2027 AFS Institute Courses

Tuesday, April 20, 2027
8 – 10 a.m.
Preview: Introduction to Supervisor Development

Jim White, Expert Consultant

The preview of this popular management course covers a wide range of topics including team leadership, communication, employment issues, and building on your success as a leader in both union and non-union shops.
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Preview: Metalcasting for Purchasing Professionals (NEW)

Jim White, Expert Consultant

The preview of this NEW course is aimed at buyers and supplier development professionals who are new to the metalcasting industry. They will learn about the casting process, how to manage suppliers, diagnose quality and defect issues, and elements of PPAP.
Wednesday, April 21, 2027
8 – 10 a.m.
The 10-Step Method for Corrective Action Part I

Patrick Kluesner, Expert Consultant 

Participants will be introduced to a basic overview of a casting defect analysis procedure: identification, composing a problem statement, recording process parameters, identifying the correct defect and its root cause for correction action. This course is an introduction to navigating the practical handbook, International Atlas of Casting Defects.
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
The 10-Step Method for Corrective Action Part II

Patrick Kluesner, Expert Consultant 

Participants will be introduced to a basic overview of a casting defect analysis procedure: identification, composing a problem statement, recording process parameters, identifying the correct defect and its root cause for correction action. This course is an introduction to navigating the practical handbook, International Atlas of Casting Defects.
Thursday, April 22, 2027
8 – 10 a.m.
Preview: Practical Robotics and Automation for Foundries (NEW)

Brandon Vaillancourt, ATD Engineering & Machine


An introduction to the latest Institute course provides an overview of the practical framework for evaluating, designing, and sustaining robotic and automation systems in foundry operations, with an emphasis on real-world decision-making, common failure modes, and foundry-specific trade-offs.