History 

AFS traces its roots to 1896, when 220 charter members of the American Foundrymen's Association met in Philadelphia. In the years that followed, the organization pursued key priorities including advancing the science of metallurgy used in castings, and improving safety and health conditions in the industry. In 1948, the organization's name was changed, with "Association" becoming "Society." Over time, another organization, the American Cast Metals Association, grew in importance as a management and advocacy organization for the industry. The two organizations merged in 1990, providing a unified industry voice on governmental matters affecting the metalcasting industry. From the early 1900s, sustainable excellence in metalcasting education has been a cornerstone of AFS service to the industry, and is now embodied in the AFS Institute. In 2000, the official name was changed from American Foundrymen's Society to American Foundry Society.

Vision

AFS will be recognized worldwide by industry stakeholders as the leading voice and resource on technical, management, and advocacy priorities pertaining to the metalcasting industry.   

Mission

The mission of the American Foundry Society is to advance the success of its members and the metalcasting industry through advocacy, education, and innovation.  

Goals

  Member Success and Sustainability

AFS will provide services, information and networking opportunities that are vital to the success of individual members, as well as Corporate Member metalcasters, suppliers, and casting purchasers.

  Industry Stewardship

AFS will lead outreach activities to enhance the image of the metalcasting industry with target audiences. 

  Policy Advocacy

AFS will proactively advocate for public policies that benefit U.S. metalcasters, encourage a strong U.S. industrial base, and support national defense.  

  Promotion of Castings

AFS will advocate for the increased use of castings through the development of new parts and materials, conversions, exports, and reshoring, and will offer resources helping casting purchasers to make wise purchasing decisions.     

  Talent Development

AFS and the Institute will lead talent development initiatives and provide innovative education programs that meet customer needs and increase the skill levels of metalcasting industry workers.  

  Technical Innovation

AFS will exercise technical leadership in the areas of technology transfer, scholarly publication, cutting-edge research, and technical assistance to drive innovation in the metalcasting industry. 

Contact Details

Address: American Foundry Society

1695 North Penny Lane

Schaumburg, IL 60173

Tel: +1-800/537-4237, +1-847/824-0181

Fax: +1-847/824-7848

Web: https://www.afsinc.org/