Industry Innovation Forum

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Location: Embassy Suites, 1140 E Angela Boulevard

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Save the date for an afternoon of sessions with industry guest speakers as they share their experiences and vast knowledge on change and growth through innovation.


2:00pm - 3:15pm
Camping Reimagined: Innovation, Technology and Trends in Outdoor Hospitality

Join Toby O'Rourke, president and CEO of Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA), to learn how KOA is using innovation and technology to meet the needs of the next generation of campers. KOA, a leader in outdoor hospitality and champion for industry modernization, is the world's largest branded system of campgrounds and has over 500 franchised and company owned locations across North America. KOA recently launched Terramor Outdoor Resorts, a glamping venture with a flagship property in Maine.

Speaker:

  • Toby O’Rourke, President & CEO of Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA)


3:30pm - 4:30pm
Innovate to Elevate: Using Cutting-Edge Design and Manufacturing to Enhance the Customer Experience

In this session, you’ll learn how companies are leveraging modernized design principles, technology, marketing, and advanced manufacturing processes to diversify their products and enhance the customer experience. You'll leave this session with a deeper understanding of the ways in which companies are embracing change and driving growth through innovation.

Speakers:

  • McKay Featherstone, Senior Vice President of Global Innovation, Thor Industries
  • Len Morris, Founder and CEO, Viewrail
  • Nathan Scherer, Director of Innovation, Patrick Industries
  • Mike Vasquez, Founder and CEO, 3Degrees
  • Moderated by: Nick Berente, Professor of IT, Analytics, and Operations, University of Notre Dame Mendoza College of Business


4:45pm - 5:45pm
Leading the Way: A Conversation on Indiana's Evolving Industry and Manufacturing Landscape

With its central location, strong workforce, and thriving business environment, Indiana has long been a hub for manufacturing and industry. During this session, Indiana Secretary of Commerce Bradley Chambers and President and CEO of Conexus Indiana Fredrick Cartwright will provide their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing Indiana's manufacturing sector. Whether you are a business leader, policy maker, or industry professional, this session will provide valuable insights into the future of industry and manufacturing in Indiana.

Speakers:

  • Bradley Chambers; Secretary of Commerce; State of Indiana
  • Frederick Cartwright; President and CEO ; Conexus Indiana


The Industry Innovation Forum sessions are hosted by Notre Dame’s iNDustry Labs and the South Bend-Elkhart Regional Partnership. Learn more and register at ideaweek.com/events