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.
11th Annual
Peak Performance Symposium
For manufacturers, by manufacturers.
Presented by:
November 7, 2025 | 8:30am -2:15pm
8:30am - 9:00am: Registration & Networking
9:00am - 11:30am: Peak Performance Symposium
11:30am - 1:00pm: Industry Appreciation Luncheon
1:00pm - 2:15pm: SK Food Group 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.
This year’s event will feature a partnership with the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce to host the Industry Appreciation Luncheon. Taking place right next door to the Smart Factory at WACKER Commons, the luncheon provides a unique opportunity to celebrate local industry leaders while bringing together business and community partners.
Following the luncheon, we’ll be offering a limited number of spots for an exclusive SK Food facility tour beginning at 1:00 pm. Space is limited, so be sure to register early to secure your place for this behind-the-scenes experience.
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.
James Womack
Founder & Senior Advisor, Lean Enterprise Institute
Session Speaker
10:15am
Navigating the Turbulent Tides of Trade: Strategies for Manufacturers in Uncertain Times
In his presentation, Mr.Taylor will explore the multifaceted impacts - both negative and positive - that recent trade policies implemented during the Trump administration have had on the manufacturing sector. Drawing from his extensive research and industry expertise, he will provide an in-depth analysis of both the immediate and long-term effects on manufacturers, emphasizing the challenges faced by businesses as well as potential positive outcomes. Through this thought-provoking session, manufacturers will have the opportunity to engage in a dialogue with Mr. Taylor, sharing their own experiences and exploring collaborative solutions to address the complexities of trade policies.
Edward Taylor
Boyd Center for Business & Economic Research
Panel Discussion
10:45am
Smart Manufacturing Made Affordable: Practical Industry 4.0 Solutions
Discover how manufacturers can implement Industry 4.0 without breaking the budget. This session highlights cost-effective strategies and real-world examples, including the use of low-cost sensors, cloud-based platforms, and open-source software. Panelists will share best practices and discuss the tangible benefits these solutions bring to improving efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness.
Jeff Jolley
President, Advanced Makers
Jonathan Gonzalez
President & Co-Founder, FocustApps
Mike Brooks
Industry Manager – Automotive and AGV , Phoenix Contact
Closing Remarks
11:20am
Denise (Rice) Hall
President & CEO, Peak Performance Inc.
Lunch
11:30am
Industry Appreciation Luncheon
At the WACKER Commons
Plant Tour
1:00pm
SK Food Group Plant Tour
Ticket Holders Only | Tour will end at 2:15pm
