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Laurie Harbour

As President and CEO of Harbour Results Inc., Laurie Harbour leads a team of analysts and manufacturing consultants to help small- to medium- sized manufacturers develop short- and long-term strategies, improve their operations, reduce risks and optimize business. Spending most of her life around the manufacturing industry, she utilized her experience and knowledge to found HRI in 2005. Since that time, Laurie has been responsible for developing both the consulting services and targeted tools to profitably grow the organization into a leading manufacturing consulting firm.​

As a trusted advisor to the North American manufacturing industry, HRI monitors, researches and analyzes the manufacturing value stream to identify strengths and weaknesses, gaps and risks, and business and operational opportunities in an effort to help the industry transform to be more successful in the global marketplace. Additionally, the company is the leading forecaster for the automotive tool and die industry, collecting and analyzing data on a regular basis through Harbour IQ, our proprietary market intelligence tool. Laurie and her team utilize this information along with their expertise to help companies solve problems and improve business.

​Electrifying the Road Ahead: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in the Battery Electric Vehicle Industry​
This presentation is a comprehensive analysis of the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) industry's current state, focusing on key drivers, challenges, and future projections. The BEV market has witnessed exponential growth in recent years, driven by factors such as technological advancements, environmental concerns, and government policies promoting sustainable transportation. However, the industry is facing a slowdown influenced by various factors.​

During this presentation Laurie Harbour will share key insights collected in their recent BEV Market Study including factors influencing the automakers decisions to slow down their BEV strategies as well as current vehicle production and launch forecasts. Additionally, she will highlight potential opportunities for suppliers within the BEV industry as well as best practices for manufacturers to navigate the evolving marketplace successfully. ​

By examining the current landscape of the BEV industry, attendees will gain valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of electric mobility. This presentation aims to equip participants with actionable strategies to capitalize on the evolving market while effectively managing risks and uncertainties.​

Cara Walton

As a director at Harbour Results, Inc., Walton runs the company’s manufacturing intelligence tool - Harbour IQ. She is responsible for the strategic direction and growth as well as managing all data acquisition and intelligence gathering. Since its inception, Harbour IQ has collected and analyzed millions of data points from thousands of manufacturing companies on business and operation performance; established itself the leading manufacturing benchmarking resource with more than 7 years of trended data; and, launched a market studies division conducting custom market studies for manufacturers across all durable goods industries. ​

Additionally, Walton studies economic, business, trade and tariff trends impacting the manufacturing industry and consults with clients on what key factors they should be monitoring and how to use the data and information to develop or modify business strategies. ​
As a thought leader in economics and manufacturing, Walton is frequently called upon to present in person and via webinars to help manufacturers better understand the marketplace as well as share the data and information collected through Harbour IQ.

Molding the Future of Healthcare: Opportunities in Medical Manufacturing
​ As a pivotal component of medical device production, medical molding plays a crucial role in the creation of intricate and specialized components used in various healthcare applications. The presentation begins by examining the current state of the U.S. medical manufacturing industry, providing insights into its size, scope, and potential for growth.​

Additionally, Cara Walton will provide an analysis of the current competitive landscape in medical manufacturing is presented, identifying key players, technological trends, and market dynamics helping to shaping the industry and its supply chain. She will also share data from Harbour Results’ recent Manufacturing Pulse Study which gathered feedback and insights from manufacturers currently working in the medical industry. Finally, valuable insights into future opportunities and challenges shops should consider when entering or growing their medical molding business.​

The presentation equips attendees with actionable insights to capitalize on the evolving landscape of medical manufacturing and arms them with the information to help make better, more informed business decisions. ​ ​

Mike Laurendeau

Mike Laurendeau is the OEM Accounts and Eastern US Sales Manager for Caron Engineering, Inc., based out of Wells, ME. Mike has over 10 years of industry experience helping customers find the right solutions to optimize and automate their manufacturing processes.

Smart Technology Systems: Automating Each Step of the Manufacturing Process​?
Manufacturing is a complex process, and every step of the way requires careful consideration. A smart manufacturing system is not a one-size fits all solution, but a collection of technologies that work together to optimize and automate unique manufacturing processes. For this presentation, we will explore the best-fit automation solutions for your manufacturing challenges and operations.​

​In today’s manufacturing world, it’s vital to have the right tools in place to monitor, automate and control the production process. In this presentation, we'll discuss the innovative technologies available to automate production before, during, and after cutting. From RFID tool management and adaptive tool monitoring to machine tending integration and automated compensation feedback to the CNC, we'll help you identify the best-fit solutions for your operations. Some of the immediate benefits from implementing the technologies for discussion will include process automation and unmanned operations, elimination of error, setup and cycle time reduction, tool wear and breakage detection, and optimizing productivity with some exciting new technology that will help you connect and control your entire manufacturing environment.​

Mathieu Desmarais

Mathieu Desmarais is the Vice President of Application Engineering at Vention. He boasts 16 years of experience in automation and project delivery. Previously working as Director of Engineering at NuMove Robotique & Vision and Shell-O-Matic Inc., Mathieu excels in coordinating project standards and methods, aligning financial frameworks, and ensuring project synchronization by strategic objectives. With a Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mathieu's leadership and technical prowess drive innovation and success in his current role.​​

Navigating Technology and Process Risk in Industrial Automation​
Join Mathieu Desmarais as he explores the topic "Navigating Technology and Process Risk in Industrial Automation.” Traditionally, the focus has been on integrating automated equipment for optimal performance, but the real challenge is mitigating process risk—the consistent operation of chosen technology amid constant variations. While strides have been made in reducing technology risk, progress in the "process risk frontier" remains limited. Advancements in automating workflows, productizing robotic applications, and plug & play hardware have significantly cut technology risk. However, managing large process variations remains a hurdle. Emerging technologies such as accurate digital twins, skill-based robot programming, touch-sensing for robots, and synthetic training offer hope to improve process risk. Explore how smart automation, coupled with deep process understanding, optimizes operations and reallocates human resources efficiently. Seize the opportunity to gain insights into the future of industrial automation and make informed decisions for project efficiency. ​

Tom Delio

Dr. Delio's serves as president and co-owner of Manufacturing Laboratories, Inc. (MLI) He has worked in machining dynamics for most of his professional career and is instrumental in the development of MLI’s products. He is the author of several academic papers and holds one of the original patents on chatter control. His work continues to emphasize the acceptance and inclusion of machining-dynamics impact on machining productivity, accuracy, and quality.​

Practical Application of Machining Dynamics​
Interest in accounting for, and/or mitigating, the effects of machining dynamics on the machining process has grown in recent years. One approach is “processed-based” and includes the selection of optimal machining parameters (spindle speed, limit depths of cut, etc.). Alternatively, “hardware-based” solutions include special cutting tool designs (specialized or targeted geometry, damped designs, etc.) and machine-tool vibration-control or compensation systems integrated into the machine tool structure or controller. ​

This brief presentation will focus on the process-based approach where the system dynamics are measured and quantified and then utilized to select operational parameters including spindle speed, depths of cut or tool path. Measurement techniques and solution strategies will be explained and summarized. Selected examples will be presented as well as limitations. Class examples are welcome if provided a week prior to the presentation.​

Alan Weeks

Alan runs the day-to-day operations and manages sales. He has been part of the Camtek family since 1998. Alan's extensive background in tool and die was key to driving the best customer support and product experience since Camtek started operations in the USA. Within two years of operations, Alan's team won the “Best in Class” for Customer Support from American Machinist Magazine, based on client feedback.​

Programming Techniques for Wire EDM​
Camtek Optisolutions will be demonstrating their Opticam wire EDM CAD/CAM software. We will be reviewing examples highlighting unique features of the Opticam software that will streamline your wire EDM programming including Feature Recognition, and several wire EDM programming techniques such as Slug Removal Strategies, Pocket Machining, and 4 Axis programming. Camtek Optisolutions will also be demonstrating their Opticam for Solidworks CAD-integrated Wire EDM Programming software.​

Jacob Hall

Jake Hall known as the Manufacturing Millennial is an advocate for automation, and skilled trades and the future worker by helping revolutionize the way people and companies present through social media and adopt new technology. With over 75,000 Followers and 100,000,000+ views on his content, he ignites conversations about the latest in automation and technology to excite the current and future workforce on innovation. ​

The Future of Manufacturing: Technology and Workforce
The industry is changing. Boomers are retiring from the 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, 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.

Andrew Heldt

Andrew is the Director of Software Engineering for Makino. He’s been with Makino since 2013 starting as a Software Engineering on the focusing on data collection with Makino’s MPmax and cell control with Makino’s MAS-A5 software. He then transitioned to the Team Leader for the development of Makino’s predictive analytics software MHmax. In his current role, he works not only with Makino customers in North America, but with the other Makino worldwide companies to guide software development strategies across the globe.

Makino Data Collector
In today’s competitive manufacturing landscape, optimizing production processes is imperative for staying ahead. Harnessing data from your machines offers valuable insights into performance, maintenance, and process improvement opportunities. This presentation dives into Makino’s Data Collector software which enables data collection from your Makino machines. Furthermore, this presentation will highlight case studies and examples from existing Makino customers who have implemented the Data Collector in their shop. Join us as we discuss how the Data Collector can help modernize your machine shop and enable you to make data driven decisions.

Dave Tomic

David has spent 30 years in the manufacturing trade developing and refining these leading indicators into understandable methods.  From his early years as a tool/die maker and mold maker, to various positions in manufacturing management, technical teaching and independent consulting, David has a unique perspective on critical manufacturing related topics.  With these experiences, he has refined what Eden identifies as predictable manufacturing philosophy. ​

Tech Talk
David will highlight the leading indicators he has observed in the manufacturing field which lead to dependable results.  This philosophy emphasizes three key areas: Processes (including technologies and machines), People (incorporating core value systems, training and development), and Practice (consistency, discipline and support).  Through real-world examples, David will illustrate how Predictable Manufacturing enhances efficiency and consistency. Attendees will gain actionable insights into aligning core values with manufacturing principles for sustainable success.

William Howard Jr.

Bill is the Product Line Manager for all Vertical Machining Center products. He has 47 years of machine tool & capital equipment experience – including 31 years with LeBlond Makino & Makino.

He holds Mechanical Engineering degrees from Penn State University and the University of Cincinnati as well as an MBA (Marketing & Economics) from Xavier University.

Bill is an Associate Member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and a Senior Member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME). In addition, he is the author of the book “High – Speed, Hard Milling Solutions” (Hanser Gardner Publications).

The Power of 5-Axis & Automation
5-axis, five-face machining and automation are key driving trends in manufacturing today. Highly competitive manufacturers are striving to improve machine utilization, part quality and productivity to reduce costs and maintain their competitive edge. With the Makino DA300 Package you get the proven 5-axis VMC performance of a DA300 VMC - integrated with a forty-pallet magazine, innovative pallet to table interface and pallet management software.

John Einberger

John is the Product Manager covering our lineup of horizontal machining centers. He has served Makino customers since 1995, in roles ranging from Production Machining Applications Engineer – responsible for executing metal-cutting turnkeys; direct selling of machining center products in his home state of Wisconsin during Makino’s start-up direct sales venture there; management of the Production Machining Proposal Engineering Group back in the Mason headquarters; and most recently as a contributor to Makino’s Marketing Department in his current role.

a500Z Five-Axis Horizontal Machining Center
Join us for an introduction to the versatile a500Z five axis horizontal machining center. The a500Z builds upon the industry leading performance and reliability of our nx-series four-axis HMC’s, adding a factory built and full integrated “Z-type” fourth / fifth axis combination to accommodate today’s more complex part geometry challenges in a minimum number of workholding setups and machining operations.

David Ward

David Ward has a passion for manufacturing and the metal cutting industry. In his 30+ years with Makino, he's been involved with multiple aspects of the machine tool industry. David began working at Makino as an Application Engineer, developing innovative and robust turnkey machining solutions for numerous automotive and aerospace customers. Leveraging this machine and applications experience, he supported production machinery sales as a Regional Sales Manager covering mid-west and mid-Atlantic sales territories. Since 2010, he has been part of Makino's Product Management group, providing engineering, sales and marketing support for Makino's industry leading machining center products.

Small Parts without Compromises
Makino understands that small parts are big business, even if a full day of production only yields a shoe box full of parts. We understand the obstacles small part manufacturers face, including challenging materials like titanium, cobalt chrome and stainless. When considering this type of equipment, buyers often feel like they have to make a choice between going with the larger machine that consumes too much floor space or settling on a small machine that lacks rigidity. These challenges are common in all sectors whether, medical, dental, electronics or aerospace, and can lead to compromise. Compromises like these that can hit your bottom line with reduced productivity and profitability. This Tech Talk event takes you behind the sheet metal look for a look at the Makino N2-5XA, a 5-axis horizontal machining center purpose built for small part production.

Austin Davis

As a Channel Manager for Fusion/RoboJob-USA, Austin Davis strives to improve the throughput and efficiencies of machine shops throughout the North America with the implementation of CNC machine tending automation solutions. Austin has over 12 years of experience in the manufacturing space and with more than 2 years focused on CNC automation alone. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Engineering Management, both from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology.

A Business Case for Automation – Why the Time is Now for CNC Machine Shops
“Automation” has been a hot topic and key word in industrial markets for many years, although the types of solutions and reasons to automate vary greatly from one business and industry to the next. CNC machine shops are starting to feel this same pressure to automate, although the underlying issues may not always be easily understood. With a recent push for the reshoring of manufacturing into the US, new techniques and technologies will need to be implemented for both short-term and long-term success.

In this presentation, we’ll discuss the observations and lessons learned from RoboJob’s 1,700+ installations over the past 16+ years. We will explore the key drivers as noted from the CNC machining world and how the US can learn and adapt from what’s occurred in Western Europe for a reduced learning curve and immediate impact.

Ryan Weekes

Ryan, the President of CGS North America, began his career in a machine shop in 2002 and quickly became a notable figure in manufacturing, especially in the Mold and Die sector. His innovative use of CAM-TOOL CAD/CAM Software to automate programming processes marked a significant leap in productivity and set new industry standards. His entrepreneurial efforts also led to the creation of a specialized manufacturing facility for the oil and gas industry and a major overhaul of a CNC department, introducing efficiency-boosting automated machining cells.

At CGS North America, Ryan is committed to educating customers on the latest trends and advancements, sharing his knowledge at industry events as a respected speaker. His work not only enhances operational efficiency but also sets a benchmark for innovation in manufacturing.

Enhancing Predictive Machining with CAM-TOOL CAD/CAM Software: Insights and Implementations

In the competitive landscape of modern mold shops, the challenge of mitigating labor shortages while enhancing efficiency and precision is paramount. This presentation delves into the transformative impact of CAM-TOOL CAD/CAM Software in addressing these challenges through the lens of predictive machining. Drawing upon the expertise and experiences shared by Dave Tomic of Eden Tool and Manufacturing, a veteran CAM-TOOL user, we will explore the integral features of CAM-TOOL that bolster successful predictive machining strategies.

With the industry's persistent struggle to attract skilled labor, mold shops are increasingly inclined to reduce human intervention in the machining process. A critical objective for these shops is to diminish time spent on labor-intensive operations such as spotting and polishing, alongside minimizing programming time by streamlining manual input from programmers. CAM-TOOL's innovative approach to predictive machining, incorporating tested machining processes into templates, emerges as a potent solution to these challenges. These templates enable programmers to consistently achieve precise tolerances—highlighted by Eden Tool’s routine attainment of 3–5-micron tolerances—through rigorously tested and easily replicable machining processes.

Furthermore, this presentation will underscore CAM-TOOL’s capabilities in stock recognition and engagement, which are essential for consistent tool life and achieving desired tolerances. We will also discuss the software’s superior surface-based tool paths that offer unmatched accuracy and extend tool life, setting CAM-TOOL apart from mesh-based competitors.

As the industry gravitates towards more complex 5-axis machining, the ability of CAM-TOOL to seamlessly transition existing 3-axis templates into simultaneous 5-axis tool paths with a simple click represents a significant leap forward in ensuring uniform outcomes across an organization, regardless of the introduction of new machinery.

Supported by exemplary customer support from CGS North America, CAM-TOOL not only facilitates a smoother transition to advanced machining techniques but also underscores the critical importance of producing reliable parts within stringent tolerances every time. This presentation aims to illuminate the pivotal role of CAM-TOOL CAD/CAM Software in advancing predictive machining, thereby ushering in a new era of efficiency and precision in mold manufacturing.