NFFS attends U.S. Navy Talent Pipeline Program 2024-26 Kickoff event

On November 14, 2024, the Non-Ferrous Founders’ Society (NFFS), represented by Jerrod Weaver, NFFS Executive Director; Bill Padnos, NFFS Director of Workforce Development; and John Danko & Paul Danko from Danko Arlington, proudly participated in the 2024-26 Enterprise+ Flag Team Kickoff & Networking Event for the U.S. Navy Talent Pipeline Program (TPP). This gathering wasn’t just another industry event—it brought together passionate leaders and changemakers united by a shared mission: ensuring that our maritime industrial base has the talent needed to keep our nation safe and secure.

For NFFS, this initiative resonates deeply. Workforce development isn’t a catchphrase—it’s the core of what we do. That’s why it was especially meaningful to see our Executive Director, Jerrod Weaver, address attendees with an update on how NFFS is stepping up to make a difference through the Navy TPP.

Jerrod spoke with heart and conviction, detailing our early efforts to support talent acquisition and retention among NFFS members participating in the first program cohort. His message was clear: NFFS is fully committed to working alongside our partners to ensure our members have the capacity to meet the Navy’s needs in building new ships and submarines.

A special moment of recognition

One of the event’s highlights came when RADM Casey Moton presented Jerrod with a Challenge Coin. This isn’t just a token—it’s a symbol of trust, respect, and recognition within the Navy community. For NFFS, it represented a celebration of our potential to make a significant impact on this program.

Reflecting on the honor, Jerrod shared, “This Challenge Coin is more than just a token—it represents the trust and partnership we’ve built with the Navy, TMG, and the broader workforce development community. It’s a reminder of why we do what we do.”

Why this matters

The Navy Talent Pipeline Program is about more than filling open positions; it’s about building a sustainable foundation for long-term success in expanding the defense industrial base. At NFFS, we see this as an opportunity to empower our members by helping them attract, develop, and retain talented individuals who are ready to contribute as productive and engaged team members.

This kickoff event was a powerful reminder of the value of collaboration. When industries, education, and government come together, the results can be transformational. NFFS is proud to stand at the forefront of this effort.

Looking ahead

As we continue our journey, we’re excited to explore new ways to support workforce development through the Navy TPP and beyond. This is just the beginning, and we’re eager to see the progress we’ll achieve together.

To the eight member companies already enrolled in this important initiative—thank you for your dedication. And to those who haven’t joined yet, we encourage you to get involved and help us strengthen our nation’s workforce.

Together, we’re building the workforce of tomorrow, one step at a time.