Len Reo
Speaker at SOUTHEAST: Len Reo, President, The Attivo Group
Speaker at SOUTHEAST: Len Reo, President, The Attivo Group
Speaker at SOUTHEAST: Jordan Walker, Sr Applications Engineer, Hawk Ridge Systems
SOUTHEAST Session: Automation is transforming manufacturing, making it essential for companies to adopt and scale these technologies effectively. As industry trends favor smarter, flexible systems, understanding how to start and grow an automation journey is vital for competitiveness, efficiency, and growth. Many organizations face challenges in strategic planning, technology selection, and implementation. This presentation offers practical guidance on developing aligned strategies, avoiding common pitfalls, and partnering effectively to ensure long-term success. Staying informed and prepared in this evolving landscape is crucial for both new and existing users to unlock automation’s full potential.
SOUTHEAST Session: Many small and medium-sized manufacturers feel overwhelmed by the hype around artificial intelligence yet struggle to see where to begin without significant disruption or cost. This talk will present a practical, proven framework that helps owners, operators, and engineering managers adopt AI in a step-by-step approach. Real case studies will be shared, including a sales order entry automation initiative that reduced manual effort by 60% through the use of a third-party AI solution, allowing employees to focus on higher-value customer service and informed decision-making. Attendees will gain a clear roadmap to identify high-impact opportunities, pilot small projects, and scale AI solutions that deliver measurable ROI and strengthen long-term competitiveness. This session provides actionable strategies and dispels common myths, demonstrating that digital transformation does not have to be complex or out of reach for smaller manufacturers ready to take the first step.
Speaker at SOUTHEAST: Nand Shivkumar, Chief Innovation Officer, Mastercam
SOUTHEAST Session: Manufacturing leaders face unprecedented cybersecurity challenges as technology accelerates. This session provides a clear view of the current cybersecurity landscape, practical strategies to build visibility, strengthen IT reliability, and safeguard against emerging risks like Shadow AI. Cybersecurity expert Ryan Benson will cut through the myths of AI, highlight governance as a critical defense, and outline the key actions you should prioritize today to help you navigate cybersecurity.
SOUTHEAST Session:
Speaker at SOUTHEAST: Rob Longfellow, CTO, Juxtum
SOUTHEAST Session:
SOUTHEAST Session: This session will be held on Tuesday, October 21st from 10:00am-Noon and will begin with a keynote focused on Michelin North America’s workforce development strategies including the company’s unique Talent Campus program. The keynote will be followed by a panel discussion with workforce development leaders from the state of South Carolina, the South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (SCMEP), and Industrial Motor Service, Inc.