6th Annual Manufacturers’ Summit Scheduled For Feb. 3

MORENO VALLEY>> The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire is hosting its 6th annual Manufacturers’ Summit on Feb. 3, 2017 at the Ontario Convention Center from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. The annual event, designed to promote the industry’s latest technology, trends and ideas, is considered the largest of its kind in the region with an attendance rate of 500 - 700 people. WD-40 Company President Garry Ridge is the scheduled keynote speaker, and California Manufacturers & Technology Association President Dorothy Rothrock will lead a panel discussion on the Technological and Political Future of Manufacturing. Cyber security risks and the impact of robotics on manufacturing will be explored during Micro-burst sessions by GuardSight CEO John McGloughlin and Scott Melton of FANUC America, respectively. “There is no better place to learn what local manufacturers think about state policies and regulations,” Rothrock said. “It helps me do a better job in Sacramento to improve the business climate, and is a ‘must attend’ for me and my team each year.” The Manufacturer’s Innovation Awards will highlight three top manufacturers who will discuss innovations within their companies. Past winners including Celestica and Newport Cottages. “One of the most interesting and popular exhibits, the 'Made in the Inland Empire' displays, will again be presented,” said Summit Chair Deborah Smith. “Last year we had about 30 manufacturers who brought in locally made products to show them off.” Manufacturers who attended and displayed included Microdyne Plastics, Garner Holt Productions, Cott Beverages, Phenix Technology and Safariland. The popular large exhibit area will provide the opportunity for attendees to speak with a variety of vendors who support manufacturing. Past exhibitors include Brithinee Electric, the largest electrical motor rewinding plant in the southwest, and manufacturer of electric motor controls; Cott Beverages, an international manufacturer and one of the largest beverage producers; and California Steel Industries, an international steel producer located in Fontana. For more information about the annual Manufacturers’ Summit, please visit www.mfgcouncilie.com. The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire, a 501(c)3 non-profit, supports and provides education to manufacturers, their employees, students looking for jobs in manufacturing and the community at large. The annual Summits are designed to provide informational take-away on business trends and issues in the region and state. It brings together manufacturers, supporting businesses, regional colleges and universities and agencies.