2022 Manufacturing Conference offers insight on technology, innovation

August 25, 2022 | Download PDF

DES MOINES, Iowa — The 2022 Manufacturing Conference will bring together experts to provide insight and advice on the top challenges and opportunities facing Iowa manufacturers today, from utilizing new technology to finding new markets.

The Manufacturing Conference, hosted by the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI), will take place Oct. 5, at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny. Manufacturers from across the state also will gather the night before to celebrate icons in the industry at the Legends in Manufacturing Awards Dinner, organized by Elevate Iowa, a program of ABI. 

Gage Kent, the conference keynote speaker, is Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of KENT. During his tenure, Mr. Kent has led the growth of company assets while increasing revenue and profitability. KENT Corporation, headquartered in Muscatine, Iowa, employs more than 2,000 people and has 40 locations worldwide.

Attendees will also hear from a panel of manufacturing leaders about challenges and opportunities facing the manufacturing industry. The panel will be moderated by Debi Durham, Executive Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) and the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA).

Workshops will explore issues important to all Iowa manufacturers such as leveraging artificial intelligence, predictive maintenance, employee recruitment and retention, and risk control methodologies. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour local manufacturers like Accumold, Kreg Tool, and Red Boot Distillery.

“The annual Manufacturing Conference is a valuable investment for all of Iowa’s manufacturers and companies that do business with them,” ABI President Mike Ralston said. “It is a great opportunity to connect with peers, learn from experts and celebrate this iconic industry.”

Registration for both the Manufacturing Conference and the Legends in Manufacturing Awards Dinner is available here: www.iowaabi.org/abimfg