As part of the Startup State Initiative, the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity curates a list of statewide entrepreneurship events that support and reinforce the startup community.
Get ready to dive into the dynamic manufacturing world and explore new ideas and opportunities within areas such as tariffs, continuous improvement, AI, marketing and the economy. The Manufacturing Conference focuses on strengthening Utah’s manufacturers through engaging breakout sessions, networking with like-minded professionals, and exploring new ideas and possibilities within the industry. Take advantage of this opportunity to stay ahead of the game in the ever-changing manufacturing industry.
2 Keynote Speakers
Safety Awards Presentation
9 Breakout Sessions: We have nine different inspiring breakout sessions focusing on the economy, staying up with today’s trends, and logistics.
15 Engaging Exhibitor Booths: Maximize your conference experience by stopping by the exhibitor booths during break sessions—network with industry experts who can provide insights and solutions to your toughest business challenges.
Networking Opportunities: Attendees will have ample networking opportunities with like-minded professionals in a casual, relaxed environment. Don’t miss this chance to expand your connections and grow your professional network.
Continental Breakfast and Lunch: Enjoy a continental breakfast at the beginning of your conference experience to kick off a day full of networking and learning and settle in for a buffet lunch while you listen to our keynote address.
8:30 – 8:45 a.m. | Check-in & Breakfast
8:45 – 9:30 a.m | Opening & Keynote
* Robert Spendlove | Zions Bancorporation
9:45 – 10:30 a.m. | First Breakout
* Logistics Panel | Moderator: AlIen Evans | Inland Port Authority
* Fueling Growth: Smart Borrowing Strategies for Manufacturers | Dan Bennett & Tyson Griffin | CC Bank
* Lower your Premiums Through Better Communication: Safety can Save at Renewal | Joe Irani | Gallagher
10:45 – 11:30 a.m. | Second Breakout
* The Power of Being Seen: Why Manufacturers Need to Tell Their Stories Better | Catherine Bennett | Utah Business
* AI’s Impact on HR and the Workplace | Michael Ongkiko | NFP
* The New Tariff Reality — What’s Next? | Troy Keller | Dorsey & Whitney LLP
11:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Lunch, Awards, & Keynote
* Bill Briggs | U.S. Small Business Administration
1:45 – 2:30 p.m. | Third Breakout
* 5 Generations, 1 Workplace | Megan Ware & Kari Kovar | Utah Manufacturers Association & Cottonwood Millwork & Cabinets
* New SBA Loans: Microloan Access to Resources and Capital (MARC) program | Thomas Kimsey | SBA
* A Collaborative US Supply Chain – the enabling factor for transformation | Alan Davis | i5 Services/CONNEX Marketplace
2:30 – 4:30 p.m. | SBA Roundtable Recap