The program has been released for the much-anticipated return of the Smart Manufacturing Conference, taking place on Wednesday 20 September, as part of day one of the Modern Manufacturing Expo at the Sydney Showground.
With a theme of ‘Connected, Automated and Digital Transformation’, the jam-packed speaker line-up has been designed to provide practical advice and solutions for manufacturers looking to transform, and gain a competitive edge in a fast-paced world.
“The Conference offers manufacturers a unique opportunity to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in technology, including automation, AI, IoT, and other related technologies,” said Marie Kinsella, CEO of the International Exhibition & Conference (IEC) Group, organiser of the Expo.
“We are proud to announce digital business architect and technology leader Ram Veeramony as our Smart Manufacturing Conference chair.”
Also just announced, Ed Husic, minister for science and industry, will give the opening address at the Smart Manufacturing Expo. His address will focus on the government’s vision to rebuild manufacturing and sovereign capability, exploring new technologies for Australian manufacturers, and future opportunities from the National Reconstruction Fund.
“Husic has been an outspoken advocate for enhancing Australia’s manufacturing capabilities, and his presence at the 2023 Modern Manufacturing Expo is set to be hugely valuable for attendees,” added Kinsella.
Following his opening address at the Smart Manufacturing Conference, Minister Husic will also officially open the 2023 Modern Manufacturing Expo in the Expert Arena, on the Show floor from 9:50am.
Hear from Australia’s innovators
One of the highlights of the Smart Manufacturing Conference is the opportunity to hear from some of the industry’s leading experts.
Delegates will learn about the latest trends, best practices, and success stories from some of the most innovative companies in the industry, including Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, GE Digital, Bosch AU, APPMA, and Dulux.
Presentations include:
- ‘Case Study: Smart Manufacturing Transformation Roadmap and Lessons Learnt.’ Speakers: John Broadbent, Founder, Industry 4.0 Strategy & Mentoring, Realise Potential and Clement Chen, Plant Manager, Packaging Services Division – Australia Coca-Cola Euro Pacific Partners.
- ‘GE Digital and the Smart Factory.’ Speakers: David Berridge, Senior Sales Manager – Digital Channel Sales, ANZ, GE Digital and Geoff Morris, Senior Solution Architect – APAC, GE Digital.
- ‘The Future of Manufacturing according to AI.’ Speaker: Mergen Pillay, Director, Factoryworx.
- ‘Bridging the gap between IT and OT.’ Speakers: Phil Seboa, Automation Enthusiast and Glen Fry, Founder and Director, iControls. Joined live from the US by Kent Melville, Director of Sales Engineering, Inductive Automation.
- Industry Panel – ‘How Industrial IoT is changing the manufacturing sector.’ Panel is made up of representatives from GE Digital, ifm, Bosch AU, Romar Engineering, Dulux and HSO.
- ‘How to prepare for your Industry 4.0 digital transformation.’ Speaker: James Balzary, CEO, TilliT.
- ‘Transforming Manufacturing Performance at GME with Lean Manufacturing and Industry 4.0.’ Speakers: Tim McLean, Managing Director, TXM Lean Solutions and Armando Lecaros, Operations Director, GME Limited.
- Panel: ‘Packaging 4.0.’ Panel chair: Mark Dingley, Chair of the APPMA, joined by selected APPMA members.
- ‘Charging into the Future: Modern ERP for Manufacturers.’ Speakers: Priscilla Liew, Practice Manager and Steve Evans, Principal Consultant, SOCO.
The program also includes an opening government address, where a representative will share their vision to rebuild manufacturing and sovereign capability, exploring new technologies for Australian manufacturers, and future opportunities from the National Reconstruction Fund.
The future is now
Attending the Smart Manufacturing Conference is not only a chance to learn from industry experts, but also an excellent platform for networking with fellow professionals, the organiser says. It provides attendees with the opportunity to connect with other manufacturers, and stay informed about the latest trends and technologies driving the industry’s progress.
“We understand that many local manufacturers are struggling with the rising cost of materials and labour,“ said Kinsella.
“That’s why a core purpose of this Conference is to provide attendees with valuable insights and information for streamlining manufacturing processes, reducing costs, and increasing efficiency – everything needed to improve a company’s bottom line.”
The Smart Manufacturing Conference is a crucial event that manufacturers cannot afford to overlook, according to Kinsella. It offers a comprehensive program featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, interactive sessions, and demonstrations, ensuring participants stay ahead of the curve by staying informed about the latest advancements in smart manufacturing.
“The future of manufacturing is now – join the innovators or be left behind,” Kinsella concluded.
