KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

For decades, manufacturing has relied on deterministic automation and incremental improvement. Today, rising global competition, productivity pressure, and a shrinking technical workforce have fundamentally changed that model. Manufacturers can no longer bolt AI onto existing systems and expect transformation. Without context, guardrails, and orchestration, AI adds risk instead of value.

This keynote explores the “Automation Impact”, a shift toward integrating industrial AI with proven automation to build more resilient, adaptive operations. Drawing on real-world examples, it examines how manufacturers can move from being data-rich but insight-poor to creating a connected digital thread that turns insight into action. The session also highlights why workforce enablement is essential to scaling AI responsibly.

Chicago Bears radio voice Jeff Joniak sits down with Hall of Fame linebacker Brian Urlacher to explore what it truly means to be built to win. Drawing from a career defined by preparation, discipline, and relentless consistency, Urlacher shares the leadership principles that sustained championship-level performance.

Through candid stories and real-world lessons, the conversation examines how elite teams prepare for defining moments, build trust and accountability, and perform under pressure. With Chicago pride and executive-level insight, this session connects the mindset of a champion to the demands of modern organizations — inspiring attendees to raise their standards, commit to excellence, and lead with confidence.