There are a lot of exciting things happening within the walls of Iowa manufacturers, and we heard some expert insight from a few key leaders who are in the midst of changes that will shape the industry in the years ahead. 

On Thursday afternoon the Business Record hosted its latest Newsroom 515 event at the Depot, featuring a panel discussion on the future of manufacturing in Iowa. Among the highlights of the discussion were insights on global trade, the impact of artificial intelligence and automation on the industry, and best practices for recruiting top talent by manufacturing companies in Iowa. 

About 50 Business Record members participated in the discussion. Business Record Publisher Chris Conetzkey and I moderated. The panel of experts consisted of: 

• Bill Adamowski, president, Iowa Startup Factory.
• Robin Anderson, senior global economist, Principal Financial Group.
• Kelli Gallagher, CEO, DeeZee Manufacturing.
• Mike Ralston, president, Iowa Association of Business and Industry.
• Dave Zrostlik, president, Stellar Industries.

Key takeaways and exclusive insights from the event will be summarized in a special manufacturing publication that will be unveiled Oct. 1 — Made in Iowa — which we’re producing in collaboration with Iowa ABI. 

Meanwhile, here’s a Facebook Live video clip from Thursday’s event.