This Veterans Day, Federal Foam Technologies proudly recognizes the men and women who have served our country—and the many veterans who continue to serve their communities and teams right here at FFT.
Two of those dedicated teammates are Carey Casey, Master Scheduler in New Richmond, WI, and Dustin Hodson, Lead Operator in Northwood, IA. Both are U.S. Navy veterans whose stories show how the values learned in military service—teamwork, accountability and adaptability—continue to shape their work and leadership at Federal Foam.
From Aviation Mechanic to Master Scheduler
Carey grew up on a dairy farm in Glenwood City, Wisconsin, where she developed a knack for fixing things and solving problems. After considering a medical career, she followed her lifelong interest in mechanics and joined the U.S. Navy, serving proudly for 15 years.
Her military journey took her through boot camp in Florida and A-school Tennessee, then to duty stations in Whidbey Island, Washington and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Carey became an aviation structural mechanic, specializing in egress and environmental systems—everything from ejection seats to air conditioning and pressurization systems.
Over time, she moved up through several leadership roles, eventually earning “safe for flight” status—signing off that maintenance completed on an aircraft was completed properly and the aircraft was safe to fly. Later, she was assigned to search and rescue in Whidbey Island and eventually finished out her military career managing the field operations at the Whidbey Island Air Terminal.
“Communication and teamwork are everything,” Carey says. “If everyone’s on the same page and moving in the same direction, things flow better and faster. That’s true in the Navy, and it’s true at FFT.”
After her 15-year tour in the Navy, Carey transitioned into the plastics industry and eventually used her GI Bill to earn a degree in computer programming. Today, as Master Scheduler at Federal Foam Technologies, she ensures production runs smoothly, coordinating materials, job releases and engineering schedules to keep operations on track.
Carey says what she values most about FFT is its team-focused culture.
“There’s a real family atmosphere here,” she explains. “People step in to help, teach and support each other. The company’s flexibility and openness mean a lot—it’s a place that truly cares for its people.”
When reflecting on Veterans Day, Carey is proud of her service and those who’ve shared that journey.
“Less than one percent of our population serves in the military,” she says. “You give up a lot—time with family and friends—but you gain another kind of family in the people you serve with. It’s important to recognize that sacrifice.”
Discipline, Dedication and Teamwork at Sea
For Dustin, serving in the Navy was a family tradition—his father and grandfather both wore the uniform before him. From 2003 to 2007, he served in Guam, where his ship was docked throughout his time in service.
Driven by a desire to see the world, Dustin began as an undesignated sailor and later chose the role of Boatswain’s Mate. His responsibilities included ship preservation, crane operations and port logistics—everything from unloading food and supplies to loading torpedoes for submarines.
“We brought ships in and out of port, handled supplies, and when we were at sea, I even got to steer the ship,” Dustin recalls.
The Navy took him to Japan, Singapore, Australia, Malaysia, South Korea and beyond, teaching him lessons about discipline, teamwork and adaptability that guide his approach to work today.
After leaving the military, Dustin used his GI Bill to earn associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice. He interned with the Mason City Police Department and worked in security before joining Federal Foam Technologies—where his attention to detail and leadership skills helped him grow into his current role as Lead Operator.
“Being on time and showing up—it’s huge,” he says. “That’s something the Navy taught me that applies anywhere. You adapt, help your teammates and do what it takes to get the job done.”
He sees a lot of overlap between the structure of the military and the teamwork-driven environment at FFT.
“This is a pretty structured place to work, and there’s a clear chain of command,” Dustin says. “It’s similar to the Navy, and if you work hard, you can move up.”
For Dustin, Veterans Day is a reminder of the dedication and sacrifice of those who serve.
“People are willing to put their lives on the line for this country,” he says. “They leave their families to serve and give up a lot. That deserves to be remembered.”
Veterans Strengthen Our Teams
Both Carey and Dustin exemplify what it means to be a veteran in manufacturing—leaders who bring discipline, precision, and teamwork to every task. At Federal Foam Technologies, we’re proud to employ and support veterans across our facilities and to celebrate their contributions not just on Veterans Day, but every day.
To all who have served—thank you for your courage, your dedication, and your continued service to your communities and workplaces.
