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.

Lisa Thomas
President & CEO
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Lisa Thomas brings more than 30 years of manufacturing, operations, supply chain, procurement, and leadership experience to her role as President and CEO of Peak Performance, Inc.​ Throughout her career, Lisa has held leadership roles with some of the world’s most recognized manufacturing and industrial organizations, including Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America, Pfizer, INVISTA, a Koch company, TechnipFMC, and MFG Chemical. Her experience spans complex manufacturing supply chains, procurement, strategic planning, operational improvement, and leading cross-functional teams across North America.​

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 Peak Performance'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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Karen Fleury
Accounting Clerk & Payroll
Karen Fleury brings more than 30 years of experience in business operations, office management, payroll, and financial administration. Throughout her career, Karen has developed extensive expertise in managing daily business functions, supporting organizational needs, and ensuring accurate and efficient financial processes.
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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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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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Something Exciting Is Taking Shape
Our Advisory Board is growing. We’re bringing together manufacturing leaders, industry experts, and community partners who share our commitment to strengthening manufacturing and developing the workforce of the future. Stay tuned for our Advisory Board announcement coming soon.