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.

OUR TEAM
Meet the Team Behind Peak Performance
Our talented and experienced collaborative team that delivers results for your workforce development and training needs.

Denise Hall
President & CEO
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Denise Hall is president and owner of Peak Performance, Inc. a workforce development training & consulting company helping manufacturers achieve operational excellence. Peak Performance operates the U.S. Smart Factory Institute, which is part of a global network of institutes, comprised of leading companies and organizations in advanced manufacturing. The Smart Factory Institute is a business-driven effort, providing manufacturers with connections, collaborative relationships, and certifications for improving manufacturing processes by providing them with access to the latest technology in advanced manufacturing.​

Michelle Castleberry
Marketing & Event Manager
Michelle Castleberry is a mission-driven marketing and community relations professional with over 15 years of experience in creative leadership, visual communications, and stakeholder engagement. As the Marketing & Event Manager for Peak Performance, Michelle spearheads the brand’s digital presence and manages the complex logistics and execution of the Smart Factory Institute’s extensive event calendar.
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Skylar Randolph
Director of Business Development,
Peak Performance
Skylar Randolph is a high-energy business development professional with 8 years of experience employing strategic planning initiatives. He positively impacts business outcomes through effective organization, prioritization and execution of key projects. His professional competencies in rapport building, customer service, product knowledge and problem solving are attributed to his successful track record in the areas of account management, sourcing & procurement, marketing and sales.
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Kathy Wilson
Training Curriculum Developer
Kathy Wilson is an experienced Curriculum Developer. She honed her skills through many years in the field of Education. Having taught learners from the very young to adults, Kathy has planned, created, and implemented learning content using a variety of teaching and training methodologies and technologies to increase learning retention and application of knowledge.
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Ben Absher
Business Development Rep
Smart Factory Institute
Ben Absher is a dynamic Business Development Representative at the Smart Factory Institute, where he focuses on bridging the gap between advanced manufacturing technologies and industry growth. With a background rooted in financial security and strategic recruitment, Ben brings a unique perspective to industrial innovation—prioritizing clear communication, data-driven decision-making, and long-term relationship building.
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Britt Cawley
Accounting Clerk & Payroll
Britt Cawley brings over a decade of experience in accounting, operations, and business management across the construction, distribution, and small business industries. She has a proven track record of maintaining accurate financial records, improving operational processes, and building strong relationships with vendors, clients, and team members.
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