The American Foundry Society (AFS), the largest professional and trade organisation serving the $52 billion metalcasting industry in the US, announced that Justin Scott PhD CAE, will become its next chief executive officer.
Scott will be the successor to longtime CEO Doug Kurkul, 66, who announced his intention to retire in spring 2025. Scott’s first day at AFS was 2nd February and he will spend much of the initial weeks of his tenure visiting members and chapters, as well as meeting the staff members. Kurkul and Scott will serve concurrently until Kurkul’s retirement date – 1st May 2026 – to ensure an orderly transition.
Scott has served as vice president for innovation and analytics at Metal Service Center Institute in the Chicago area since September 2021. Previously, he worked at The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society for more than eight years and at the IDA Science & Technology Policy Institute for more than two years. Across roles in associations and public policy, Scott has worked to bridge technical expertise, industry needs, and organisational strategy to strengthen manufacturing focused communities.
Scott earned a BS in mechanical engineering and material science engineering from the University of California at Berkeley in 2004 and a PhD in materials science and engineering from Northwestern University in 2010.
Scott was selected by a search committee co-chaired by AFS president David Gilson (SinterCast) and immediate past president Angela Schmeisser (St Marys Foundry). Other search committee members included John Lancaster (General Motors), Jeet Radia (McWane), Peter Reich (LaempeReich) and Brad Muller (Charlotte Pipe & Foundry).
“Justin Scott is uniquely qualified to carry on and build upon the strong foundations of advocacy, education, innovation and superior member service at AFS,” said David Gilson. “He was selected from more than 360 applicants, and his selection was ratified by the AFSboard of directors.”
“The American Foundry Society has an incredible legacy of technical leadership and industry stewardship,” said Scott. “I’m energised by the opportunity to serve as CEO and to partner with the AFS community at a pivotal moment for metal casting.”
Kurkul joined the AFS as CEO in January 2016, succeeding Jerry Call. During Kurkul’s tenure, the society has aggressively implemented a six-pillar strategic plan, grown its corporate membership from 794 to 1,115, expanded its technical and management programs, conducted a landmark economic impact study, introduced Foundry E-Learning, and bolstered its balance sheet by terminating the frozen defined benefit pension plan.