August 2024 Volume 6

FOUNDATION NEWS FIERF SCHOLARSHIPS & THEIR VITAL ROLE IN SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF FORGING

D id you know that the Forging Industry Educational & Research Foundation (FIERF) offers a variety of scholar ships to students each year? These scholarships are important for students and can be especially impactful for those interested in manufacturing – and specifically forging. While the forging industry covers a wide range of industries, such as automotive, aerospace, and medical, the next generation is often unaware or misguided when it comes to the variety of careers and opportunities in the sector. And despite its significance and impact on the world around us, the field faces challenges like an aging workforce and a shortage of younger talent. This skills gap highlights the importance of scholarships to attract bright minds into manufacturing. Financial barriers often prevent students from pursuing any type of higher education or professional development that can be costly. Scholarships help by providing financial support, allowing students to focus on their studies without worrying about debt. This support also lets them take part in internships and research that prepare them for successful careers. Scholarships can also help to attract top talent to the forging industry. By offering funds specifically for manufacturing-related fields, these programs show the industry's value and growth poten tial. They encourage students to consider the forging industry and its supply chain as a career and ensure a steady supply of skilled profes sionals ready to tackle industry challenges. In addition to financial aid, scholarship recipients are invited to engage in mentorship and networking opportunities. These connec tions introduce students to industry leaders, potential employers, and peers who share their passion for advancing manufacturing technolo gies. Such networks promote collaboration and innovation, giving scholarship recipients skills and insights for success in the industry. Diversity is another important aspect of scholarships in manufac turing. By promoting scholarships such as the Forging Industry Women’s Scholarship, the industry can tap into a broader talent pool. This inclusivity brings fresh perspectives and ideas, making the industry more innovative and competitive. FIERF Scholarship Programs The Forging Foundation awards scholarships each year to students interested in careers in the forging supply chain. First consideration is given to applicants with a connection to the forging industry. Appli cations open in January each year and are due in April. Recipients are selected by assigned FIERF scholarship committees and are then announced in July. Applicants may apply to all scholarships that they qualify for. Appli cants are only eligible to receive one award.

Edward F. Wozniak Memorial Scholarship: Endowed by Wozniak Industries, this scholarship awards up to $2,500 to full-time graduate and undergraduate students attending four-year colleges or univer sities; or up to $1,000 to students attending two-year community colleges or trade schools (pursuing degrees or certifications). Students must be attending a school in the following states: KY, TN, IN, IL, MI, IA, MO, AR, NC, SC, MS, AL, NE, OK, WI. Students must be studying in the fields of engineering or business. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or above and be a citizen of the United States, Canada or Mexico. 2024 Recipients:

• Jack Schaller, Michigan Technological University • Jack Williams, University of Wisconsin - Madison • Cody Carrico, Michigan Technological University

• Duncan McGee, Kettering University • Conner Bailey, Clemson University

Forging Industry Women’s Scholarship: The Forging Industry Women’s Scholarship was endowed by Sharon Haverstock in 2015. With the goal of attracting more women leaders to the forging industry, the scholarship provides awards of up to $5,000 to full-time graduate and undergraduate students attending a two- or four- year college or university in the fields of engineering, business or a compa rable area of study. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or above and be a citizen of the United States, Canada or Mexico. 2024 Recipients: Charles W. Finkl Scholarship: This scholarship was endowed by Finkl in 2004. Scholarships are awarded to college sophomores and juniors majoring in metallurgical, materials, mechanical, chemical, computer, electrical or industrial engineering at an accredited four year college or university. Awards are $2,000 in the junior year and an additional $2,000 in the senior year if the student remains eligible. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above and be a citizen of the United States, Canada or Mexico. 2024 Recipients: • Daniel Branagan, Michigan Technological University • Jessica Boeke, Highland Community College • Alexandra Cantrell, Colorado School of Mines • Abby Frisk, Ferris State University

• John Fennel, Penn State Erie - Behrend • Kailee Frenn, Penn State Erie - Behrend • Benjamin Gwinnell, University of Connecticut • Sydney Kilgore, Oakland University

FIA MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2024 66