IMA Women Makers Series Kick Off: Leading Where You Stand — Driving Impact at Every Level

April 8

7:30 am - 1:00 pm

Event has Passed

Empower.
Elevate.
Lead.

Details

Location

Abbington Distinctive Banquets
3South002 IL Route 53
Glen Ellyn, 60137 United States + Google Map
Partners
Contact

Trish Overturf

toverturf@ima-net.org
*Registration closes April 1st*

The 2026 IMA Women Makers Kick-Off is designed to champion leadership development at every stage of a woman’s career. This year’s theme, “Leading Where You Stand — Driving Impact at Every Level,” will bring together driven women in manufacturing and forward-thinking organizations committed to building a stronger talent pipeline, elevating high-performing leaders, and creating workplace cultures where women are empowered to thrive and contribute at their highest level. By investing in development, connection, and opportunity, organizations strengthen innovation, improve retention, enhance team performance, and drive measurable business results — fueling long-term success across the manufacturing industry.

Join us Wednesday, April 8, from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.—and enjoy a professional headshot as part of your experience. Open to women at every stage of their manufacturing career.
Agenda

7:30am: Registration and Headshots Station Open

8:00 am: Networking Breakfast

8:50 am: Welcome

9:00 am: NEW! Keynote Address by Maria Doughty, President and CEO of The Chicago Network

10:00 am: Panel Discussion: Lift As You Lead: Supporting Women in Manufacturing

Hear from women leaders as they share how mentorship, advocacy, and support from others helped shape their careers—and how they are now lifting up the next generation of women in manufacturing.

Panelists:

·   Ami Szchinski, AbbVie

·   Jill Wrobel, Brunswick

·   Renee Togher, Azteca Foods

·   Jodi Keller, United Scrap Metal, Inc.

11:00 am: Breakout Sessions

Forging Your Financial Future: Money Confidence for Women in Manufacturing

Gain practical tools and insights to help you build financial confidence, make smarter money decisions, and take control of your financial future—both in your career and beyond.

Facilitators:

·   Kendra Castelloni, Wintrust

·   Molly Gullman, Wintrust

Strength Under Pressure: Mental Wellness for Women Makers

Explore practical strategies to manage stress, build resilience, and prioritize mental wellness while navigating the unique pressures of leadership, work, and life in manufacturing.

Facilitator:

·   Cindy Pickett, Marketplace Chaplains

12:00 pm: Break/Serve Lunch

12:15 pm: Fireside Chat: Allies in Action: Men Supporting Women in Manufacturing

Join this candid conversation with industry leaders as they discuss the important role male allies play in supporting, advocating for, and advancing women across the manufacturing workforce.

Panelists:

·   Mark Denzler, IMA

·   David Boulay, IMEC

1:00 pm: Closing

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