Event Schedule

12:30 PM – Registration, Exhibitor Booths, Networking | 1:00-2:00 PM – Concurrent Seminars
2:00-2:30 PM – Networking | 2:30-5:00 PM – Main Program, Concurrent Seminars
5:00-6:30 PM – Networking Reception

Next Generation Manufacturing Summit

The annual Next Generation Manufacturing Summit, presented by BizTimes Media, features an exciting interactive discussion with chief executive officers of southeastern Wisconsin companies. The CEOs will share their companies’ best operational strategies and discuss their solutions for competing in a global marketplace.

Growing Amidst Constant Change

The economy is changing. Supply chains are changing. Your workforce and what employees want are always changing. Regulations and technology are changing. How can you build and grow a business when everything around you is always changing?
Join BizTimes Media for the Next Generation Manufacturing Summit for insights on how companies in one of Wisconsin’s most important industries are dealing with the challenges of today’s market while also preparing for tomorrow.
This year, the event will be a half-day program where you can immerse yourself in the latest industry trends with exhibitors, gain invaluable knowledge from thought-provoking seminars, and hear from a panel of local manufacturing leaders discussing trends and best practices. Following the program, join fellow attendees for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at the networking reception.
Don’t miss this opportunity to make connections, learn and propel your business to new heights.

Speakers

• George Baumann, President and CEO, GL Industrial (1)
• Tracy Pearson, President & CEO, Perlick Corp. (2)
• Terry Tuttle, President, HellermannTyton North America (3)
• Megan Tzanoukakis, President & CEO, Sussex IM (4)

WMEP Annual Survey Results Overview

George Bureau, Senior Vice President Consulting Services, WMEP

click to download slides

BREAKOUT SESSIONS 1:00-2:00 PM

Cyber Risk Simplified: Protect Yourself & Your Company with the Right Security and Coverage for 2024
Join a presentation and discussion that explores the world of cyber risk management for 2024 and beyond. Find out how businesses of all sizes continue to win the war against cybercrime with the latest technology advancements and people training to thwart bad actors and their newest AI-driven exploits. You will learn how companies are achieving the right cyber liability coverage at the best price while meeting increased compliance standards. You will walk away with steps to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to safeguard your digital assets effectively.
Presenters:
  • Paul T. Riedl. Jr. CEO River Run
  • Terrie Beede, Manager, Chief Information Security Officer, River Run
Getting More from doing Less. How can you increase Productivity by doing Less?
Join this breakout session where we delve into strategies for enhancing productivity through the optimization of common shop floor processes. From material receipt to the final product, discover valuable tools and techniques that have been successfully implemented to simplify operations, minimize errors, and increase visibility. Learn how to empower your team to make timely and precise decisions, ultimately leading to improved productivity and efficiency. By the end of this session, you’ll have actionable ideas to implement in your own shop floor operations. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to level up your productivity game.
Panelists:
  • Andy Martin, Vice President Operations – Industrial, Generac Power Systems
  • Tony Gascon, General Manager for Imaging Subsystems and MICT Manufacturing Operations, GE HealthCare

Moderator: Rick Reith, Senior Manufacturing Consultant, Information Systems Engineering | Paper-Less, LLC

Hidden Talent: Tapping into an Undiscovered Workforce

At a time when manufacturers in the Milwaukee region and the nation are facing shortages of skilled talent, Milwaukee Area Technical College’s Uniquely Abled Academy (UAA) offers an innovative solution. Following a national model, the UAA at MATC provides students on the Autism spectrum with the hands-on training needed to prepare for a career as a computer numerical control (CNC) operator. Hear about the program — and how graduates are succeeding right now in the workforce. Panelists:

  • Goldhmong Vang, Coordinator, Uniquely Abled Academy, Milwaukee Area Technical College
  • Peter Rathmann, CEO, Allis Tool & Machine Corp.
  • Sara Chang, Talent Generalist, Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Moderator: Naomi Pollek, Manager, Student & Employer Relations, MATC

Event Details

Thursday, October 5, 2023
12:30-6:30 PM
Italian Community Center

Presented By

Presenting Sponsor

Sponsor

Supporting Sponsor

Seminar Sponsors

Exhibit Sponsor

Interested in sponsoring an event? To reap the benefits of the ultimate in-person marketing opportunity contact Linda Crawford, Director of Sales, to discuss opportunities. Event sponsorships are limited.

BREAKOUT SESSIONS 4:00-5:00 PM

How to Onboard Star Employees

A great onboarding program is key to retention and accelerated productivity – create a better employee experience from the start.

Presenter: Carol Crawford, Talent & Culture Services Leader | Senior Consultant, WMEP

Navigating the Future: AI and Automation in Manufacturing

Join local manufacturing and technology experts in a panel discussion exploring how they have integrated AI and automation into their manufacturing processes, driving innovation and operational excellence in their own businesses.

Panelists:

  • Andreas Bubenzer – Paim, Managing Director & Head of Technology Banking, BMO
  • Brian Fifarek, Vice President Supply Chain Digitalization, Eaton
  • Ramesh Koovelimadhom, Practice Director, Tek Systems
  • Nathan Lasnoski, Chief Technology Officer, Concurrency

Moderator: Aaron Towns, Senior Vice President, Corporate Banking Wisconsin, BMO

Industrial subordinated financing for building, equipment and working capital

First-Ring Industrial Redevelopment Enterprise, Inc. (FIRE), was chosen by the CDFI Fund of U.S. Department of Treasury to receive a $30 million New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) allocation. The allocation will allow FIRE to provide seven-year interest only subordinated gap financing to industrial and commercial business with up to an 85% forgivable loan feature. Projects must have a total project cost of at least $5 million. Join us and learn how FIRE can ignite your manufacturing success!
Presenter: John Stibal, President, First-Ring Industrial Redevelopment Enterprise, Inc. (FIRE)