ACE Hosts FIA Technical Conference Factory Tour

A Showcase of Excellence

At ACE, we were honored to open our doors to the brilliant minds of the forging industry as part of this year’s FIA Technical Conference factory tour. It was a unique opportunity to welcome not only customers and industry peers but also our competitors—each a driving force in advancing forging technology.

By showcasing our facility, we were able to share our expertise, innovations, and commitment to excellence with some of the most respected professionals in the field. The tour offered an inside look at the cutting-edge processes, automation, and technical advancements that keep ACE at the forefront of the industry and highlighted the collaborative spirit that continues to propel the forging community forward.

A Focus on Cleanliness, Efficiency, and Expertise

One of the most frequent questions we heard during the tour was: “Is it hard to keep the shop this clean all the time?” This level of professionalism, seen in every corner of our facility, is a testament to the pride we take in maintaining an organized, efficient, and safe work environment. In fact, we’re proud to say that we have surpassed over one million hours with no lost time due to accidents—further emphasizing our commitment to safety. Maintaining these standards ensures that our equipment is always in peak condition, directly benefiting our customers by delivering reliable production and high-quality products.

Engaging Discussions and Technical Insights

Our team was fully prepared to lead visitors through each area of the shop, sharing detailed insights into our processes and the technology driving our innovations. From engaging discussions on automation and HMI systems to in-depth conversations about the durability and strength of our forging solutions, it was clear that FIA attendees were eager to learn and impressed by the level of expertise ACE offers. The exchange of knowledge and ideas throughout the tour reinforced the strong bonds within the forging industry and the shared drive to advance our field.

Excited to Share Our History and Legacy

One of the most rewarding aspects of the FIA tour was the opportunity to share our rich history and legacy in the forging industry. For over a century, ACE has been a pioneer in forging technology, evolving alongside the industry and helping shape its future. We are proud to say that ACE has been a member of the Forging Industry Association (FIA) since 1961, and our ongoing commitment to excellence has only grown stronger over the years. Sharing this journey with fellow industry leaders was a powerful reminder of the enduring impact we’ve made—and continue to make—on the world of forging. This legacy motivates us to keep pushing boundaries and ensures that the quality and craftsmanship ACE is known for will endure for generations to come.

Inspiring the Next Generation: Engaging Local Students

We were also excited to use this opportunity to expose local students to the world of manufacturing. During the tour, we welcomed a number of students from area schools, including Erie High School, ranging from middle to high school. By giving them a firsthand look at our operations, we aimed to show that rewarding careers in the trades are available right here in Erie. The students had the chance to learn about the technologies we use and how they could one day be part of an international company without leaving their community.

Positive Feedback from Our Visitors

Throughout the tour, attendees expressed admiration for our substantial in-house machining capabilities and the strong organizational leadership evident in our shop’s layout. Many were impressed with how efficiently our facility is run, noting how it sets a high standard for the industry. The event also sparked interest in our Preventative Maintenance Program, with several attendees looking to customize similar programs for their own teams.

Proud to be an FIA Member

As a proud member of the Forging Industry Association (FIA), hosting this event was more than just an opportunity to showcase our capabilities—it reaffirmed our ongoing commitment to the forging community. FIA membership plays a crucial role in connecting us with industry leaders, fostering innovation, and keeping ACE at the forefront of technical advancements. Our involvement with FIA enables us to collaborate with peers, share knowledge, and elevate the standards of our industry. We take great pride in contributing to FIA’s mission of advancing and strengthening the forging industry as a whole.

A Proud Moment for ACE

Hosting the FIA Technical Conference factory tour was not only an opportunity to show off our facility but also a chance for the entire ACE team to shine. Each member of the team played a crucial role in making the event a success. Their professionalism, expertise, and passion for forging were on full display, and we couldn’t be prouder of their contributions. From ensuring the shop was tour-ready to leading insightful conversations, the team demonstrated the dedication and skill that make ACE a leader in the industry.

Thank you to the Forging Industry Association (FIA) and all the attendees for joining us on this memorable day. We look forward to continuing to drive innovation, share knowledge, and lead with excellence in the forging industry!