The Wire Association International (WAI) has completed production of its first in‑house video training program, Introduction to Ferrous Metallurgy. This release marks a key milestone for WAI’s new online learning initiative and reinforces its ongoing commitment to advancing education in the global wire and cable industry.
Advancing Learning Through Digital Innovation
WAI Executive Director Steve Fetteroll said the new WAI Introduction to Ferrous Metallurgy training course builds on the organization’s founding mission. “Our founders wanted to expand knowledge and connect the industry through learning. Today, we achieve that goal with tools designed for a new generation of workers,” he explained.
The course features seven short video lessons, each running under five minutes. After every video, learners complete quick knowledge checks. Once finished, participants earn a certificate of completion that confirms their new skills.
Expert Collaboration and Engaging Course Design
To make the WAI Introduction to Ferrous Metallurgy training course engaging and easy to follow, WAI worked with a motion designer who specializes in manufacturing “explanation” videos. Each video combines real shop‑floor footage with animations that simplify technical ideas. Clear narration from a professional voice actor keeps the lessons concise and accessible.
Steel industry expert Anand Bhagwat, a WAI Past President and metallurgical consultant, helped guide the curriculum. He collaborated with John Markowski, WAI Project Manager, and a team of subject‑matter experts to ensure accuracy. “This project has been an exciting journey,” Bhagwat said. “We’re confident that this course will be well received.”
Launching the WAI Learning Management System
With its first course complete, WAI is now launching the soft phase of its new Learning Management System (LMS). Along with the ferrous metallurgy course, the early rollout will include 12 manufacturing safety modules. During this stage, WAI will collect feedback from industry professionals to fine‑tune the platform before the full launch.
Companies that want early access can contact the WAI Education Department at education@wirenet.org or call 203‑458‑4044. Their feedback will help WAI improve its content and ensure the best possible training experience.
Looking Ahead to WAI’s 2025 Public Launch
The full public launch of WAI’s online platform is scheduled for early 2025. During the introductory period, WAI will offer discounted access to all users—both members and non-members—so more industry professionals can explore its training catalogue.
Alongside the WAI Introduction to Ferrous Metallurgy course, WAI has already started developing the first of four upcoming extrusion training courses. The initial course, focused on single-layer extrusion, will be available for the hard launch in early 2025, followed by three additional modules later in the year.
Continuing In-Person Training Opportunities
While expanding its digital learning portfolio, WAI remains dedicated to in-person professional development. The Association will continue to offer its full-day Fundamentals of Wire Manufacturing course, next held at Interwire 2025.
Through this new hybrid approach, WAI strengthens its position as a global leader in wire and cable education—offering both innovative online programs and traditional hands-on training experiences.