The idea that 鈥淜nowledge is Power,鈥 is at the heart of , where manufacturers will gain the power they need to build stronger and more profitable businesses. The unique industry event is held April 24-26 in Orlando, Florida, at the .
At The MFG Meeting, industry experts will pack a powerful punch speaking on current business, economic, and technology trends 鈥 providing the insights manufacturers need for business planning in the immediate and longer-term future. Leaders will share their wisdom and challenges with peers during the panel discussions and networking opportunities throughout the two-day meeting.
鈥淭he MFG Meeting provides an ideal platform for industry professionals to learn, connect, share ideas, and explore new opportunities,鈥 says , senior vice president of Manufacturing Vendor Services at , which is an event sponsor.
No Surprises
, owner of , will kick off The MFG Meeting with an inspiring overview of upcoming trends impacting businesses in 2024 and 2025 in a presentation titled 鈥.鈥 Marks is a CPA and journalist who has covered small and mid-size manufacturers in publications such as the Washington Times, the Chicago Daily Herald, and Forbes magazine, as well as author of best-selling business strategy books. His deep knowledge on manufacturing trends comes from interviewing hundreds of people in manufacturing every year.
鈥淭he smartest and most successful leaders and executives will have to navigate their businesses through some challenges in 2024, such as higher cost structures, supply chain issues, new technology tools like AI, and the need to retain skilled workers,鈥 Marks says. 鈥淭hey have a lot of decisions to make this year, and I'm going to provide advice on what to do.鈥
Marks will share insights into the real implications of the current political landscape, including the approaching presidential election鈥檚 impact on manufacturing.
By the Numbers
, senior forecaster at , will analyze the next business cycle鈥檚 weakening economy, lower inflation, and a shift in consumer spending, which will create potential challenges as well as business opportunities in manufacturing.
鈥淭his year will present a different year than manufacturers have been used to the last few years,鈥 Lokar says. 鈥淎s the economy changes, there are ways that manufacturers can best position themselves to mitigate roadblocks where they can and take advantage of opportunities that come to light.鈥 For example, Lokar states that during a downturn, manufacturers have more time to focus on improving business practices and upgrading technologies in preparation for the next upturn. 鈥淏y knowing what to watch for and the probable timing of the reversal, leaders will have the confidence to enact plans to get the most out of 2024 and get ahead of competitors,鈥 Lokar adds. Action-packed agenda Other powerhouse expert presentations at The MFG Meeting include:
鈥淟eadership Transition Panel鈥 with Ralph Hegman, founder of Hegman Machine Tool; , co-founder of ; and Steve Gray, retired U.S. Air Force colonel and fighter pilot.
鈥淢anufacturing Policy Updates from Washington鈥 with , founding partner at ; and , partner of the Policy Resolution Group at
A live version of the new IMTS+ video series 鈥 with former AMT Chief Knowledge Officer .
鈥淭he Business Case for Training Manufacturing Frontline Managers鈥 with , co-founder of .
Al Moore Award
In recognition of his lifelong commitment to manufacturing leadership and service to the industry, AMT will honor Ralph Hegman, founder of Hegman Machine Tool with the Albert W. Moore AMT Leadership Award in a ceremony at The MFG Meeting. The Al Moore Award is given to members of the manufacturing technology community who have demonstrated a lifetime of dedication to the industry.
鈥淎s a leader in this industry, The MFG Meeting is valuable to me in so many ways, such as networking, the keynotes, and the breakout sessions. I learn from others who are exposed to information that I鈥檓 not otherwise,鈥 says , founder of and director of corporate development at . 鈥淭he keynote speakers are always top-notch, and the break-out sessions are incredibly valuable. It goes a long way beyond the price of admission.鈥
Move your business forward by attending The MFG Meeting. Learn more and register to attend at .