Join the AFS Young Professionals in Neenah, Wisconsin, for an energizing and inspiring event designed to cultivate the next generation of metalcasting leaders. This multi-day experience is packed with meaningful opportunities for professional growth, peer connection, and industry insight. All of this for ONE great price 

What You’ll Experience:

• TWO Exclusive Foundry Tours of Waupaca Foundry and Neenah Foundry
  • Step inside two of the industry’s most respected operations for a behind-the-scenes look at innovation, excellence, and advanced manufacturing in action.
  • Breakfast before the tours at the Best Western Premier Bridgewood Hotel.
  • Lunch at Neenah Foundry
• TWO Meaningful Networking Opportunities
  • Build valuable connections with fellow young professionals who are committed to personal growth, professional advancement, and the future of the metalcasting industry.  The first one is on 11/3 at Batley’s Grill and Bar, which is attached to the Best Western Premier Bridgewood Hotel
• Keynote Presentation by Tracy Nelson of Badger Talks - UW Madison delivering Courage & Candor: Effectively Navigating Difficult Conversations

Difficult conversations are part of every workplace, whether addressing concerns, clearing up misunderstandings, or giving honest feedback. Tracy helps participants understand why these moments can feel uncomfortable and how emotional reactions can affect communication.

You will learn practical strategies to stay calm, prepare with clarity, reduce tension, and respond constructively. This session focuses on building confidence, strengthening trust, and improving communication—essential leadership skills at every level.

• Key Takeaways:
  • Recognize when conversations become uncomfortable or avoided
  • Understand how emotions impact communication
  • Identify personal triggers and response patterns
  • Pause, regroup, and respond thoughtfully
  • Prepare for difficult conversations with greater confidence
  • Reduce tension and avoid escalation
  • Use respectful language, including effective “I” statements
  • Deliver feedback in a constructive way
  • Strengthen understanding, trust, and workplace relationships
• Transportation provided from the Best Western Premier Bridgewood Resort Hotel to both Neenah Foundry, Waupaca Foundry and Appleton Axe Throwing 
• An Evening of Great Food and High-Energy Fun—On Us
  • Unwind and connect with peers over a complimentary dinner and beverages, then enjoy a memorable evening of friendly competition at Appleton Axe Throwing. We have the entire place to play yard games, escape room and much more.  Try your hand at Hammerschlagen!  Another amazing opportunity to network.  
• Recognition of Excellence
  • Celebrate achievement as we present the 5th Annual Sinto Young Professional Educational Scholarship to an outstanding student

Whether you are stepping into leadership now or preparing for what’s next, this event offers the insights, relationships, and momentum to help you grow your career and make an impact on the future of metalcasting.