February 2026 Volume 8

OPERATIONS & MANAGEMENT

expand. Preparing the next generation for this reality means equipping them not just with tools, but with context, confidence and a seat at the table. Finally, we must broaden how we define manufacturing careers. Marketing roles in forging combine creativity with technical learning, strategy with storytelling and business insight with human connection. Highlighting these paths attracts diverse talent who may not have previously seen themselves in manufacturing but are eager to make a meaningful impact. The next generation of talent has a strong desire to contribute and find their place in the world, while making a mark. Developing the next generation of marketers is not just about filling roles. It is about ensuring our industry remains visible, relevant and understood. By investing in marketing and mentorship today, we strengthen the voice of forging for decades to come. This requires all our forging leaders to actively participate…through internships, speaking engagements, community involvement, partnerships with local high schools and universities. Telling the story of our industry requires us to develop marketers. This is a shared responsibility across the industry. When the industry collectively invests time and access, we create a stronger, more informed voice for forging and ensure our story is told accurately and confidently.

Laura Diedrich (Scot Forge), FIA Marketing Committee Chair & Member of the Women in Forging Committee Phone: 773-914-2978 Email: LDiedrich@scotforge.com

Rotary Hearth & Batch Forge Furnaces

Continuous Pusher Furnaces Mesh & Cast Belt Furnaces Roller Hearth Tray Furnaces Allcase ® Batch Integral Quench Furnaces Uni-DRAW ® Batch Temper Furnaces RX ® & DX ® Atmosphere Gas Generators

Surface ® furnace solutions for forging Our rugged, reliable furnaces for preheat and forged component heat treatment are right at home in your forge operations.

surfacecombustion.com 1-800-537-8980 info@surfacecombustion.com

FIA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2026 43