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Advancements Conference: What's On the Agenda?
- maggie0374
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
SPESA Speaks
This year’s SPESA Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Conference focuses on AI, Automation, Accessibility, and Beyond.
See below to see what we have in store!
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
You can’t have a technology discussion in 2026, without including AI. We will be breaking the topic down into two critical functions for sewn products manufacturers:
AI from your desk: Taking a look at tools and resources that can be utilized to streamline and improve administrative functions like drafting emails and marketing; sales force; employee retention and empowerment; logistics, and more.
AI from the factory floor: Learn more about AI applications to improve efficiency, sustainability, and profitability in manufacturing operations. Examples include AI tools for pattern making; software for sourcing raw materials and suppliers; and vision systems used to see your workflow, identify defects, and maximize quality control.
AUTOMATION
Speakers in Columbus hope to provide attendees with “a roadmap for the future” when it comes to building automation into your manufacturing processes. We will discuss the physical tools that can be integrated to maximize the potential of your workforce and operations, focusing on robotics, NextGen process technology, and lean manufacturing.
ACCESSIBILITY
For those companies maybe just starting out on their technology journey as well as those looking to grow, we are excited to include a discussion on scalability and accessibility for small businesses and young entrepreneurs.
BEYOND
One of SPESA’s biggest pet peeves is when our industry discussions accidentally get too focused on sewing and apparel. “Sewn products” might be in our name, but we all know that the industry now includes so much more! So, we are putting in extra effort this year to look “beyond” what we already know.
Beyond Sewing: We will discuss innovations and technologies created for the factory floor that don’t include sewing machines such as digital adhesives for bonding and robotic material handling systems.
Beyond Apparel: We hope to bring in local voices from non-apparel sectors like footwear and aerospace to share insights from across the industry.
Beyond Traditional Manufacturing: Looking at ways that U.S. manufacturing can be most efficient, we will dive into the possibilities of replenishment manufacturing in the Midwest region.
One of SPESA's keystone events, the annual SPESA Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies is designed specifically for manufacturers, brands, retailers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders to learn about new innovations and advancements in manufacturing sewn products.
