AFS IN ACTION

Abstract

Began Becomes Vice Chair of the METAL for America Advisory Network Brian Began, AFS Vice President of Metalcasting Technical Services, was recently appointed vice chair for the METAL (Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship 8c Learning) Program, run by AFS Corporate Member IACMI and funded by the Office of the Secretary of Defense within the United States Department Of Defense (DOD). Dive into compelling case studies and dynamic discussions on cutting-edge molding technologies, environmental compliance, and process evaluation. AFS CHAPTER NEWS TRI-STATE CHAPTER SUPPORTS STUDENTS The AFS Tri-State chapter's Robbie Cook presented a $1,000 check to support the Pittsburgh State University student team (a two-time winner) in their efforts in the 2025 Casting In Steel competition. Team members Austin Fraize and Gabe Galindo received the check at a recent open house at Pittsburg State University.

AFS Digital Library Reaches Over 18,000 Resources

The Peters-Robison AFS Metalcasting Library has reached a new milestone, now offering over 18,000 digital resources to AFS members. As one of the most comprehensive collections dedicated to metalcasting research and industry knowledge, the library continues support for innovation, education, and technical advancements. The growing collection includes AFS Transactions, Modern Casting, Castings Source, AFS Conference Proceedings, AFS research reports, and links to International Journal of Metalcasting (IJMC) articles. To access the Peters-Robison AFS Metalcasting Library, AFS members can visit AFSinc.org/library.

To access AFS Library Advanced AI Search, go to http://afslibraryaisearch. com/. For more information, email Assistant Technical Director of Metalcasting Services Bo Wallace at [email protected].

AFS Technical Editor Sue Thomas Retires

Sue Thomas, senior technical editor of AFS Technical Publications retired June 13 and was feted by her colleagues at a luncheon in Schaumburg, Illinois. Following is a tribute prepared by IJMC Editor Tom Prucha, which was published in the journal's most recent issue.

The Definition of Meticulous^ Tribute to Sue Thomas. If you Google "technical editing," you'll find a definition that describes it as a meticulous process- one that ensures technical documents are accurate, clear, consistent, and meaningful to their intended audience. It's a detail-driven job that involves working closely with authors-often subject matter experts-to get the technical language right, ensure diagrams and equations are properly used, and shape the document into something that truly communicates. This effort is characterized by precision, clarity, objectivity, and a formal style that reflects the rigor of scientific inquiry. For those involved in authoring and producing the vast array of AFS technical publications, that definition could simply say: See Sue Thomas.

Sue Thomas ... is the definition of meticulous and has been the gold standard of technical editing at AFS for 35 years. She began as executive editor of Modern Casting with a degree in Materials Engineering- specializing in metallurgy-from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), along with real-world experience in casting and machining. But what sets Sue apart, and still does, is her ability to take complex technical information and help make it clear, correct, and publishable.

Our authors and technical committee members know this all too well: Knowing your subject and explaining it clearly are two very different things. That's where Sue has always stepped in-not just fixing grammar or spelling, but finding the right terminology, clarifying technical points, and making sure that what an author meant to say is what actually ends up in print. This isn't easy- especially when dealing with the nuanced language of metalcasting, metallurgy, and, yes, sandology.

After three-and-a-half decades of guiding AFS books, handbooks, Transaction papers, and International Journal of Metalcasting (IJMC) submissions from draft to publication, Sue is officially retiring at the end of June. Her retirement comes at a milestone moment: the growing collaboration between AFS Transactions and the IJMC.

Thanks in part to her efforts, authors now have the opportunity to publish in both outlets-seamlessly.

One recent comment from a frequent contributor sums it up well: "Thank you for your support in completing the AFS/IJMC paper process. For a second year in a row, the process was seamless. I appreciate the hard work and effort from both teams! - Vic and Pat LaFay, CSA, LLC."

An upcoming IJMC issue will feature 25 papers from the 2025 Vol. 133

AFS Transactions-a major achievement that simply wouldn't have happened without Sue's behind-the-scenes work editing early versions, coordinating revisions, and guiding authors through the process.

She's leaving some big shoes to fill, but after years of meticulous work in the world of metalcasting, we hope she gets to apply those same skills to something a little more relaxing-like her garden.

She will be deeply missed.

Began Becomes Vice Chair of the METAL for America Advisory Network

Brian Began, AFS Vice President of Metalcasting Technical Services, was recently appointed vice chair for the METAL (Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship 8c Learning) Program, run by AFS Corporate Member IACMI and funded by the Office of the Secretary of Defense within the United States Department Of Defense (DOD). METAL, which was formed to address workforce shortages in the U.S. casting and forging industry through immersive K-12 workshops and university boot-camps, just ratified its bylaws in May 2025. For details about the program, email Began at [email protected]. E

IJMC Editor Awarded, Journal Metrics Released

Tom Prucha, editor of the International Journal of Metalcasting (IJMC) was recently recognized by the journal's publishing company, Springer Nature Publications, with the Author Service Award and the Editorial Contribution Award for his contributions to the journal.

Springer Chief Scientific Officer Ritu Dhand wrote: "By rewarding you, we recognize the vital role you play in managing the peer review process and demonstrate our commitment to showcasing these activities. We greatly appreciate the time and expertise you dedicate to helping authors improve their manuscripts and are proud to work with you to build successful journals. Congratulations and thank you for your dedication to your authors and advancing discovery!"

Recently, metrics were released for IJMC: The Impact Factor, a ratio metric reflecting the frequency of paper references, held constant for a second straight year, while the Journal CiteScore and Usage impressively increased year over year by 16% and 43%, respectively. The increase in CiteScore and Usage combined with the

Impact Factor holding true establishes that the growth of IJMC, which recently increased to six issues per year while achieving a record 608 submissions last year, is successfully growing without sacrificing quality. IJMC is complimentary to AFS Corporate Members and available for subscription to others. For more information, send an email to [email protected].

Make Plans to Attend the 37th Environmental, Health & Safety Conference

The AFS Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Conference returns for its 37th year as the premier event for foundry industry EHS professionals. Taking place October 7-9 in Green Lake, Wisconsin, the conference brings together leading experts and peers to discuss the latest developments, innovations, and best practices in foundry EHS. From foundry case studies to updates from Washington, D.C., to networking with other professionals, this event has what you need to enhance your knowledge, EHS programs, and performance.

HR Pros Head to Workforce Strategies Roundtable

" Foundry Forward: HR

r Strategies for the Met-alcasting Workforce Round-table" is coming to Milwaukee August 12, an opportunity for HR professionals to learn from their industry peers across the metalcasting sector. Whether you represent a small, family-owned foundry or a large corporate operation, you'll gain actionable insights into how HR leaders are leveraging innovative technology, addressing talent acquisition challenges, and driving employee engagement in todays dynamic environment. Cap off the day with an unforgettable evening of networking at the ballpark! Watch the Milwaukee Brewers take on the Pittsburgh Pirates from the Johnsonville Party Deck, with exclusive stadium seating overlooking right field.

Expand Your Sand Knowledge

Register for the AFS Sand Conference in Pittsburgh September 9-10. Dive into compelling case studies and dynamic discussions on cutting-edge molding technologies, environmental compliance, and process evaluation. Network with peers through process-focused presentations that spotlight real-world applications, showcasing advancements in process improvement and technology transfer. You'll learn about new methodologies and state-of-the-art equipment.

AFS CHAPTER NEWS

TRI-STATE CHAPTER SUPPORTS STUDENTS

The AFS Tri-State chapter's Robbie Cook presented a $1,000 check to support the Pittsburgh State University student team (a two-time winner) in their efforts in the 2025 Casting In Steel competition. Team members Austin Fraize and Gabe Galindo received the check at a recent open house at Pittsburg State University. The 2025 event challenge was to make one of George Washington's swords. Out of 47 entries, Pittsburg State

University placed third overall, second in performance, and got a Honorable Mention in team video.

WISCONSIN CHAPTER HONORS ITS 'OLD TIMERS'

On May 19, the Wisconsin Chapter celebrated members who have been in the industry for 40 years or more.

MID-ATLANTIC MEMBERS HEAD TO THE BALLPARK

Fifty members of the chapter had a grand time at the Lancaster Stormers stadium May 16.

AFS SAGINAW VALLEY HITS THE LINKS

The chapter held its 75th annual golf outing on June 7 at Swan Valley Golf Course, a four-man scramble that featured many prizes, lunch and dinner, as well as countless memories.

SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN COMES OUT SWINGING

The Southwest Michigan chapter enjoyed a golf outing June 14 at Olde Mill Golf Course in Schoolcraft. Loads of prizes, hotdogs mid-round, and a raffle made for a great day.

AFS CHAPTER ROUNDUP

The Texas Chapter Family Outing was held at Mar-garitaville Resort in Lake Conroe June 6-8. An event highlight was the Jerry Nagel Golf Classic, and attendees enjoyed receptions (one with golf and baseball simulator), a dinner, and an after party.

The Plains State AFS Chapter held its annual golf outing June 6 the Lew Wentz Golf Course in Ponca City Oklahoma. Following the practice round on Friday, the group met for dinner at EL Patio Mexican Restaurant.

Northern Indiana Chapter's 30th Annual FEF/Trine Golf Outing was June 7 at Zoll-ner Golf Course in Angola. Hosted by the Mechanical Engineering Cast Metals Advisory Board, the event was punctuated with prizes and a raffle.

The annual Southwest Ohio AFS Golf Outing was June 9 at the Hamilton Elks Golf Club. All proceeds of the event went to the Foundry Educational Foundation, providing scholarships to students planning to go into the casting industry.

The AFS Pittsburgh Chapter Golf Outing was June 11 at Pheasant Ridge Golf Club. Contests and prizes as well as lunch and dinner made for a fun day with industry friends.

The Stateline Chapter held its golf outing June 20 at Timber Point Golf Club in Poplar Grove, Illinois. The group enjoyed lunch and valuable raffle prizes donated by members.

See the Chapter Events Calendar at https://bit.ly/ AFS-Chapter-Events.