The Forging Industry Association (FIA) and Forging Foundation (FIERF) have announced the publication of their first children's book about the forging industry. The book entitled “Forging with Freddy” was first made available to the public at Forge Fair 2023, North America’s Largest Forging Industry Trade Show in Cleveland, OH on May 25, 2023. This book is the first in a series to be published with the purpose of educating children on manufacturing, and more specifically, the forging process. 

“Forging with Freddy was not only a fun project to work on, but also a very important one,” said Angela Gibian, Executive Director of the Forging Foundation (FIERF) and author of the children's book. “Sharing the world of forging and engaging with children from a young age is a vital part of keeping our industry strong and ensuring its evolution and success in the future.”

The book was illustrated by Kenny Kiernan, who has been working on children’s illustrations and characters for more than 20 years, including projects for mega-brands such as Hasbro, Mattel, Disney, Marvel, Funko, Spin Master, LEGO & Scholastic to small businesses, entrepreneurs, independent product developers and children's book self-publishers. His bright colors and unique character design make “Forging with Freddy” an eye-catching publication and exciting read for children.

Supported by an endowment from Wozniak Industries and sponsorship from Patriot Forge, the first 100 print copies were given to show attendees who made a $50 or more donation to FIERF while at Forge Fair 2023. More print copies will be available for purchase online, and a digital flipping book will be published on FIERF’s website (www.fierf.org).

“We’re all so proud of Angie for sharing her creative and writing talents bringing Freddy the Forger to life,” said James R. Warren, President & CEO of the Forging Industry Association (FIA).  “Special thanks to Wozniak Industries and Patriot Forge for the financial support to make this possible.”

The second book in the series, “Forging with Freddy: Safety First” is currently in production and will focus on safety and safety equipment used in forging.  

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About FIA: For more than 100 years, the Forging Industry Association (FIA) has been helping forging companies in North America to increase their global competitiveness. FIA’s producer member companies manufacture approximately 75% of the custom forgings volume produced in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Its supplier members manufacture materials and provide services used by the forging industry. Together, FIA’s 220 members comprise the only trade association dedicated to promoting and serving the forging industry in North America.

About FIERF: Established in 1961, the Forging Industry Educational and Research Foundation (FIERF) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Operating as a “supporting organization” to the Forging Industry Association (FIA), the Foundation’s Mission is to support the forging industry through technology development and education.  FIERF builds our future workforce by promoting our industry, awarding scholarships, identifying and sharing employment opportunities and encouraging participation in forging research and projects.