34 EICF International Conference & Exhibition

Welcome Message from the EICF Chairman

Dear Colleagues, 

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the EICF International Conference 2026.

Each year, our conference provides a unique opportunity for the global investment casting community to come together, exchange knowledge, and reflect on the future of our industry. In 2026, we continue this tradition with a programme that not only highlights technical excellence, but also addresses the broader challenges that will shape our sector in the years ahead.

The strength of the investment casting industry has always been rooted in innovation, precision, and an unwavering commitment to quality. This year’s technical sessions demonstrate that this spirit remains very much alive. Across both days, we will explore advances in ceramic shell systems, melting and solidification technologies, process monitoring, simulation, digitalisation, and the growing role of artificial intelligence. These contributions reflect the impressive level of research, engineering expertise, and practical experience present within our community.

At the same time, we recognise that technology alone is not enough. Our industry is facing an equally important challenge: how to attract, develop, and retain the skilled people who make technical progress possible. For this reason, the 2026 programme places a strong emphasis on workforce development, knowledge transfer, and leadership.

The keynote address by Dr. Sharon Grossman will set the tone by focusing on daily practices that strengthen engagement and organisational resilience. This theme continues on the second day through our plenary panel discussion and the dedicated Theme Seminar, where industry leaders will share practical experiences on training, mentoring, succession planning, and the effective use of digital tools to support human expertise.

By bringing together technological innovation and people-focused strategies, this conference reflects a simple but powerful reality: the future competitiveness of investment casting depends on both advanced processes and strong, capable teams.

I would like to thank already all speakers, session chairs, sponsors and exhibitors for their valuable contributions, as well as the EICF team and volunteers, whose efforts will make this event possible. 

Most importantly, I’m looking forward to welcome all participants who will attend this EICF Conference at the World Heritage city of Seville. Your engagement, questions, and discussions are what truly will give life to this conference.

Dr. Julio Aguilar

EICF Chairman