2023 Seminars Schedule

Tuesday, October 3, 2023 - 10:30am

“We have always done it this way.” These 7 words can be among some of the most unknowingly harmful words to a company. With the introduction of Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing into the industry, there are more opportunities than ever to unlock hidden potential in your organization. This kind of tribal knowledge within a company can be a great benefit to any team. However, when processes are not in place to ensure this knowledge is passed down to the next generation of employees, a process that was once thought to be stable can unravel quickly. Taking a holistic approach to solving these issues is always best implemented with the right tools in place and we have seen firsthand that Cimco Software solutions can provide this for our clients.

After attending our seminar, you will walk away with a better understanding of how implementation of Machine Data Collection, File Management, Program Transfer, and Probing Solutions can ensure that your organization continues to bring on new business and growth while operating at the cutting edge of technology.

Joe Julien was born and raised around manufacturing professionals. With multiple family members in the CNC Manufacturing sales force, it wasn't long until he became one himself. After earning a degree in Industrial Engineering from the University in Iowa in 2018, Joe began a career as a Sales and Applications Engineer for Shopware Inc. He leads his customers to positive, cost-effective solutions by taking aim at process improvement and efficiency via Cimco Software.

Todd Rathkamp has been involved with CNC machining in Wisconsin since 1984. Todd started in the trade as a machinist, working his way up to foreman, then getting into machine tool and CAM software sales. Todd applies a consultative approach to sales, always taking his customers’ needs into consideration before his own.

Tuesday, October 3, 2023 - 12:00pm

Join us for a presentation and Q&A session focused on the vital importance of comprehensive robot maintenance. Discover why maintenance goes beyond grease and oil and learn about the multifaceted practices necessary for optimal robot performance and longevity. Bring your questions and unlock the key to maximizing your robotic investments and operational success.

As a former field service engineer, trainer and currently National Service Manager, Todd's ability to make things work and his genuine love for fixing and troubleshooting continues to make him an invaluable asset to customers and coworkers alike. Todd's ability to offer innovative solutions, even where previous integrators have faltered, has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor and a go-to expert in his field.

Tuesday, October 3, 2023 - 1:30pm

Fume management at the torch for robots and handheld torches.

The old way of doing things is no longer acceptable today. We must strive to get better, not only for our health but also to attract much needed talent into the industry. Knowing what we know today about the risks and long-term effects from exposure to welding fumes, what can we do to ensure that the industry remains an attractive career path for our future workforce? Learn about new technology for source capture fume extraction to protect against pollutants, such as, Manganese, Hexavalent Chromium and other harmful toxins present during the welding process.

DuWayne Bohrer – Product Manager, Hastings Air Energy Control, Inc.

DuWayne draws on 30 years of experience in the industrial air cleaning and ventilation energy control environment. DuWayne led the group that developed automation controls which have been saving companies thousands of dollars by optimizing performance for new and existing systems. DuWayne delivers solutions based on carefully chosen equipment models to achieve value for businesses in this age of “lean and green”. DuWayne has experience in every phase of the design-build process including meeting codes, standards, and regulations while delivering systems that provide the lowest cost-of-ownership.

James Logan, BME, MBA – Director of Sales, Southeast US Region, Hastings de Mexico, FumeVac Products, Hastings Air Energy Control, Inc.

With over 35 years of global commercial experience in the welding industry, James possesses in-depth knowledge of the principles, processes, and products required to effectively capture welding fume. 30 years of experience with a major manufacturer of welding equipment and consumables, including lengthy roles in Mexico and China, in addition to a recent role as V.P of Global Business Development at a high-performance welding accessories company, has provided invaluable knowledge of high-production manufacturing and its related unique challenges on all aspects of the welding environment. James helps to secure the company’s position as one of the leading North American providers of fume source capture welding solutions.

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 - 10:30am

An international speaker, author, and podcast host on topics of interest to educators, public policymakers, and private employers. On a mission to secure the American Dream for the next generation of STEM and Workforce talent, Kirchner hosts the weekly TechEdTM Podcast, featuring leaders in industry and education and serves as President of ATS/LAB Midwest, the leading distributor of world-class curriculum, eLearning, and training equipment. Kirchner writes monthly leadership columns appearing in Products Finishing and Production Machining magazines and is the author of “Teaching the Industrial Internet of Things: Preparing Students and Learners for Industry 4.0.” Previously, Kirchner led three world-class manufacturing companies during a 20+ career as an industrial CEO. He and his partners sold their last company, American Finishing Resources, to DuBois Chemicals in 2014. Kirchner serves on the boards of directors of several American companies and among his many volunteer activities is the First-Past President of the Education Dealers Association. He currently serves on the board of trustees of the American Technical Education Association and on the board of the Smart Automation Certification Alliance. He is a graduate of the Marquette University School of Business.

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 - 12:00pm

By attending this year’s show, it’s evident that you have a vested interest in a range of valuable objectives, including enhanced innovation, cost reduction, improved quality, streamlined lead times, and customization. Embracing the versatility of 3D printing technology can provide numerous advantages for businesses, regardless of their size. It is highly recommended that you make plans to attend this enlightening seminar presented by Joe Jones of Big Systems!

Joe is the owner of a nationally recognized "Value Added Re-seller" (VAR) of 3D and 2D Wide format printing equipment, software and supplies. Big Systems helps clients with multiple business solutions for wide format digital inkjet printing systems. They also focus on emerging technology for 3D printing, Rapid Prototyping, Additive Manufacturing, CAD / CAM Software and other technologies that support research, development and direct manufacturing.

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 - 1:30pm

We have been thinking about robots incorrectly. Over the next 10 years Wisconsin’s economy is projected to continually grow at 3%, yet during that same timeframe we will lose 1/3 of our available workforce (or 1 million able working bodies). Robots will be capable of bridging this 33% gap in workforce, but only if manufacturers know where to best utilize them. In order for your company to successfully implement the technology of tomorrow, several steps need to be taken today.

Robots do not make sense until your facility has achieved manufacturing transparency–that is full understanding to where and how your equipment is utilized. We call this the “Glass Factory.” First, your shop needs to understand how it currently measures productivity (Step 1). Most small- and medium-sized manufacturing facilities are unintentionally wasting 30-40% utilization potential. By passively monitoring equipment (Step 2), you can define an actual baseline so a plan for realistic growth can be put into place. Then utilizing the people you have today, building their skills as technology advances, and gaining their buy-in to the company’s trajectory will allow you to leverage automation (more on this later) and scale quickly (Step 3). This process will create a highly cross functional team that thinks proactively about the company’s future, is invested in the success of the company, and continuously identifies ways to make your business better. As you scale this system across your facility, you will gain ultimate insight into the efficacy of each machine (Step 4). The end result of this preparation work is a “Glass Factory,” (Step 5) or a level of transparency and efficiency in your facility that is unmatched by your competitors. After achieving Glass Factory, your facility is ready for automation because you have a skilled workforce to manage the technology, and you understand exactly where robots can be leveraged to maximize your production.

Matt Kownick is the Owner of Left Hand Engineering, a Milwaukee-based engineering firm which specializes in preparing small- and medium- manufacturing facilities for AI and automation. Matt brings an unparalleled approach to engineering -- merging logic and technical proficiencies with creative and divergent thinking. With this approach, he helps manufacturing facilities execute new and existing product development, continuous improvement, project management, capital expenditure projects, process flow, technical sales, production metrics, and more.

His love of waterskiing, manufacturing, and beer brought him to Milwaukee where he now helps Wisconsin manufacturing companies thrive through the AI revolution. He works alongside his team of talented engineers and product development specialists who all share his entrepreneurial mindset, a key trait in thinking like a business owner. Matt received his degree in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University School of Science and Technology.

Thursday, October 5, 2023 - 10:30am

Learn how Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) is becoming the regional leader for empowering your current and future workforce to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to positively transform your manufacturing operations. Combining education and training in established technologies with AI, WCTC can introduce or advance your utilization of Predictive Maintenance, Quality Monitoring with Computer Vision, Intelligent Automation (AI + Robotic Process Automation), and Demand Forecasting.

Mike Shiels has served as the Dean of the School of Applied Technologies at Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) since 2012. He leads WCTC’s automation, construction, engineering, graphics, transportation, advanced manufacturing programs, and related apprenticeships. Shiels has more than 35 years of years of production and leadership experience in higher education and advanced manufacturing industries. Currently, he is leading the manufacturing component of the proposed Artificial Intelligence Associate Degree program at WCTC.

Alli Jerger is an information technology professional with over 25 years of experience. She joined WCTC as the Associate Dean of Business Information Technology in 2023. She has helped lead the development of WCTC’s Artificial Intelligence certificates and proposed Associate Degree. Alli previously worked at the State of Wisconsin Department of Justice as part of the IT leadership team supporting organizational change management. Prior to her time at the Department of Justice, she worked as an IT consultant and technology change agent.
 

Nicki Kowalchuk is a Data & Analytics Instructor at Waukesha County Technical College. She has over 15 years of experience in database administration, Business Intelligence, and Data Analytics. In addition to teaching, Nicki continues to provide consulting services in data. She has built WCTC’s Data & Analytics program from the ground up, and is a key member of the team building out WCTC’s artificial intelligence programs.

Thursday, October 5, 2023 - 12:00pm

Abstract: The proliferation of Generative AI, such as ChatGPT, has revolutionized the way we do business, enabling remarkable advancements in content creation, automation, and innovation. However, alongside its benefits, Generative AI introduces a new realm of cybersecurity risks that companies must acknowledge and mitigate. These risks include the potential for AI-generated phishing attacks, leakage of intellectual property, and potential regulatory violations. In this seminar, we’ll discuss what Generative AI is, the security challenges posed by Generative AI, and strategies for safeguarding sensitive data.

Why attend? Those who attend this presentation will gain invaluable insights into navigating the convergence of innovation and security in the era of generative AI. As manufacturing increasingly adopts AI-driven processes, understanding the security challenges posed by generative AI and how to safeguard sensitive data is paramount. This presentation offers tailored strategies for mitigating risks specific to manufacturing, such as protecting proprietary.

Having spent over 20 years as a tech industry consultant, Jennifer has been a trusted advisor for countless organizations seeking innovative technology solutions. Her passion for technology and unyielding dedication to cybersecurity have positioned her as a respected authority in cybersecurity best practices. With a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment, Jennifer considers herself a cybersecurity crusader on a mission to safeguard businesses against the ever-evolving realm of cyber threats.

Tuesday, October 3, 2023 - 10:00am

These days, energy costs and saving money are on everybody’s mind. If you’re a large commercial user of electric power, you already know how much money it takes to power your facility – a LOT of money!

What if you could save 10, 15 and often as much as 20% on electric utility costs and reduce your building’s carbon footprint, all while helping the reach your net-zero goals? “Well YOU CAN!”

This seminar will take you on an accelerated journey how DataWrangler by CLOCworks started their business 4 years ago to solve an industry “problem” that most business leaders didn’t know they even had, or at least thought there wasn’t anything they could do about the problem. This Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) platform leverages the latest technologies of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to help you make informed decisions on energy usage and facility optimization.

Why someone would attend your presentation or how it applies to the manufacturing industry:

During this seminar, you will hear several case studies from various industries on strategies that helped them lower their electric bill costs. You’ll also hear about examples of how the DataWrangler platform helps predict and prescribe equipment optimization commonly found in manufacturing production facilities. Lastly, you’ll learn how to read your commercial electric bills to identify those “hidden” [in plain sight] charges that utility companies add on top of their fees for electrical consumption. If “knowledge is power”, our knowledge will save you power (and money).

Jim Koeppe is the President and CEO of CLOCworks Inc. He has an extensive background with high tech start-up companies in semiconductors, wireless communications, Internet of Things, and CleanTech industries. Jim is passionate about customer focused product design and has a unique ability directing highly technical organizations to provide valuable client solutions. Prior to co-founding CLOCworks, Jim served in roles of Software Business Lead, Software Product Manager, and Principal Engineer. As part of his experience, Jim created a new line of business, opened and managed a new facility, and hired a team of software engineers that designed a smart, cloud connected, software platform called DataWrangler that currently manages over $20 million dollars of energy assets.

Mike Roberts is Director of Energy Innovation at CLOCworks, Inc. Prior to joining CLOCworks in early 2023, Mike spent nearly 3 decades helping manufacturers design and develop new and innovative products in consumer and commercial industries. Mike has also helped companies navigate through “business transformation” that the Internet of Things (IoT) brings. Today, he helps businesses identify opportunities for cost savings and optimization with their facility’s use of electrical power.

Tuesday, October 3, 2023 - 11:30am

Recent reports say the average number of artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities that companies employ has doubled over the last few years 2018 to 2023. With its ability to produce text that mimics that of a human, ChatGPT, an OpenAI big language model, has caused waves in the tech sector. Companies of all sizes are now adapting AI chatbots that can handle everything from text generation to customer care.

Learn key takeaways on what is ChatGPT and OpenAI plus all the tools under the hood:

• What exactly is ChatGPT and OpenAI?
• How are successful businesses leveraging these technologies?
• Where can OpenAI be used in research and content development?

Matthew specializes in Web 3.0: Blockchain, AI, and ML. He is co-founder of Milwaukee Venture Partners Angel Network, Director of the UWM Business Innovation Incubator, co-founder of UWM’s Disruptive Technologies Lab, and Senior Lecturer at UWM’s Lubar College of Business and the School of Information Studies. He is also an adjunct faculty member at Marquette University. Matt was recently featured in the BizTimes as one of Wisconsin’s 275 Most Influential Business Leaders. He was also named a Notable Leader in Higher Education for the Class of 2023. He holds a B.S. in Engineering and an M.S. in Engineering from UWM. He earned his MBA from Marquette with a focus on entrepreneurship and holds a Professional Engineering (PE) License from the State of Wisconsin.

Tuesday, October 3, 2023 - 1:00pm

The manufacturing industry used to be safe from hackers, but times (and technology) have changed. Shops now utilize more network technology than ever before. Things like CNCs, robots, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), even automated warehouses have improved production and efficiency creating an technology-heavy, interconnected shop floor.

These Industrial Control Systems (ICS) have become targets of both high and low level cyber criminals and protecting your data and machinery is becoming a top priority. Ensuring the shop floor is safe from these criminals requires a new, comprehensive approach.

In this thought-provoking presentation, manufacturing cybersecurity specialist, Brett Surinak, provides insight on the new cyber threats targeting the industry and methods for mitigating and managing your risks.

Brett Surinak PMP, CSM, CSSGB is the President and Owner of Tech-Tastic, an Information Technology (IT) and Managed Services Provider (MSP) firm. He specializes in technological efficiency and security with a manufacturing focus. He hosts monthly webinars and creates content for video series regarding security and efficiency in the field. Prior to establishing Tech-Tastic, Brett served in senior management roles at several companies in Southeastern Wisconsin. Throughout his 25-year career in IT, Brett's expertise has guided growth for top clients in varying fields including manufacturing, accounting, education, and business.

In addition to decades of hands-on experience with Operational Technology cybersecurity, Brett holds several industry certifications and is a Project Manager Professional (PMP), Certified Scrum Master (CSM), and a Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB).

Tuesday, October 3, 2023 - 2:30pm

Robot programming is often thought of as specialized and complicated. In this seminar we will discuss new and powerful tools from Fanuc Robotics. In this seminar we will cover the following topics and demonstrate them live using a FANUC CRX robot.

• Manual guided teaching
• Drag and drop programming
• Palletizing
• Using force control to find parts
• Macro examples
• Offline robot programming (RoboGuide examples)
• FANUC SDK for tablet teach pendant, example of how to make your own screens and button
• Q&A

Tuesday, October 3, 2023 - 3:30pm

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 - 10:00am

Learn how to get started on evaluating robots for your company and calculating the true ROI of robots. 

Many companies know they need robots to help improve productivity and reduce costs, but they sometimes do nothing for fear of the cost. In reality, robotic systems can have an ROI in as little as 6-12 months. This is because ROI is based on more than just calculating the hourly wage of a human operator to do the same job. There are many other business costs and higher profit potential to consider before figuring out if a robotic system is a good choice for your company. Only when all of these numbers have been calculated will you arrive at a true ROI. Learn about calculating the true ROI of robots with Acieta’s Regional Automation Manager, Steve Apel.

In his role, Apel helps solve customer challenges through the adoption of new robotic automation technologies. He has years of work experience in metal fabrication as an operator in a variety of machine shop functions, including press brakes and welding. From a young age, he grew up in metalworking by building race cars with his father, and later becoming a stock car driver who competes throughout the Midwest. Apel’s life-long first-hand experience in fabrication gives him a special understanding of the real nature of machine shop technology and automation.

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 - 11:30am

We’ve assembled a panel of seasoned industrial robot users that will share some of their most important “Lessons Learned” as they integrated robots on their factory floors. Kent Lorenz and Matt Kirchner will lead a fast-paced and informative panel discussion that will cover some of the most critical lessons they’ve learned over the years, and what they want to share with someone who is thinking bout installing their first industrial robot.

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 - 1:00pm

Abstract

Generative AI is quickly inundating every field and industry, but very few know where to integrate it into their processes. As more information is shared, the more confusing and overwhelming the idea can be. In this workshop, Justin Kerley will break down generative AI applications for manufacturing marketers, and where it can be used to create efficiences and free up time for strategy and innovation.

AI will change the way manufacturing marketers work, streamlining processes like technical content development, customer support, and marketing data analysis. This seminar offers a behind the scenes look at AI prompt-writing, along with tips that you can start applying today.

The seminar will cover:

• Fundamentals and definitions of generative AI
• AI applications for manufacturing marketing
• AI limitations for manufacturing marketing
• Tips for crafting strong generative prompts
• “Behind the scenes” walkthrough of crafting content using generative AI

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 - 2:30pm

This seminar is a unique opportunity to learn from both business and banking professionals. They will provide you with a well-rounded perspective on budget management and investment strategies, enabling you to make impactful and cost-effective shop improvements. This comprehensive approach will empower you to drive business growth, enhance customer satisfaction, and increase profits, all while staying within your budget constraints. Don’t miss this chance to transform your business through intelligent investment strategies.

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 - 3:30pm

Thursday, October 5, 2023 - 10:00am

This session will educate you on the outstanding options available for ASCM/APICS supply chain certifications offered through the ASCM Wisconsin Chapter.

Why do so many companies value these Certification courses including CPIM Certified in Planning and Inventory Management Certification, CSCP Certified Supply Chain Professional and CLTD Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution?

The session will provide those attending the opportunity to get an understanding of the APICS Courses and programs available as well as steps to Certification in the CPIM (Certified in Planning and Inventory Management, CSCP Certified Supply Chain Professional, and CLTD Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution.

Attend the session of visit our website for more details https://wisconsin.ascm.org/index.php

Edward Haynes, CLTD, CSCP - Over 30 years of experience working in industrial supply chains in automotive, electronics assembly, food and beverage and industrial equipment manufacturing. Currently working for Lemberg Electrical Contractor on complex construction projects applying six sigma principles to complete projects on time and in budget. Expertise in building value added business relationships, strategic planning, material management, implementation, sourcing and procurement for multi-site manufacturing and distribution operations.

Serving as President of ASCM Wisconsin Chapter in supporting professionals in supply chain management. Recently attended the 2023 ASCM National Conference in Louisville KY.

Thursday, October 5, 2023 - 11:30am

During this session, we will delve into the comprehensive and innovative BS Automation Leadership program offered by UW-Stout. This distinctive program stands as a beacon in the education landscape, catering to forward-thinking individuals with a penchant for technology and a vision for the future. Whether you are a recent graduate from a SACA-member school, possess a degree in automation, mechatronics, or related fields, or are simply intrigued by the prospects of Industry 4.0, the BS Automation Leadership program opens doors to a realm of leadership possibilities.

Unlike any other degree, the BS Automation Leadership program not only equips you with technological prowess but also paves a seamless path towards leadership roles in the Industry 4.0 landscape. From K12 high school students aiming to embark on an automation-oriented journey, all the way to aspiring master’s degree seekers, this program caters to individuals at various stages of their educational and professional journey, ensuring their growth without necessitating a geographical shift.