History

The program was established in 1975 in tribute to David Laine, who served as Secretary of the American Die Casting Institute (ADCI), a forerunner of NADCA, for 29 years. Mr. Laine was instrumental in effecting many advancements for the benefit of the die casting industry. Among these were the development of a safety program, which was adopted by the institute in 1945. Mr. Laine also helped to found the Die Casting Research Foundation.

Mr. Laine provided vigorous representation for the die casting industry in Washington, D.C., speaking out for the programs and legislation that would best serve not only the die casting industry, but the numerous industries it serves.

Mr. Laine's leadership and service to the industry were widely recognized. Among the many honors awarded him were the ADCI's Doehler Award in 1952, a special citation from the institute in 1969, marking 25 years of dedicated service, and an Honorary Life Membership in the Society of Die Casting Engineers.