges that lie ahead. 

Stacey Mullinex and Deborah Giarusso, University of Northern Iowa - Advance Iowa
Monday, February 26, 2024
1:00 – 2:00 p.m.  

This presentation reviews ownership transition alternatives. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the various available options, advance planning, and defining transition objectives. The workshop will provide information on how an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) can be a viable option to facilitate a successful ownership transition. It discusses how an ESOP can serve as a strategic tool for succession planning, ensure a smooth leadership transition while maintaining organizational stability and optimize financial/tax considerations. Information on worker cooperative options will also be discussed. Participants develop an understanding of the various options for ownership transition and how to leverage programs, such as ESOPs, as a strategic tool for a successful succession plan, ensuring stable business continuity and legacy. 

Chris Czarnik, Career [RE]Search Group
Monday, February 26, 2024
2:00 – 3:30 p.m.

In an exclusive session, Chris Czarnik will delve deeper into the realm of employee recruitment tactics, equipping foundry leaders with the tools they need to create a winning workforce. Drawing from his acclaimed book, "Winning the War for Talent," Chris will explore the critical aspects of talent retention and development that go beyond simply attracting the right individuals. Key takeaways will include:

• Understanding the Root Causes of Employee Departure: Gain profound insights into the factors that compel talented individuals to leave their current positions, ensuring you can proactively address these issues within your organization.
• Mastering the Art of Onboarding and Long-Term Management: Discover effective strategies for seamlessly integrating new employees into your workforce, empowering them to thrive and fostering lasting loyalty.
• Nurturing Talent through Mentoring and Subject Matter Expert Programs: Learn how to create an environment conducive to continuous growth, offering mentorship opportunities and leveraging subject matter expertise to propel your employees' careers forward.
• Retention Tools on a Budget: Explore cost-effective retention solutions that have a big impact, proving that a strong workforce doesn't necessarily require a substantial financial investment.

Derek Yesmunt, Norican Group
Monday, February 26, 2024
3:45 – 4:30 p.m.

Using practical examples and success stories from foundries such as A.Y. McDonald, Ford Meter Box, Erie Bronze and Berntsen Brass, Derek Yesmunt will help you understand the benefits that automation and AI can yield in your foundry. He will explain the role of automation in shot blasting equipment and showcase real-world case studies and tools that have enhanced performance and uptime in real foundries. He will also discuss the advantages of automation in molding equipment and sand preparation processes, along with the tools used to achieve cost savings and efficiency. This will be followed by a Q&A session, where Derek will offer constructive advice to attendees regarding how to implement automation in their foundries.

Mark Mitford, HR Catalyst Consulting
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
8:30 – 9:30 a.m.

The human resource/people side of your business is highly complex. Most middle market sized companies are lacking several key components within the HR function.  Mark Mitford has held the top HR position in Fortune 500 and middle market companies for 20+ years and has had his own HR consulting business, HR Catalyst, for the last 10 years.  His presentation will focus on the Top 10 HR mistakes made by middle market size companies and how to fix these issues to run a better company and minimize legal risk. These mistakes may be made unknowingly, but they can be very costly to the growth and success of your business.  Mark’s presentation will be engaging and informative while sharing highly useful information that you can act on immediately to protect, grow and manage your business.

Todd Hutcheson, University of Northern Iowa Center for Business Growth & Innovation
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
9:30 – 10:15 a.m.

The University of Northern Iowa’s (UNI) Center for Business Innovation and Growth (CBGI) is collaborating with the Defense Logistics Agency, the National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining, and Youngstown State University to implement Industry 4.0 principles in the Foundry & Casting Industry. The goal is to enhance the industry's long-term resiliency and success. As part of the project, CBGI has developed an Industry 4.0 assessment matrix, and is in the process of simplifying its use, automating its connection to business value and KPI improvement, and generating reports with action plans for companies to start implementing Industry 4.0 quickly. The presentation will discuss the tool's development, future plans for streamlining and automation (including the use of online data collection tools and AI generated improvement plans), and continuous improvement efforts for assessment and alignment with business value.

Susan Thomson, Action Coach of Wisconsin
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

The way we do business has changed in a blink of an eye. If you are putting in lots of extra hours and long days as a result, or you are stressed out about the future, we guarantee you’re going to love this session! You’ll learn the exact steps to go from being stuck, to bringing in clients easily, in less time, and how to have an amazing team that handles them flawlessly.

In this high-energy and illuminating session, Master Coach and globally award-winning business owner Susan Thomson will share the proven blueprint to increasing your conversion rates and increasing your profits dramatically. Susan's strategies are both immediately actionable and come from years in manufacturing hard goods success, plus 15+ years of working with client companies through ActionCOACH. We guarantee you will love this entertaining and helpful session – imagine what it will feel like to have people buying what you are selling – and bringing in more profit!

Sunday, February 25, 2024
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.

The IEC opens with an evening of networking and camaraderie at our Welcome Reception. As the sun sets over the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico, immerse yourself in the warm ambiance of this tropical paradise. The Welcome Reception begins the conference with a blend of business and leisure, where you can reconnect with friends and business partners, make new connections, and relax in the tranquil atmosphere of the Florida Keys at sunset. Enjoy a selection of topical options for dinner, sip on cocktails, and engage with peers and experts in the non-ferrous foundry industry.

Event sponsored by:

Monday, February 26, 2024
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.

We are pleased to announce an exciting addition to the IEC schedule: Lunch with the Exhibitors! This newly-added event provides dedicated time for our tabletop exhibitors and event attendees to engage in meaningful conversations while enjoying a casual networking luncheon in the exhibit hall. 

Tropical Twilight Experience
Monday, February 26, 2024
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Join us for a magical evening under the stars at the Hawks Cay Resort. Nestled among the breathtaking beauty of the Florida Keys, our "Tropical Twilight Experience" promises to be an unforgettable night of relaxation and fun! Kick off the evening with a cocktail reception on the pristine Oasis Cay Beach. Here, you can mingle with fellow conference attendees while enjoying a refreshing cocktail and hors d'oeuvres. As the sun sets over the blue waters of the Gulf, we'll gather on the Oasis Cay Lawn for dinner and entertainment. Savor a delicious menu featuring the finest flavors of the Florida Keys, expertly crafted by the Hawks Cay Resort's professional culinary team. While you dine, you will be serenaded by live music that perfectly complements the enchanting ambiance. Take this opportunity to connect, network, and feel the soft, powdery sand beneath your feet as you gaze out at the shimmering waters of the Florida Keys.

NFFS Annual Meeting & Luncheon
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
12:00 – 1:30 p.m.

This closing luncheon is the “official” annual meeting of the Society, where members will be asked to vote to ratify the 2024 class of officers and directors for the Society. The Board of Directors and its operating committees will provide an annual report on their activities and successes over the past year. Finally, 2023 NFFS President Rolf Gretschmann will make his outgoing remarks and welcome the new 2024 incoming president.

"Hook and Cook" Adventure ($)
Friday, February 23, 2024  (NOTE: This is a pre-conference activity)
1:00 - 8:00 p.m. (program length 7 hours) 
Cost: $300
Minimum of 4 people required, 6 people max per boat

Specially designed for those of you who plan to arrive early to Duck Key, the NFFS "Hook and Cook" Adventure is the perfect team-building experience, including the warm, tropical atmosphere of the Florida Keys and including some friendly group competition. Start your adventure with a Florida Keys ocean fishing excursion mixed with camaraderie and the excitement of reeling in trophy game fish. Species such as Marlin, Sailfish, Swordfish, Mahi Mahi, Blackfin Tuna, Grouper, and more are all real possibilities! Upon return to Hawks Cay, your group will be treated to a chef-inspired dinner at the Angler & Ale restaurant, including a fabulous waterfront buffet and highlighted by your team's fresh-caught fish. 

Dockside Dolphin Adventure ($)
Sunday, February 25, 2024
Two times available: 10:45 a.m. (SOLD OUT), 2:15 p.m. (program length 30 minutes)
Cost: $100
Maximum of 8 people per session

If you don’t mind getting splashed, these friendly dolphins will meet you dockside. Enjoy all the fun with no swimming required. Following a short introduction into the world of dolphin training, the Dockside Dolphin Adventure allows you to feed, play and interact with our animals from the training dock. 

Dolphin Encounter Experience ($)
Sunday, February 25, 2024
12:45 p.m. (program length 45 minutes)
Cost: $180
Maximum of 12 tickets available

If you’ve ever dreamed of entering the water and playing with dolphins, this is your chance! Dolphin Encounter provides a high quality up-close and personal experience for each guest. Following instructions in our outdoor classroom which overlooks our beautiful dolphin lagoon, guests enter the water to hug, rub the dolphins melon, and splash and play with our dolphins for about 45 minutes. You’ll experience the power and playfulness of this amazing mammal in waist to chest deep water, on our submerged platform. Guests will be standing on a submerged platform for the entirety of the program. You will learn about the Dolphin's skills, strength, agility and intelligence. Our talented photographers will be capturing your experience throughout the program.

Cornhole Tournament
Sunday, February 25, 2024
12:00 – 3:00 p.m. 
Cost: Free 

The NFFS 2024 Cornhole Tournament is the perfect way to spend a warm, sunny afternoon in the Florida Keys! The tournament will be a blind draw, single elimination event following the rules and regulations set forth by the American Cornhole Association. Participants will be assigned a partner randomly to form individual teams, and each team will continue to play against other teams until they lose a game. The last team remaining will be the winners! Whether you are an avid cornhole enthusiast, or have never "tossed bags" in your life, this is the perfect opportunity to have some fun with your industry colleagues while participating in one of America’s fastest growing amateur sports.

Event sponsored by:

Spouse/Guest Breakfast with Morning Yoga
Monday, February 26, 2024
7:30 – 9:00 a.m. 
Cost: Free with the purchase of a Spouse/Guest registration, but pre-registration is required

Embrace the tranquility of the Florida Keys as we invite you to our “Guest breakfast with morning yoga” event, filled with serenity and rejuvenation to start your day! Against the backdrop of this picturesque coastal paradise, enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast experience that captures the essence of the tropical setting. Afterwards, embark on a journey of inner peace and wellness with a beachfront yoga session. Among the soothing sound of lapping waves and the gentle caress of tropical breezes, find your center and invigorate your spirit as you stretch and breathe in harmony with the surroundings. This event is a harmonious blend of nourishment for both body and soul, promising to create cherished memories of your time with your fellow conference attendees in the Florida Keys.

Spouse/Guest Breakfast with "Paint the Coconut" Workshop
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
7:30 – 9:00 a.m. 
Cost: Free with the purchase of a Spouse/Guest registration, but pre-registration is required

Join us for a special breakfast in the enchanting Florida Keys! Our “Paint the Coconut” workshop and breakfast event promises a delightful blend of sunshine, relaxation, and creativity. As the sun bathes our picturesque setting in golden hues, you and your fellow guests will indulge in a private breakfast spread that celebrates the flavors of the Keys. But that's not all – let your artistic side shine as we guide you through a fun craft project, where you'll transform ordinary coconuts into vibrant, beach-inspired masterpieces with paint and brushes. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a first-time painter, this event is an opportunity to bond, unwind, and take home a cherished piece of the Florida Keys to forever remind you of this unforgettable morning.

Sunset Cruise and Private Dinner ($)
Tuesday, February 27, 2024 (NOTE: This is a post-conference activity)
5:30 – 10:00 p.m. (program length 4 hours) 
Cost: $200
Maximum of 40 tickets available

The ultimate finale to your NFFS Industry Executive Conference. Enjoy a leisurely excursion and see our beautiful island, Duck Key, from the water, aboard our Group power catamaran. Watch the tropical sunset as it sinks toward the horizon on a Sunset Cruise. Cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours and includes a champagne toast at sunset. Soft drinks, sparkling water, bottled water and premium adult beverages are included at no extra cost. Reservations required. Family friendly. Upon return to Hawk's Cay, attendees will join NFFS for a private dinner event for a truly memorable conclusion to the 2024 NFFS Industry Executive Conference.

    2024 IEC Exhibitors

• APPI Energy (Table 1)
• THORS eLearning Solutions (Table 2)
• Inductotherm Corp. (Table 3)
• B & L Information Systems (Table 4)
• Estes (Table 5)
• Integrated Casting Order Network (Table 6)
• Foundry Solutions Metallurgical Services 
  (Table 7)
• Non-Ferrous Founders' Society (Table 8)
• Thermtronix Corp. (Table 9)
• Tinker Omega Sinto LLC (Table 10)
• MAGMA Foundry Technologies (Table 11)
• 3D Systems (Table 12)
• Bright As Energy (Table 13)