Explore careers in metal casting at UNI’s Open Melt Night on January 27

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa - The American Foundry Society student chapter at the University of Northern Iowa will host an Open Melt Night on Tuesday, January 27, from 5-8 p.m. Open Melt Night provides students considering careers in manufacturing, engineering or skilled trades a hands-on opportunity to learn from metal casting professionals representing a variety of industry sectors. Participants can create their own mold, observe live demonstrations, and explore projects created by UNI students.

Sponsored by the John Deere Foundry, the free event is especially geared toward high school students exploring future career paths and current UNI students who are still deciding on a major. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are required. Interested attendees should RSVP by completing an online registration form. Space is limited to 15 participants per session, with three one-hour time slots available.

"Open Melt Night is a great way for students to experience the casting process up close and see the creativity and technical skills involved," said Professor Scott Giese. "Through the process of making a mold and pouring molten metal into the mold, participants gain a better appreciation of the foundry industry and its impact on producing consumer goods."

UNI's Metal Casting Center is a nationally recognized leader in foundry research, metal manufacturing, applied technology and technical business assistance. With revolutionary metal casting, molding and 3D printing equipment, the Metal Casting Center is able to utilize its equipment to advance learning and push the boundaries of technology.

One of the most advanced foundry laboratories in the world, the center is located in UNI's newly renovated applied engineering building, which supports engineering and construction management programs built around hands-on, real-world learning. UNI does engineering differently, with less theory and more career-ready skills with small class sizes, one-on-one faculty support and direct collaboration with industry partners who help shape curriculum to address today's needs and provide internship and job opportunities.

Students gain experience in state-of-the-art labs, preparing them for in-demand careers across advanced manufacturing and related industries. UNI engineering programs are among Iowa's most affordable four-year engineering degrees and consistently achieve strong career placement outcomes.

For more information about engineering programs at UNI, visit degrees.uni.edu/engineering.

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If you need a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this event, please contact Dr. Scott Giese at 319-273-7083 prior to the event.