Our reader surveys consistently tell us the same thing. Metal Casting Design & Purchasing readers appreciate the a) casting innovations and conversion case studies, b) articles on process and material selection and c) practical design information they receive in MCDP and nowhere else.

Similarly, casting designers, purchasers and specifiers will be gathering in Fort Worth, Texas, from April 3-5 of this year, for the annual AFS Metalcasting Congress. They will be there—and I hope you will be there as well—because it makes them better in the work and profession.

“Wait,” you might say, “isn’t Metalcasting Congress only for foundries and foundry suppliers?” The truth is that many, many successful casting buyers and designers make it a point to attend Metalcasting Congress every spring, for some of the same reasons they read MCDP.

Dozens of foundries will be exhibiting in the Cast in North America section of the show floor. Each exhibit will be staffed by technical and sales personnel who are able to respond to the full range of inquiries and questions you might have. In some cases, you’ll be able to strengthen a relationship with a foundry you already buy from, while in others, you can develop new relationships or explore the benefits of converting a project to a casting.

Your floor pass will also serve as your ticket to several compelling addresses. Renowned economist Stephen Moore, who advised the Trump campaign in 2016 and counseled congressional leaders on the recent adoption of tax-reform legislation, will be the Keynote Speaker on April 5. He will provide insight that will benefit you and your company’s financial planning for the year to come.

AFS Vice President Jean Bye, the President and CEO of Dotson Iron Castings, will provide a Keynote Address on April 3, describing her firm’s experience in recovering from a major fire. On April 4, Dan Oman of Haley Aldrich will deliver the annual Hoyt Lecture on environmental, safety and health matters.

Moreover, the AFS Institute will be providing a session on effective practices in a diverse workforce. Other topics and speakers will be presented at the Hub on the show floor nearly every hour. An optional tour of Midland Manufacturing Co. foundry in Fort Worth will be offered, as well.

Those purchasing an Exhibits & Education pass will be able to attend a number of sessions of interest specific to them, including topics on material and process developments, casting design advancements, simulation software, and identifying casting defects. All of this will occur in one of the nation’s top destinations for business travel, the intriguing community of Fort Worth.

For more information, please contact Ben Yates, AFS Vice President for Business Development, at 800-537-4237, or byates@afsinc.org. We look forward to seeing you in Fort Worth!