CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The University of Northern Iowa is pleased to welcome Drew James as the new director of the Metal Casting and Foundry 4.0 Centers. 

James brings over 17 years of experience in professional casting to the team. He comes to UNI from John Deere, where he worked as a senior materials engineer and focused on quality improvement projects, casting curriculum and training, and intern supervision. He also created a cast steel auditing process and was essential in company cost savings. 

In his new role at UNI, James will provide leadership and direction for projects, oversee interactions with casting industry clients and technical organizations, design and lead research studies, and lead engagement with state and federal legislators, government liaisons, and industry leadership. 

“These centers have a great team in place, and I am excited to continue the tradition of advancing the foundry industry,” he said. 

James earned his Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Materials Engineering degrees from Iowa State University. He is an expert in castings, aluminum, cast iron, steel metallurgy, American Society for Testing and Materials and International Organization for Standardization standards, supplier quality, auditing, and mentoring. He is involved in a wide variety of organizations and leadership roles including Cast Iron: Gray, Ductile, & CGI, the American Foundry Society, and Foundry in the Box.

“We are excited to have Drew serve as the new leader of the MCC and Foundry 4.0 team,” said Randy Pilkington, executive director of UNI’s Business & Community Services. “His extensive industry experience will help build on the excellent reputation and services provided by the centers while seeking new opportunities.”

For more information about the University of Northern Iowa Metal Casting and Foundry 4.0 Centers, visit mcc.uni.edu.