In the world of manufacturing, metallurgy is more than just a technical skill—it’s the backbone of industries like aerospace, defense, and renewable energy. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) is one university leading the charge to fill the growing skills gap in this essential field through its partnership with Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship & Learning (METAL). The university conducted its second METAL bootcamp during spring break, March 17-25, 2025.
METAL is a workforce development initiative led by IACMI-The Composites Institute that aims to address critical shortages in the U.S industrial base. Hands-on METAL bootcamps not only help train the next generation of manufacturers, but also ignite a passion for metalworking in participants.
“I think that this bootcamp is extremely valuable because you really don’t have access to this type of equipment, especially as a student,” said Adry Lain, a University of Tennessee Mechanical Engineering student who participated in the UTK METAL bootcamp. “So, being able to come here and get this level of experience is something you wouldn’t be able to see anywhere else, really.”
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
METAL bootcamps tap into participants’ talents and interests. From art students to engineering majors, bootcamp attendees dive into the world of metallurgy, gaining invaluable experience and forging connections across disciplines.
The recent five-day bootcamp at the University of Tennessee Art and Architecture building allowed students to cast aluminum into 3-D printed sand molds, cast bronze into sand resin molds, conduct machining and sand blasting and participate in a virtual reality foundry tour. They also engaged in discussions with the Foundry Education Foundation and Steel Founders Society of America.
“The different types of casting that we’re doing range from sand to plaster to different types of investment molding, so we’re really getting a full spectrum of the type of casting that we’re seeing here,” Lain said. “Bronze is an insanely high temperature cast. It’s closer to steel than anything else, so when we’re doing bronze, this is the real deal, unlike just doing aluminum casting at home. It’s a really fun and friendly environment to learn in.”
The experience empowered students to understand metallurgy and participate in cutting-edge industry advancements. These skills are not only crucial for industries like defense manufacturing but also contribute to the broader goals of technological innovation and industrial advancement.
Why METAL Matters
As industries across the globe turn to advanced manufacturing to drive innovation, skilled metalworkers are in high demand.
Programs like METAL bootcamps are integral to developing a talented workforce to advance critical fields, including defense technology and sustainable infrastructure.
According to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), the U.S. is projected to face a shortfall of 2.1 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030, with a deficit of 383,000 skilled workers needed to support industries like casting and forging.
These shortages put critical defense capabilities – like U.S. Navy shipbuilding – at risk. By nurturing a skilled workforce to meet the nation’s needs, METAL for America helps keep America’s defense base strong.
Learn more about the METAL Movement
Whether you’re a student exploring career options, a professional looking to reskill, or someone passionate about the intersection of art and engineering, METAL has something for you. Stay updated on future bootcamps and other educational opportunities by visiting MetalforAmerica.org and following us on social media.