Wednesday, October 27, 2027
Resch Expo Center | Green Bay 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Sponsorship Information: sales@insightonbusiness.com
General Event Information: events@insightonbusiness.com
Manufacturing First Expo & Conference
One day. Thousands of connections. Real takeaways for Wisconsin manufacturers. Manufacturing First is Wisconsin’s premier one-day expo and conference designed to bring the manufacturing community together—from executives and engineers to operations, safety, HR, and emerging talent.
Event Information
2026 Keynote Speaker
Phil Gwoke
CEO, BridgeWorks | Writer & Market ResearcherWisconsin native Phil Gwoke opens Manufacturing First with a keynote focused on one of the most consistently cited challenges facing manufacturers in Northeast Wisconsin: leading across generations.
As CEO of BridgeWorks, Gwoke helps organizations better understand not just how generations differ, but why. His work centers on recognizing the strengths each generation brings to the workplace and creating leadership approaches that build trust, clarity, and connection. This keynote is designed to equip leaders with practical tools for navigating diverse teams spanning Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z — while reinforcing the value of every generational perspective.
“You’re going to feel proud to be part of your generation, whatever it is. It’s practical, it’s insightful, and you’re going to laugh. It will be fun.” — Phil Gwoke
2026 Breakout Tracks
After the keynote, attendees can choose from breakout sessions offering focused, practical insights in smaller settings. New this year, sessions are organized into themed tracks to help attendees navigate by interest while encouraging cross-topic exploration. Breakouts run alongside the Exhibit Hall, giving attendees and exhibitors ongoing opportunities for learning, networking, and discovery. Titles and speakers will be announced as confirmed.
Business Growth & Strategy presented by Stoke RGA
The Growth Engine Framework: From Campaign Chaos to Revenue Engine
Breakout Session Two: 11:15 a.m.
TRACK SPONSOR Panel Discussion: Stalled Growth – Why the Fix Is Never Just Sales
Breakout Session One: 10 a.m.
Business Transition Planning: Various Transition Options and How to Choose the Right One
Breakout Session Three: 1:30 p.m.
People & Culture
Fundamentals of the Future:
Where Technology Meets Workforce
Breakout Session One: 10 a.m.
The People Problem No One Talks About:
Why Your Best Hires Aren’t Always on Paper
Breakout Session Two: 11:15 a.m.
Psychological Safety:
Beyond the PPE
Breakout Session Three: 1:30 p.m.
Safety, Risk & Compliance presented by Acuity Insurance
TRACK SPONSOR Investing in Robotics
to Improve Safety
Breakout Session One: 10 a.m.
Protecting What You’ve Built:
Understanding Everyday Legal Risks
for Manufacturers
Breakout Session Two: 11:15 a.m.
Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, Good Human Work, Anovia Health, OSMS
The First 7 Days After Injury:
Where Work Comp Claims Are Won or Lost
Breakout Session Three: 1:30 p.m.
Talent & Development
Strengthening Safety Across Your Workforce: Practical Strategies for Today’s
Manufacturing Environment
Breakout Session One: 10 a.m.
Building Tomorrow’s Manufacturing Leaders: Developing Supervisors for
Growth and Retention
Breakout Session Two: 11:15 a.m.
The Connected Plant Floor
Breakout Session Three: 1:30 p.m.
Technology & Innovation presented by Bank of America
NFPA 70B and Electrical
Preventable Maintenance
Breakout Session One: 10 a.m.
Scaling AI in Manufacturing: A Practical Maturity Model Approach
Breakout Session Two: 11:15 a.m.
TRACK SPONSOR
The Business Case for Automation:
From Investment to Impact
Breakout Session Three: 1:30 p.m.
2026 Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
In Partnership With
Keynote Sponsors
Track Sponsors
Education Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Power-Up Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
VIP Lounge Sponsor
Lanyard Sponsor
Bronze Sponsors
Business After Hour Sponsors
Photography Sponsor
Sponsorship Information
Sponsorship is the highest-impact way to align your brand with Wisconsin manufacturing. Beyond a single day of visibility, sponsors gain year-round exposure, thought leadership platforms, and direct access to the executives, decision-makers, and emerging talent shaping the region’s industry.
Sponsor benefits (vary by level):
- Pre-event promotion via email, social, direct mail, and Insight on Business
- On-site recognition through signage, programs, stage mentions, and booths
- Speaking opportunities, including keynote introductions and breakout sessions
- Print ads in Insight on Business and the event program
Year-round logo placement on manufacturingfirst.com
Sponsors also help strengthen Northeast Wisconsin’s manufacturing community, support workforce development, and elevate the future of manufacturing in the region.
Click here for more detailed information on sponsorship opportunities or contact sales@insightonbusiness.com.
Exhibitor Information
Manufacturing First is built for real conversations, not quick handoffs. Meet face-to-face with buyers actively seeking solutions across manufacturing, automation, safety, workforce, and technology, with dedicated time in the schedule for discussions, reconnection, and new lead generation.
What sets this expo apart:
- Curated, manufacturing-focused audience (networking is the #1 attendee-rated benefit)
- Dedicated time for exhibitor interaction and candid, comfortable conversations
- First-come, first-served booth placement with sponsor and member priority
Exhibit benefits:
- Affordable booths starting at $950
- Package includes table, chairs, Wi-Fi, and event program recognition
- Optional upgrades for electricity, monitors, and enhanced displays
- Attendee list access for follow-up (with sponsorships)
Digital Editions
Photo Gallery
FAQ
When is the Manufacturing First event?
The Manufacturing First event will take place on Wednesday, October 27th.
What is Manufacturing First?
Manufacturing First is Wisconsin’s largest manufacturing networking and business event, brought together 1,333 attendees and 225 exhibitors in 2026.
Who attends Manufacturing First?
Common attendee roles include:
- CEOs, Presidents & Owners
- Vice Presidents & Directors
- Plant & Operations Managers
- Production & Engineering Leaders
- HR & Talent Acquisition Professionals
- Business Development & Sales Professionals
What industries are represented?
Strong representation from organizations that serve the manufacturing sector, including:
- Manufacturing
- Engineering & Automation
- Construction & Industrial Services
- Banking & Financial Services
- Insurance & Risk Management
- Education & Workforce Development
- Technology & Consulting
What do attendees say about Manufacturing First?
Post-event survey results consistently highlight the value of the event. Attendees shared that:
- Networking is the #1 reason they attend.
- The quality of manufacturers, customers, and exhibitors creates valuable business connections.
- The event is professional, well-organized, and collaborative.
- The Expo Hall is an excellent place to discover new products, services, suppliers, and industry solutions.
- Educational sessions covering AI, technology, leadership, and safety provide practical takeaways.
- Many attendees consider Manufacturing First a must-attend annual event and plan to return each year.