YSU student Ely Vuksanovich earns mentorship, scholarship after national steel conference presentation

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

When Youngstown State University junior Ely Vuksanovich presented her work at a national steel industry conference in December 2025, she was not only representing her student organization, but years of hands-on learning and leadership at YSU.

Vuksanovich, a mechanical engineering technology major who began her studies at YSU in 2022, recently represented the chapter at the Steel Founders’ Society of America Technical and Operator’s Conference in December 2025. There, she delivered a presentation on the chapter’s winning entry from April 2025’s Cast in Steel competition, speaking to an audience of approximately 120 industry professionals.

As a result of her presentation and technical work, Vuksanovich was selected for a mentorship opportunity and awarded a $3,000 scholarship. The mentorship pairs her with an experienced industry professional specializing in high-alloy steel, allowing her to gain hands-on insight into advanced casting techniques and real-world applications.

“This was a huge deal,” Vuksanovich said. “It’s a very exclusive conference, and most people don’t even know it exists unless you’re invited. Being able to present our work and then be offered a mentorship and scholarship was incredibly meaningful.”

Vuksanovich became involved with the American Foundry Society chapter during her freshman year after a professor invited her to attend a meeting. What began as casual participation quickly evolved into leadership. She progressed from member to secretary, then vice president, and now serves as chapter president.

In her current role, she oversees outreach and external partnerships, coordinating with foundries, industry organizations and media partners. She also manages logistics for competitions, presentations and visiting crews, including scheduling, room reservations and parking access.

Whether it’s a foundry hosting a pour for student projects or coordinating a televised competition segment, Vuksanovich said her responsibilities require initiative and persistence.

“You have to make things happen,” she said. “People can’t just wait for someone else to decide. You pick something, roll with it and adjust as needed.”

The AFS chapter’s 2025 Cast in Steel competition entry focused on producing a George Washington sword using innovative casting techniques. The team designed a mold with a draining riser to maximize benefits and reduce defects, employed an overmold technique and used simulation to precisely determine the process. “It was groundbreaking work,” Vuksanovich said. “Not just in terms of experimental designs; the concept hasn’t been explored anywhere else.” Vuksanovich credits YSU with giving her the space and support to apply her skills in meaningful ways.

She also acknowledged the guidance of faculty members who have played a key role in her development, including Brian Vuksanovich, advisor to the AFS chapter; Michael Costarell, coordinator of the mechanical engineering technology program; and Brian Ennis, a lecturer with extensive steel industry experience.

“They’ve all been there for me,” she said. “They’ve taught me how to think about problems in new ways and helped me grow both technically and professionally.”

Beyond competitions, the AFS chapter participates in industry conferences, casting workshops and networking events that expose students to real-world foundry operations. The organization also helps connect members with internships and employment opportunities in a field that continues to face workforce shortages.

Looking ahead, Vuksanovich said her mentorship experience is already shaping her career goals.

“I’ve learned that the only way to truly understand this industry is to do the work,” she said. “You can’t practice it in a classroom. You have to take a product from conception to completion.”

She encourages other students to get involved in organizations that align with their long-term goals and to build relationships with faculty members.

“If you want opportunities, you have to take steps to let them come to you,” she said. “Luck favors the prepared.”

Vuksanovich said her experience reflects why she chose to attend Youngstown State University and how the institution has supported her growth as both a student and a leader.

Her story reflects YSU’s ongoing commitment to providing students with real-world learning opportunities, strong faculty mentorship and pathways to professional success.

Through hands-on programs, industry partnerships and student leadership experiences, YSU continues to prepare students to excel in their fields and make meaningful contributions beyond campus.