2024 Conference Programme

Welcome cocktail reception

Join industry leaders, experts, colleagues, and peers for an enjoyable evening of networking and camaraderie at the welcome drinks reception, located at the The Henry Hotel, Dearborn, MI.

Dress code - Business casual.

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Conference welcome and keynote

Shaping North American manufacturing towards a lean, sustainable, and flexible future.

Conference open for registration, networking and refreshments

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Session: Factory transformation and automation 

Understand how OEMs and suppliers are redesigning factories to leverage new technology and future-proof manufacturing. Experts will explore layout, tooling, and cultural changes, incorporating advanced robotics, flexible automation and AI across production processes.

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Session: Strategies for successfully developing lean as automotive production transforms 

Gain insights from industry experts on implementing lean manufacturing amidst disruptions. Learn about integrating AI and digitalisation into lean systems, enhancing flexibility, reducing costs, and adopting new technologies. Understand how OEMs, suppliers, and service providers can collaborate for shared success through lean principles.

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Networking break

Connect with old and new acquaintances to talk about all things manufacturing.

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Session: EV and battery integration   

Navigate the electrified future by adapting production lines for electric vehicles and powertrains. In this session experts will dive into the intricacies of battery pack and module production, and discuss system, data and crucial supplier relationships.

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Session: Manufacturing flexibility

In an age of uncertainty, understand how automotive manufacturers are adapting plants and processes for ever greater flexibility. Hear about the incorporation of AGVs, cobots and connected technologies to upgrade production lines for unparalleled flexibility across powertrain and vehicle types.

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Lunch and networking

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Session: Sustainable manufacturing practices

Understand the path toward sustainability through new vehicle architectures and materials, energy reduction, circular economy practices and more. Experts will discuss the responsible usage of materials and mixed materials in shaping an eco-friendlier manufacturing landscape.

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Session: Smart factory roadmaps: setting the right systems, security, and talent  

 Explore strategies for advancing smart factories in North America. Join manufacturing and IT leaders as they discuss enhancing IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and system management to boost productivity and reduce downtime. Learn about developing common architectures, investing in automation, and cultivating the right talent to ensure flexible and safe operations with new technologies.

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Networking break

Connect with old and new acquaintances to talk about all things manufacturing.

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Session: Optimising maintenance for production equipment

Learn how to elevate operational efficiency through advanced, digital maintenance strategies for production equipment. Understand how manufacturers are embracing predictive maintenance to minimize downtime and maximize productivity.

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Session: Using data to transform manufacturing engineering and operations

Uncover how cloud technology, IIoT, digital twins, and AR/VR are transforming manufacturing. Learn how predictive maintenance, quality monitoring, and digital tools reduce costs, improve quality, and streamline operations in automotive production.

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Session: Collaboration and partnership

AMS Evolution ends with discussion on how to move the industry forward through strategic collaboration. Explore successful case studies, understand changing OEM-supplier partnerships, and understand how cross-functional collaboration will drive efficiency, sustainability and flexibility in manufacturing.

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AMS North America closing drinks and networking

Participants can unwind, share insights, and build lasting connections during the closing drinks and networking session.