REGISTER

You are not alone if you are struggling to address the skills gap through workforce initiatives and innovative automation technologies. Across the manufacturing industry, the workforce skills gap is a significant challenge for most companies – but there are strategies and opportunities to face it head-on. Join us at Richard J. Daley College to learn from other manufacturing leaders who have identified ways to address the skills gap and hiring challenges.

AGENDA

Welcome

• David Girzadas   |  City Colleges of Chicago – Richard J. Daley College
• John Bradarich  |  IMEC
• Jonathan McGee  |  Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

Panel 1: Incorporating Automation to Increase Production

• Manufacturers will discuss how automation is one component for resolving the workforce gap for manufacturers of all sizes – without replacing existing team members.
• Topics to include:
  • Scoping & assessing projects leading to a decision
  • Strategic planning for automation
  • Line automation
  • Productivity and automation
  • Financing options for technology and automation investments
• Panel Members:
  • Moderator: John Azara  |  IMEC
  • Mike Bettinardi  |  Donson Machine
  • Anna Farina  |  Merkur
  • Harold Papazian  |  Rockfon
  • Nick Sainati  |  Belden Universal
  • Steven D. Shatrich  | Huntington Equipment Finance

Panel 2: Find – or Create – Your Workforce

• Learn how a sample of Chicago manufacturers are using nontraditional avenues to recruit, onboard, and retain employees.
• Topics to include:
  • Returning citizens
  • Apprenticeships
  • Training and employee development
  • Women in manufacturing
  • Culture
• Panel Members:
  • Moderator: David Girzadas   |  City Colleges of Chicago – Richard J. Daley College
  • Israel Preston  |  G & W Electric
  • Jason Wasikowski  |  Mauser Packaging Solutions
  • Karen DeGrasse  |  Next Edge Corp Partners
  • Montel Gayles  |  K-Town/The Will Group
  • Pete Hinzy  |  Prater Industries

Lunch, provided by Huntington Bank

Tour

• Explore the new state-of-the-art Advanced Manufacturing Lab at the Manufacturing Technology and Engineering Center of Richard J. Daley College.

Networking

• Connect with panelists and attendees.

Cost: FREE! Registration is required for this event.