The Iowa Association of Business and Industry will host its Iowa Manufacturing Conference on Oct. 2 in Ankeny. The sessions will explore top issues for manufacturers, including innovative workforce solutions, retaining diverse talent, and risk management, according to a news release. Speakers include Jack Shaw, who will speak about artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, as well as Atlantic Bottling Co.’s board chair Kirk Tyler and President and CEO Rob Feeney. The day will conclude with local, optional tours of Accumold, Kreg Tool and Housby. ABI and Elevate Advanced Manufacturing will also recognize the 2024 Legends in Manufacturing during the event. This year’s award recipients are:

• Under 100 employees: Hernan Etcheto, Nutriom (Panora)
• 100-300 employees: Gary Sharp, Advanced Heat Treat Corp. (Waterloo)
• 300-plus employees: John Lisle, Lisle Corp. and EZ Way Inc. (Clarinda)
• Posthumous: Jim Tyler, Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Co.

A list of past recipients is available here. To view the full agenda for the conference and register, visit the event page.