May 2026 Volume 8

INDUSTRY NEWS

FIA ANNOUNCES ADDITION OF TWO NEW DIRECTORS

T he Forging Industry Association (FIA), the leading trade association representing the North American forging industry, is pleased to announce the addition of two new team members: Matt Gallaugher, Ph.D., as Technical Director and Spencer Bell as Director of Government Relations. As the voice of the forging industry, FIA works to support member companies through technical leadership, education, advocacy, and industry collaboration. The addition of these two experienced professionals reflects FIA’s continued commitment to advancing innovation, strengthening industry representation, and delivering value to its members.

“We are excited to welcome Matt and Spencer to the FIA team at an important time for our industry,” Mark Ames, President & CEO of the Forging Industry Association said. “Their combined expertise in technical leadership and government advocacy will strengthen FIA’s ability to serve members through innovation, education, and representation.” FIA is confident that both Gallaugher and Bell will play important roles in advancing the association’s mission and supporting the future success of the forging industry.

In his role as Technical Director, Gallaugher will lead efforts to enhance FIA’s technical programs, education initiatives, and industry research activities. He has gained more than 15 years of experience in materials engineering, technical innovation, and cross-functional project leadership. His career includes leadership roles with Momentive Technologies, Swagelok, AK Steel, Atomic Energy Canada, and Bodycote Materials Testing. He Government Relations, where he will support the association’s advocacy efforts on behalf of forging industry stakeholders. His nearly 20-year career in government affairs includes extensive experience in legislative and regulatory analysis, appropriations forecasting, policy advocacy, and government relations. Bell began his career working for his local member of the U.S. House of Representatives, helping manage federal offices before serving as a Legislative Assistant on

Matt Gallaugher, Ph.D.

holds a Ph.D. in Materials Engineering from McGill University and offers deep expertise in product and process development, metallurgy, failure analysis, technical training, and research. Bell joins FIA as Director of

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Spencer Bell

Capitol Hill, where he handled a range of manufacturing-related policy issues. He later worked on issue and political campaigns in Florida and went on to support national organizations and trade associations in Washington, D.C., including the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, by providing policy analysis, advocacy, and government relations support. Bell has since specialized in representation before Congress, the administration, and the Department of Defense, bringing valuable expertise in advancing public policy priorities that support industry. He earned a Master’s in Political Science and a Graduate Certificate in Analysis from Virginia Tech in 2025.

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FIA MAGAZINE | MAY 2026 64