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.
About the Event
As the automotive industry undergoes a transformative shift, the Electric Mobility Innovations Conference offers a platform to explore cutting-edge advancements shaping the future of transportation. Attendees will gain valuable insights into emerging trends in electric vehicle technology, infrastructure expansion, and policy development. From panel discussions on sustainable battery solutions to workshops on scaling EV production, this event will provide actionable strategies to address industry challenges and seize opportunities. Whether you're a stakeholder in energy, manufacturing, or policy, this conference is a chance to collaborate with leaders driving the electrification revolution.
EVENT WILL START IN
TICKETS
2025 CONFERENCE AGENDA
(Speaker list is being continuously updated.)
Opening
8:00am
Registration & Networking Breakfast
8:30am
Welcome
Denise (Rice) Hall
President & CEO, Smart Factory Institute, operated by Peak Performance
Panel Discussion
8:45am
The EV Revolution: Are We Ready for the Shift?
An examination of the current state of the EV market and anticipated shift to electrification. Explore clean energy programs and consumer adoption. Discuss how manufacturers can proactively engage with policy makers to shape favorable regulations and incentives that expedite electric vehicle adoption.
Rick Youngblood
Executive Director, Tennessee Automotive Manufacturers Association
Sam Wills
Regional Director, Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
Alexa Voytek
Deputy Director, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation
Drew Frye
Manager Commercial Energy, Tennessee Valley Authority
Feature Presentation
9:30am
Economic Impacts of Electric Mobility
Join us for an insightful presentation by a leading economist from the University of Tennessee Boyd Center. In this session, we will explore the economic implications of the transition to electric vehicles. Hear about trends in consumer behavior, supply chain transformations, and the potential for job creation in the evolving electric mobility landscape. Gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that arise as industry pivots towards sustainable practices and innovative technologies and potential economic impact of the New Administration.
Matt Harris
Boyd Distinguished Professor of Health Economics in the Boyd Center for Business and Economic Research and the Department of Economics in the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee.
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Session Speaker
10:30am
The Future of Automotive Intelligence: Merging EVs with Autonomous Technology
Explore the synergy between electric vehicles and autonomous technologies, focusing on how manufacturers can lead in developing smart, connected vehicles.
Kevin Heaslip
Director and Professor Center for Transportation Research, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Panel Discussion
11:00am
Is the Current Workforce Ready for an Electrified Future?
Engage in a conversation about the skills gap in the automotive workforce, the role of education institutions and whether current training programs can keep pace with technological advancements in EV manufacturing.
Skylar Randolph
Director of Business Development; Peak Performance
Brian Nolen
NA Director Manufacturing Learning; Denso
Larry Flatt
Executive Director, Automation and Robotics Training ; MSCC
Session Speaker
11:45am
The Infrastructure Race: Bridging the Gap to a Sustainable Future
Explore the pressing challenges of scaling up infrastructure to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles (EV) and the critical integration of renewable energy sources. Hear how innovative urban planning and smart infrastructure management can pave the way for a sustainable future.
Mina Sartipi
Guerry Professor at UTC, Founding Director of CUIP, Executive Director of UTC Research Institute, Joint Appointment with ORNL, University of Tennessee Chattanooga
Lunch
12:15pm
Lunch catered by:
radley-Central High School, Culinary Program
Session Speaker
1:00pm
Evolving Electric Vehicle and Charging Technology
Phoenix Contact E-Mobility has been involved in electric vehicle charging technology for over 13 years, supplying vehicle charging inlets to global automakers along with charging cables and handles to charging station manufacturers around the world.
In this session, Mike Brooks will review:
-An overview of vehicle charging technology
-Evolving charging technology standards
-Future trends in charging infrastructure
Mike Brooks
Market Segment Manager - EMobility ; Phoenix Contact
Session Speaker
1:20pm
Navigating the EV Software Landscape: FocustApps Perspective
The EV revolution is here, but hidden challenges in software threaten to slow us down. Join me as we uncover the critical software hurdles EV manufacturers face and explore how FocustApps delivers innovative, data-driven solutions to navigate this complex landscape.
Becky Faith
Director of Business Development ; FocustApps
Session Speaker
1:45pm
Innovation and Startups: How Tennessee is Attracting Top Talent in the Sustainable Mobility Space
Hear about the dynamic landscape of sustainable mobility and Tennessee's strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts that are positioning the state as a hub for innovation. Tasia will share insights on the unique advantages Tennessee offers to startups, including access to resources, a supportive ecosystem, and a vibrant community of innovators. She will also discuss how fostering creativity and sustainability is not only vital for economic growth but essential for building a greener future. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how Tennessee is leading the charge in attracting top talent and driving change in the sustainable mobility sector.
Tasia Malakasis
CEO, The Company Lab (CO.LAB)
Closing
2:15pm
Closing Remarks
Denise Rice
President & CEO, Peak Performance Inc., Operators of the Smart Factory Institute
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