The manufacturing industry in North America is undergoing its fourth evolution into a high-technology, digitalized, and data-driven industry. This Industry 4.0 period began long before the COVID-19 pandemic affected global society but has been accelerated in response to many of the challenges associated with it. In this report, we examine and explore the current manufacturing industry in North America and the challenges and opportunities it faces as adoption of Industry 4.0 thinking, tools, standards, and processes becomes more widespread.
The manufacturing industry in North America is undergoing its fourth evolution into a high-technology, digitalized, and data-driven industry. This Industry 4.0 period began long before the COVID-19 pandemic affected global society but has been accelerated in response to many of the challenges associated with it. In this report, we examine and explore the current manufacturing industry in North America and the challenges and opportunities it faces as adoption of Industry 4.0 thinking, tools, standards, and processes becomes more widespread.
12th Annual
Peak Performance Symposium
For manufacturers, by manufacturers.
November 6, 2026 | 8:30am -2:15pm
8:30am - 9:00am: Registration & Networking
9:00am - 11:30am: Peak Performance Symposium
11:30am - 1:00pm: Luncheon
1:00pm - 2:15pm: Plant Tour
Smart Factory Institute @ PIE Innovation Center
2215 Parker Street NE, Cleveland, TN 37311
#SmartFactoryInstitute #MakerNation
About the Event
Maintaining Competitive Manufacturing Operations Through
TRADE, TECHNOLOGY & TALENT
The Peak Performance Symposium is an annual event designed by manufacturers, for manufacturers. It brings together leading industry professionals to share insights, discuss best practices, and explore key topics relevant to today’s advanced manufacturing. The
symposium focuses on how manufacturers are staying ahead of the competition by leveraging cutting-edge technology and cultivating top talent.
EVENT WILL START IN
Event Schedule
Kick-Off
8:30am
Registration & Networking
Symposium Opening
9:00am
Welcome & Opening Comments
Denise (Rice) Hall
President & CEO, Peak Performance Inc.
Featured Speaker
9:15am
Lean Leadership in the Era of Transformation: Insights from Dr. James Womack
Join us for an engaging fireside chat with Dr. James Womack, the pioneering author of The Machine That Changed the World and co-founder of the Lean movement. This intimate discussion will explore the critical intersection of lean principles with the evolving landscape of trade, technology, and talent in today's manufacturing environment. In this session, Dr. Womack will share his invaluable insights on how businesses can navigate the complexities of modern manufacturing by embracing lean leadership. Attendees will hear about real-world applications of lean thinking and how it can drive operational excellence while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The session will conclude with an open Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to engage directly with Dr. Womack and ask their own questions.
Session Speaker
10:15am
Navigating the Turbulent Tides of Trade: Strategies for Manufacturers in Uncertain Times
Panel Discussion
10:45am
Smart Manufacturing Made Affordable: Practical Industry 4.0 Solutions
Closing Remarks
11:20am
Denise (Rice) Hall
President & CEO, Peak Performance Inc.
Lunch
11:30am
Plant Tour
