PRESENTATION: Empowering The Front Lines; Leadership, Ownership, and AI in Manufacturing In today's fast-paced manufacturing environment, success hinges on more than just cutting-edge technology or streamlined processes. True leadership involves empowering your front-line employees by pushing ownership down to the teams who are closet to the action. Through real-world stories, Dave will explore practical ways leaders can help team members reach their full potential by creating a sense of ownership, encouraging responsibility, offering growth opportunities, and equipping them with the AI tools they need to succeed. PERSONAL BIO: David Kapic is a seasoned leader with over three decades of experience in the manufacturing industry, particularly in the food sector. Originally from Northern California, David has lived across the U.S. but has called Wisconsin home for over 26 years, where he and his family have deeply rooted themselves. Throughout his career, David has led the production of various products—ranging from fruit snacks and cereal to cheese, yogurt, brats, and pet food. He has held influential positions at industry giants such as General Mills, Schreiber Foods, Johnsonville, and Stella & Chewy’s, taking on roles like Senior Vice President, Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, President, and Board Director. Despite his executive titles, David has always remained focused on what he considers the backbone of any organization—the frontline workers. In his most recent move, David joined Weavix, a tech start-up that develops “smart radios” for frontline employees, as Chief Operating Officer. Having witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of this technology on company culture during his time at Stella & Chewy’s, David is now driven to bring these innovative tools to more companies in the manufacturing sector. David and his wife Jennifer reside in Newton, Wisconsin, and are proud parents to four adult children: Christopher, Bridget, William, and Gretchen. A passionate Packers shareholder, David shares a friendly rivalry with Jennifer, who is a Vikings fan having grown up in Minnesota.

Jake Hall is the Manufacturing Millennial. He talks about the latest technology in the automation and manufacturing while making it engaging for all audiences. He is an experienced sales professional with extensive knowledge building lasting business relationships across multiple accounts, designing sales strategies, and creating and accomplishing project goals. Proficiency in creating new business opportunities with existing and new accounts by leveraging key strengths and maintain customer relationships. Jake graduated from Grand Valley State University with his bachelor’s in Product Design and Manufacturing Engineering and a minor in Biomedical Engineering. He worked during college in the automation, furniture and product design industries as well as starting a company after receiving investments and winning business and pitch competitions.