Morgan Conque
Speaker at SOUTHWEST: Morgan Conque, Vice President of GTM Strategy, Ashling
Speaker at SOUTHWEST: Morgan Conque, Vice President of GTM Strategy, Ashling
Speaker at SOUTHWEST: Michael Crismon, SL MFG Sales Engineer, Epicor
SOUTHWEST Session: Modern Swiss machining continues to evolve through advanced software that combines digital twin technology with AI-driven automation. This presentation explores how the latest tools in ESPRIT EDGE are transforming how complex, multi-axis kinematic machines are programmed - enhancing precision, adaptability, and overall efficiency - while also empowering the workforce with intuitive, intelligent solutions that simplify complexity, support upskilling, and help manufacturers attract and retain skilled talent in an evolving industry. Key Points: • Intelligent digital twin • Comprehensive setups • Simplified programming • Accurate simulation and G-code output
SOUTHWEST Session:
Speaker at SOUTHWEST: Matt Redden, Technical Specialist, Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence
SOUTHWEST Session: Transitioning from prototyping to serial production is the defining challenge in additive manufacturing today. This presentation by Farsoon Technologies Americas will demonstrate a clear pathway to achieving high-volume, cost-effective manufacturing using truly open and integrated 3D printing solutions. We will explore real-world success stories across key industries, including the production of civil aerospace components, high-performance shoe molds, Intricate 3C products, electronic motorcycle parts, athletic and sporting goods, and medical implants. These case studies will reveal how our open-system approach provides the flexibility and material choice necessary for serial production. The session will then delve into the specific technology innovations that make this possible. We will showcase how Beam Shaping optimizes material and processing capabilities, while the Support Reduction System (SRS) slashes post-processing time and material waste. Attendees will learn how fine laser spot printing achieves ultra-fine 0.05mm details for intricate parts, and how large-layer thickness printing drastically improves efficiency for less critical dimensions. We will also highlight specialized solutions like Auto-Grafting Technology for superior mold production. Join us to discover how the latest advancements 3D printing technology are delivering great ROI by reducing total manufacturing costs and unlocking the full potential of volume AM production.
Speaker at SOUTHWEST: Bradd Rodenroth, Vice President of Sales, NEXGEN Tooling LLC
Speaker at SOUTHWEST: Ben Allen, Chief Executive Officer, Manufacturing ROI, LLC
SOUTHWEST Session: Most manufacturers begin their AI journey with high expectations, yet research shows that 95 percent of GenAI projects fail to create real business value. A common trap is the shiny object syndrome, where leaders and empowered employees chase trendy tools that look impressive but do little to address core operational challenges. This is why only 5 percent of enterprise-built AI tools ever make it into production. The companies that succeed take a different path. They delve into the business itself, uncovering where AI can make the most significant difference. Predictive maintenance that prevents costly downtime, quality control that reduces waste, and supply chain optimization that improves resilience are just a few areas where measurable impact becomes possible. What often separates success from failure is expertise. Internal teams, no matter how skilled, can be limited by organizational bias, resource gaps, and familiar ways of thinking. That is why internal builds succeed only a third of the time. Third-party AI experts, on the other hand, bring fresh perspectives that identify blind spots, challenge assumptions, and apply proven frameworks that raise the success rate to nearly 70 percent. With the proper guidance, AI stops being an expensive experiment and becomes a powerful, revenue-generating asset. For manufacturers, this shift marks the difference between falling behind and building a sustainable competitive edge.
SOUTHWEST Session: QuickBooks is one of the most widely used accounting platforms in manufacturing but it’s also one of the most overlooked compliance risks. In The QuickBooks Compliance Crisis, Justice IT Consulting reveals how one AS9100-certified machine shop nearly lost its Lockheed Martin contract after a simple QuickBooks setup violated CMMC and DFARS cybersecurity requirements. This presentation shows how the manufacturer turned a near-disaster into a success story using a proven seven-step strategy to isolate QuickBooks from CUI systems, apply multi-factor authentication, document data policies, and update their System Security Plan resulting in a 110 SPRS score and zero workflow disruption. Attendees will discover how to identify compliance pitfalls in everyday business tools, safeguard critical data without replacing core software, and build a defensible cybersecurity posture. Learn how to keep your QuickBooks and your contracts: compliant, secure, and audit-ready.