Cleveland, OH – July 31, 2024 - The Forging Foundation (FIERF) proudly concluded its 2nd Annual Forge the Future Camp, held at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) in Cleveland, OH. This year's event which took place July 8-10, 2024, brought together 13 enthusiastic students eager to explore the world of forging and the diverse career opportunities within the industry.

The camp kicked off with an engaging tour of Tri-C, where students gained insights into the college’s various programs. Following the tour, participants were treated to a welding demonstration that showcased different welding techniques. The afternoon session exposed students to the fundamentals of forging, with an introduction facilitated by Pursuit Aerospace and an overview of metallurgy by SIFCO Industries. Presentations from Alcoa and Enprotech further enlightened them on the processes and applications of forging. The day ended with an interactive game of forging trivia, testing the students' new knowledge.

The second day of the camp was a highlight for many, featuring an immersive facility tour of Rose Iron Works, LLC. Students observed forging processes up close before heading to MAGNET, The Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network of Northeast Ohio. There, they explored various manufacturing careers through engaging activities and had the opportunity to meet Otis, the Robodog.

The final day of the camp the campers participated in a heat treating and combustion activity, facilitated by FIVES North American Combustion, Inc. Using frozen cookie dough, they engaged in a hands-on session to create edible forgings with 3D printed dies. The morning continued with a lively game of “Measurement BINGO”, with each camper receiving a Milwaukee Tool tape measure to assist in finding items of specific lengths around the room.

To cap off the camp, Mason Weems from the Colorado School of Mines demonstrated forging techniques and crafted various items for students to take home. Thanks to Finkl Steel, campers had the opportunity to punch their own die and use 3D printed tools and clay to design and create personalized forgings. Each camper departed with a deeper understanding of forging, career insights, memorable giveaways, new friends and plenty of candy.

FIERF extends its gratitude to the industry partners whose support made this camp possible. Their contributions were instrumental in delivering a valuable educational experience. We look forward to expanding and enhancing these programs in 2025, continuing to inspire and educate the next generation of forging professionals.

About the Forging Foundation (FIERF):
Established in 1961, the Forging Industry Educational and Research Foundation (FIERF) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Operating as a “supporting organization” to the Forging Industry Association (FIA). FIERF is dedicated to promoting the forging industry and supporting educational initiatives that inspire and train the next generation of forging professionals. Through research projects, scholarships, hands-on learning experiences and industry partnerships, FIERF strives to cultivate a skilled workforce and advance the future of forging.