Speakers
One of the key elements of this year's FOCAST Foundry Salon will be a panel discussion on the future of the foundry industry in the face of dynamic changes in the global market. Experts and sector leaders will discuss the most important trends, challenges and opportunities facing the foundry industry both in Poland and globally. The panel will feature well-known experts from Poland and abroad who will share their knowledge and experience in foundry technology, innovation and industry development.
Dr. Carsten Kuhlgatz
One of Europe’s leading foundry industry experts. He is an experienced leader, a committed activist and a promoter of innovation and development of the younger generation of engineers. He currently serves on the supervisory board of Hüttenes-Albertus Chemische Werke GmbH (HA-Group), presides over Albertuswerke GmbH, and serves on the supervisory board of the Albertus-Foundation. He holds leadership positions in major German industry organizations, such as the German Foundry Chemical Association and the German Foundrymen’s Association. From 2022 to 2023, he presided over the World Foundry Organization (WFO), with which he is still actively involved. He is particularly committed to the younger generation of engineers, co-organizing the international Young Researchers Conference.
Tunçağ Cihangir Şen
Secretary General of the Turkish Foundry Association (TÜDÖKSAD), a specialist in foundry and the circular economy. At his initiative, innovative projects such as “CHROMAFOR” and “DIGIFOUNDRY” are being implemented to support the development of digital learning platforms for the industry. His expertise in international trade and business administration makes him recognized as a key leader in his field.
Krzysztof Sikora
An expert with more than 20 years of experience in the foundry industry, who has worked with such industrial giants as EATON Automotive Systems and Rolls-Royce. He specializes in optimizing production processes and managing the global foundry supply chain. His experience in international projects and numerous innovative technology solutions have brought real savings and quality improvements to global companies.
Prof. Rafał Dańko
Professor and Vice-Chancellor of the AGH University of Science and Technology in Cracow, specialist in foundry technologies and sustainable development of the materials industry. As vice president of the World Foundry Organization and president of the Association of Polish Foundries, Prof. Dańko actively supports the development of modern technologies in the industry, highlighting the importance of innovation and energy efficiency.
