November 2025 Volume 7

FOUNDATION NEWS

FORGING THE FUTURE: EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT & INNOVATION FROM THE FORGING FOUNDATION By FIA Staff

T he Forging Industry Educational and Research Foundation (FIERF) continues to lead efforts to attract, educate, and support the next generation of forging professionals. Through a growing network of educational partnerships, scholarships, competitions, and research initiatives, the Foundation is forging strong connections between industry and academia—laying the groundwork for a skilled, future-ready workforce.

• Michigan • Michigan Technological University – Partner: Cornell Forge • New York • Alfred University – Partner: Charter Steel • SUNY Canton – Partner Needed • Ohio • University of Cincinnati – Partner Needed • Pennsylvania • Carnegie Mellon University – Partner: Ellwood Group • Lehigh University – Partner: Lehigh Heavy Forge • Millersville University – Partner: Lehigh Heavy Forge • University of Pittsburgh – Partner: Ellwood Group • Vermont • The Putney School – Partner Needed • Wisconsin • Blackhawk Technical College – Partner: Scot Forge Note: Industry partners are still needed for several schools. Interested companies are encouraged to contact FIERF to get involved. FIERF Scholarships: Investing in Tomorrow’s Talent Each year, FIERF awards scholarships to students pursuing careers in engineering and business. These scholarships not only offer financial support but also connect students with opportunities in the industry. Available Scholarships Applications open in January and are due in April 2026. First consideration is given to applicants with a connection to the forging industry. Edward F. Wozniak Memorial Scholarship • Up to $2,500 (four-year schools) or $1,000 (two-year/trade schools) • Eligible states: KY, TN, IN, IL, MI, IA, MO, AR, NC, SC, MS, AL, NE, OK, WI • Fields: Engineering or Business • GPA: 2.75+ • Open to U.S., Canadian, and Mexican citizens Forging Industry Women’s Scholarship • Up to $5,000 • Open to women pursuing engineering, business, or related fields • GPA: 2.75+ • Citizens of the U.S., Canada, or Mexico

Forging Club Grants: Expanding Hands-On Learning Nationwide Launched in 2024, the Forging Club Grant program has rapidly expanded, supporting the creation and growth of student-led forging clubs across high schools and colleges. These grants provide resources to help students gain hands-on experience with forging processes, develop technical skills, and explore careers in the industry. Through Foundation and FIA member sponsorship, there are now 14 college forging clubs and three high school forging clubs. Participating Schools & Industry Partners • Arizona • Grand Canyon University – Partner: Valley Forge & Bolt Mfg. • California • La Jolla Country Day High School – Partner Needed • Connecticut • University of Connecticut – Partner: Consolidated Industries Inc. • Florida • University of Florida – Partner Needed • Georgia • University of Georgia – Partner: Trenton Forging • Illinois • Decatur Eisenhower High School – Partner: IMT CJ Forge • Indiana • Purdue University – Partner: Steel Dynamics, Inc.

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