NFFS Mary & Louis Iannettoni Memorial Scholarship
Offered by Non-Ferrous Founders' Society (NFFS)
About This Scholarship
The Non-Ferrous Founders' Society represents foundries that cast aluminum, brass, bronze, and other non-ferrous metals. Its Mary & Louis Iannettoni Memorial Scholarship pays $2,500 to a student or working adult training for a career in metal casting, and the money can go toward tuition, fees, books, or tools.
The program is broader than most foundry awards. It covers certificate and degree programs in foundry technology, metallurgy and materials science, mechanical or manufacturing engineering, and industrial maintenance or mechatronics, at technical schools, community colleges, or universities. High school seniors, current college students, and employees of NFFS member companies who want to go back to school can all apply.
The one hard requirement is a recommendation letter from an NFFS member company. Students who have interned or worked at a non-ferrous foundry are in the best position, but others can reach out to a member foundry in their area. Winners also agree to send NFFS a one-year update on their career progress.
Eligibility
- Current employees of NFFS member companies enrolled in, or planning to enroll in, a metal-casting-related certificate or degree program
- Students who have interned, worked, or been mentored by an NFFS member company
- High school seniors or post-secondary students in technical or engineering programs leading to a metal casting career
- Qualifying fields include foundry technology, metallurgy and materials science, mechanical or manufacturing engineering, and industrial maintenance or mechatronics
- Must submit a recommendation letter from an NFFS member company
- Must commit to giving NFFS a one-year update on career progress
How To Apply
- Create a student account on the Foundry Educational Foundation site (fefinc.org/students)
- Ask an NFFS member company for a recommendation letter
- Write an essay on your career goals and interest in the metal casting industry
- Choose the Non-Ferrous Founders' Society Scholarship at fefinc.org/scholarships and complete the NFFS application form linked from the NFFS Scholarship Program page
- Submit by February 1, 2027; applications without a recommendation letter and essay are not considered
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to work for an NFFS member company?
No. Member company employees are one eligible group, but high school seniors and college students in metal-casting-related programs can also apply. Every applicant needs a recommendation letter from an NFFS member company.
What can the $2,500 be used for?
NFFS says the award can cover tuition, fees, books, or tools for an eligible certificate or degree program.
Do I need to attend a four-year university?
No. Technical schools and community colleges qualify along with universities.