Join AGMA and ABMA for this Member-exclusive event
This year we are meeting “Deep in the Heart of Texas” in funky downtown Austin!
The 2025 AGMA/ABMA Annual Meeting will feed off the energy of this weird, wild city—giving attendees a dynamic experience in the meeting rooms and out-and-about. Check out the agenda and list of speakers below!
Join gear and bearing professionals from companies all over the world as the industry gathers to learn from experts in economics, trade, workforce development, political forecasts, and AI in manufacturing.
There are overarching issues affecting the whole industry, including the workforce shortage, the skills gap, and technology and AI adoption. With executives representing companies of all sizes and industry thought leaders, the depth and breadth of knowledge and viewpoints at the Annual Meeting is a goldmine.
Top 5 Reasons to Attend
| 1. Educational Opportunities Connect with presenters, association leaders, and sponsors, for the opportunity to ask questions, follow the latest innovations, and gain varying perspectives. 2. Learn From Your Competition Collaborate with other industry leaders to discuss best practices and share ideas about overcoming common challenges. 3. Inspiration and creativity A change of scenery and meeting new people opens the door to strategic relationships and gives you the time to develop creative ideas and innovations. 4. Strengthened interpersonal bonds Meeting colleagues and customers in person creates genuine connections and fosters lasting relationships. 5. Have some fun! It wouldn’t be an Annual Meeting without fantastic and fun curated networking events, dinners, and immersive activities “deep in the heart” of Austin. |
Register as an AGMA member
Register as an ABMA member
Hotel Information
Hilton Austin
500 East 4th Street
Austin, TX 78701
Discounted room rates at the Hotel Austin are available for $309 per night. The special rate is available until 3/24/2025. Book your room in the AGMA Block.
By booking in the AGMA room block, you receive a variety of benefits, including guaranteed accommodations, better networking opportunities with your peers, special guest status at the host hotel, and flexible cancellation terms if your plans change. AGMA advises against booking hotel rooms through third party booking sites such as Hotels.com, as there may be hidden fees, limited flexibility, and fewer rewards. AGMA does not work with a housing company and only AGMA Staff will reach out to you with details regarding the room block; any other companies that reach out to you regarding room reservations may be fraudulent and are not endorsed by AGMA. If you need assistance with your accommodations or have issues with the booking link provided by AGMA, please contact events@agma.org.
Become an Annual Meeting Sponsor!
Get your company’s brand and services in front of the industry’s top executives by securing your sponsorship today. Sponsorship opportunities have been split into four packages:
- Platinum
- Gold
- Silver
- Bronze
If you have any questions regarding sponsoring the Annual Meeting, email brinkley@agma.org
Registration Rates
Rates
1st Member Registrant
(Early Bird*/Regular)
$1,525/$1,625
Additional Registrant
(Early Bird*/Regular)
$1,425/$1,525
Spouse or
Companion Pass
(Early Bird*/Regular)
*Rate increase on increase 2/1/25.
$750/$800
Discount Codes
Discount codes cannot be combined with other discount codes.
20FirstAM25
Save $125
For individuals attending for the first time.
20NextGen25
Save $150
For future leaders, ages 40 or below, who are individuals attending for the first time.
Register as an AGMA member
Register as an ABMA member
Event Schedule
- Wednesday, April 23
- Thursday, April 24
- Friday, April 25
- Saturday, April 26
12:00pm – 5:00pm
AGMA Finance Committee & Board Meeting
Meeting Room 404, 414
Invitation Only. Lunch included.
6:30pm – 9:00pm
Combined ABMA Board, AGMA Board, and AGMA Foundation Dinner
The Reverbery
Invitation only.
10:00am – 5:30pm
Registration Open
Austin Grand Foyer Ballroom
8:00am – 9:00am
AGMA/ABMA Combined Board Breakfast
Meeting Room 404
9:00am – 12:00pm
ABMA Board Meeting
Meeting Room 615
11:30am – 1:30pm
AGMA Foundation Board of Trustees Meeting
Meeting Room 616
1:30pm – 2:30pm
ABMA Business Meeting
Meeting Room 404
2:30pm – 3:30pm
AGMA Members’ Meeting
Salon JK – 6th Floor
3:30pm – 4:00pm
AGMA/ABMA Refreshment Break
6th Floor Pre-Function
Spouse & Companion Meet-Up
6th Floor Pre-Function
Spouses, partners, travel companions, friends, family, and any other guests of Annual Meeting attendees are welcome to attend the Spouse and Companion Meet Up on Thursday afternoon to kick off the Annual Meeting. Whether you have attended the meeting many times or this is your first time joining us, this is a great way to get to know the significant others of AGMA and ABMA members and build relationships with peers attending the meeting.
4:00pm – 5:30pm
General Session I
Salon JK – 6th Floor
- 4:00pm – 4:15pm
Welcome Remarks - 4:15pm – 5:15pm
Outthink the Competition: Adapting to Change and
Shaping the Future of Manufacturing
Kaihan Krippendorff
The manufacturing landscape is experiencing accelerated disruption and change. We face a myriad of threats and challenges- from technological advancements and shifting regulations to labor dynamics and market fluctuations. It is vital for companies to remain agile and proactive in how they adapt. Conducting “business as usual” will predictably lead to being left behind. But such times of change create opportunity for those willing to think strategically and boldly about how to differentiate themselves from the competition.
In this keynote, globally recognized management thinker and Founder of Outthinker, Kaihan Krippendorff, will equip participants with practical tools and tips to navigate change, drive growth, create competitive advantage, and better business outcomes.
This session will take participants through:
- The 9Ps Framework- to systematically examine the essential components of the manufacturer’s business models to identify overlooked areas ripe for enhancement
- The Outthinker Playbook- five strategic patterns and mindsets being used by outperforming companies
- How you as an individual can lead through these times of change and support your people to do the same
* Participants will have access to the Outthinker Process toolkit and workbook that they can use with their teams to apply learnings from this session.
- 5:15pm – 5:30pm
Closing Remarks
5:30pm – 7:00pm
Welcome Reception
6th Floor Pre-Function
Catch up with old friends and make new connections at the Thursday Welcome Reception! This networking event is the perfect opportunity to network with other gear and bearing executives over drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Spouses and companions welcome!
8:30am – 12:30pm
Registration Open
Austin Grand Foyer Ballroom
8:30am – 9:00am
Networking Breakfast: Attendees and Spouses
6th Floor Pre-Function
9:30am – 11:30am
Spouse and Companion Activity
Meeting Room 615
9:00am – 1:00pm
General Session II
Salon JK – 6th Floor
- 9:00am – 9:10am
Welcome Remarks - 9:10am – 10:10am
U.S. Economy and Business Outlook: Just how “soft” is the soft landing?
Jim Meil
The non-stop volatility of the 2020’s decade concluded another chapter in 2024 leaving us wondering what’s ahead in 2025 and beyond. A US Election with consequences to start playing out as the AGMA/ABMA meeting convenes, wars in the Mideast and Ukraine that last for year(s) seemingly without end, and a Federal Reserve winning the inflation battle and finally cutting interest rates, all contribute to a risky mix.
This leaves business managers breathless and wondering, “What’s next?… I could really use a break!”
Jim Meil will try to shed some light and offer some insights on whether this is the “soft landing” and, if so, what it means for AGMA and ABMA members. He will offer a coherent view of current business conditions and an outlook for 2025 and beyond for the domestic and international economies. His forecasts are founded in part on facts, in part on informed guesswork. He will go into additional detail for machinery markets, materials costs, interest rates and energy prices and look forward to answering your questions. - 10:10am – 11:10am
The Future of Manufacturing: Technology and Workforce
Jake Hall
The industry is changing. Older generations are retiring from manufacturing; companies are scrambling to fill production demands, keep equipment running, and automate their organizations and processes. As a whole, we must work together to engage with the general public to change misconceptions of manufacturing and drive awareness to new solutions such as digitization, automation, AI, and robotics.
In this session, we will highlight how manufacturers are finding success in:
- Leveraging technology in new ways to support manufacturers
- Adapting new types of automation from Industry 4.0
- Engage the new workforce to attract and retain younger generations
- 11:15am – 11:45am
Break - 11:45am – 12:45pm
Julie Holmes - 12:45pm – 1:00pm
Welcome Remarks
2:30pm – 4:30pm
Group Networking Activity
Meeting Room 400/402
TBD
7:00pm – 10:00pm
Buck Wild Reception and Dinner
Bull & Bowl Austin
Saddle-up for a wild ride at the Buck Wild Reception and Dinner! Hosted at the renowned Bull & Bowl, the evening promises an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the typical networking event. Strap on your cowboy boots and test your skills on the mechanical bull, where you can channel your inner rodeo star. For a more leisurely challenge, grab a ball and try your hand at the classic sport of duck pin bowling, or challenge your colleagues to a game of pool. Immerse yourself in the unique culture of Austin with music, food, and fun! Spouses and companions welcome!
8:30am – 12:30pm
Registration Open
Austin Grand Foyer Ballroom
8:30am – 9:30am
Networking Breakfast: Attendees and Spouses
6th Floor Pre-Function
9:30am – 11:30am
Spouse and Companion Activity
Meeting Room 615
9:30am – 12:30pm
General Session III
Salon JK – 6th Floor
- 9:30am – 9:35am
Welcome Remarks - 9:40am – 10:40am
Leading in the Age of AI: Boost Productivity, Empower People, and Upgrade Your Business
Laurie Harbour
90% of leading businesses are investing in AI, but only 14%
of employees feel they have the skills needed to use it. This program bridges
the gap. Together, we’ll explore what you need to know to embrace AI now, from
saving you hours every day to redefining customer engagement. You’ll learn to
identify the perfect AI tools for your needs and master the art of working
effectively alongside AI. From hot tips to cool tools, this program equips you
to thrive in the age of AI – join us and unlock a world of innovation,
excellence, and efficiency. - 10:45am – 11:15am
Break - 11:15am – 12:15pm
Betsy Allen-Manning - 12:15pm – 12:30pm
Closing Remarks
12:30pm – 6:00pm
Leisure Period/Afternoon on your own
Optional group activities
6:30pm – 9:30pm
Awards Dinner
Salon JK – 6th Floor
Celebrate some of the best and brightest in the industry at our Awards Dinner to close out the Annual Meeting. The event will begin with a cocktail hour to show off your business elegant attire, followed by a seated dinner and awards ceremony. Spouses and companions welcome
9:30pm – 11:30pm
After Party
The Reverbery
It would not be the AGMA/ABMA Annual Meeting if we didn’t end the night with something fun! Immediately following the Awards Dinner, join us for a nightcap at the After Party, where we will dance the night away and take the opportunity to say goodbye to friends and colleagues before parting ways. Spouses and companions welcome!
Speakers
- Betsy Allen-Manning
- Jake Hall
- Laurie Harbour
- Julie Holmes
- Kaihan Krippendorff
- Jim Meil
Kaihan Krippendorff
CEO
Outthinker
Kaihan Krippendorff is a renowned business management thinker and the CEO of Outthinker, a global think-tank and network of chief strategy and innovation executives shaping the future of business. Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus has said, “Kaihan shows that with a compelling idea anyone can change the world” and that message has made Kaihan one of the most sought-after business speakers in the world.
A former McKinsey consultant, Kaihan is recognized by Global Gurus and Thinkers50 as one of the top 30 thinkers in business. His work has helped organizations generate breakthrough ideas that have generated over $2.5 billion in new revenue growth to date, for organizations in technology, industrial manufacturing, consumer goods, financial services, and technology industries. His clients include a long list of mid-market companies as well as some of the worlds most recognizable names including Daikin, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft, United Technologies, and Oshkosh.
Kaihan is the host of the Outthinkers and the Strategy at Scale podcasts. A prolific writer, Kaihan’s ideas are frequently published in Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and other leading media outlets. He has published six books, including bestsellers “Outthink the Competition” and “Driving Innovation from Within.” His most recent book, “Proximity” was named a “Must-Read” by Adam Grant and Malcolm Gladwell’s Next Big Idea Club.
Despite his busy schedule, he finds time to teach at Wharton Executive Ed, Florida International University, and New York University; and share his ideas as a guest in podcast, print, and TV interviews.
He holds a doctorate in strategy and has degrees from the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering, Wharton, Columbia Business School, and London Business School. With a mother from Bangladesh, father from Germany, and wife from Latin America, Kaihan is a global citizen who brings a holistic, diverse, and worldly perspective to everything he does. He is a passionate cook and lives in Miami, Florida, with his wife, three kids, two cats, and a dog.
Jim Meil
Principal, Industry Analysis
ACT Research
Jim Meil has been recognized as a leading industrial sector economist and planner for over 40 years. At ACT Research, he is responsible for analysis, commentary, and presentations on the North American economy, and analyzing how goods-producing sectors are contributing to the demand for capital equipment, with a particular focus on off-highway and commercial vehicles.
His projects and responsibilities at ACT Research include directing ACT’s analysis and predictions of the U.S. and global economies, collaborating with the ACT Research team on commercial vehicle and truck trailer forecasts, and special client projects and presentations. Past projects include the successful launch of ACT’s vehicle electrification multi-client studies in 2018 and 2020, which are now prominent parts of the company’s product portfolio.
Prior to joining ACT Research, Meil spent almost 30 years in the Corporate Planning and Treasury departments of Eaton Corporation, retiring from the position of Vice President and Chief Economist in April 2014. At Eaton, he was responsible for forecasting North American and international markets in automotive, commercial vehicle, off-highway equipment, aerospace, and electrical equipment.
He has been a contributor to Blue Chip Economic Indicators and The Wall Street Journal monthly U.S. economic forecast panels at ACT and at Eaton, and is frequently quoted in national and transportation industry press.
Meil received first-place recognition in the Wall Street Journal’s survey of 50 forecasters and has ranked among USA Today’s “Top 10 Economic Forecasters” for accuracy.
He previously served on the Board of Directors for the National Association for Business Economics, the professional trade group of business economists, and worked for Chase Econometrics and for Burroughs Corporation before joining Eaton.
He holds a Master of Business Administration degree in finance and a Bachelor of Arts (with honors) in economics from the University of Chicago.
Jake Hall
“The Manufacturing Millennial”
Jake Hall known as the Manufacturing Millennial is an advocate manufacturing, automation, and skilled trades by helping revolutionize the way people and companies present through social media. With over 100,000 Followers and 150,000,000+ views on his content, he ignites conversations about the latest in manufacturing and automation to excite the current and future workforce on innovation.
Julie Holmes
Tech Strategist and Founder
Smarter HQ LTD
Julie Holmes is your friendly neighborhood nerd and AI expert. She’s an inventor and tech founder with over 25 years of experience leading enterprise technology. As an award-winning speaker, Julie captivates audiences with her wicked smarts, cheeky humor and a laundry list of cool apps.
Julie guides executives on AI strategy, equips leaders with tech-ready teams, and shows sales pros smarter selling with AI—not just talking tech, but making it relatable, practical, and downright exciting.
Her mission: help organizations simplify and apply AI to business.
AI might feel like a freight train – you’ve either got to hop on board or be left behind. Julie’s here to make sure
you’re not only on the train, but ready to drive it. And yes, you can blow the whistle!
Laurie Harbour
Partner, Manufacturing, Retail and Distribution
Wipfli
Laurie Harbour is a partner with more than 35 years of manufacturing and consulting experience. Prior to joining Wipfli, she was the co-owner of Harbour Results, Inc., and has spent her career helping clients develop strategies, improve operations, reduce risk and optimize business performance. Clients benefit from Laurie’s ability to work with leadership teams to assess the current state of their business and provide strategic and operation recommendations for improvement.
Laurie is recognized as an industry thought leader, frequently quoted in business and trade publications, and speaks at various forums on topics including leadership, cultural transformation, and manufacturing operations improvement.
Laurie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Operations Management and Human Resources from the University of Michigan-Dearborn. She has received multiple accolades, including Crain’s “Notable Women in Manufacturing” and Plastics News’ “Women Breaking the Mold” in 2018 and Automotive Women in Manufacturing Hall of Fame inductee in 2019.
Betsy Allen-Manning
Owner
Destination Workplace™
Featured on FOX, CBS, ABC, NBC & TEDx, Betsy Allen-Manning is an internationally known leadership speaker, best-selling author, & company culture expert. Her specialty is helping leaders attract, engage and retain the best talent in a hypercompetitive marketplace.
Betsy is the owner of Destination Workplace™, one of the top leadership training companies in Dallas, Texas. Through her dedicated research, expertise in human behavior, & experience managing at 5-star hotels, she is honored to have trained over 15,000 leaders & teams for small businesses, franchises & associations, to multi-billion-dollar corporations, such as Toshiba, Aflac, Fidelity & the US Department of Defense.
Her mission is to help leaders put purpose, accountability & loyalty back into the workplace.
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AGMA’S ON-SITE SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR COVID-19
In order to keep attendees safe, AGMA will be complying with COVID-19 safety guidelines and local regulations in all event spaces. Each participant will also be required to sign the AGMA Student Commitment to Safety Agreement.
If you have any questions regarding these protocols, please email events@agma.org
Policies
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