Back to Events

2026 Plant Leadership Conference & Industry Expo

Wednesday, June 10, 2026
7:30 AM - 6:00 PM (CDT)

* Registration open until 6/8/26 at 9:30 PM (CDT)

Event Details

GBRIA Plant Leadership Conference & Industry Expo

Don’t miss your opportunity to learn about the latest trends in plant leadership and connect with leaders across the industrial manufacturing community at the GBRIA Plant Leadership Conference and Industry Expo.

This high-impact event provides a valuable platform for members to engage, and for contractors and suppliers to showcase innovative products, strengthen relationships, and connect with representatives from GBRIA member facilities.


Opportunities to Participate

We invite you to:

  • Register to attend the conference and gain insight into the latest leadership concepts in industry
  • Reserve a 10'x 8' booth to highlight your company’s products, services, and capabilities
    👉Click Here to see the Expo Map to choose your booth! (Platinum & Gold Annual Partners, please be sure to also select your booth at checkout as well, if you plan to participate)
  • Become a sponsor to maximize your visibility and presence at the event

Attendee Benefits

Participants will receive:

  • Access to conference sessions with the opportunity to earn PDH/CEU credits
  • Complimentary access to the Industry Expo featuring new and innovative products and services
  • Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and networking mixer
  • Opportunities to connect with local industry leaders

Contact Information

For questions regarding the event, please contact:
Brittany Cooper
brittany@gbria.org

Agenda

June 10
7:30 AM - 8:00 AM Registration & Breakfast Check in, enjoy a light breakfast, and begin networking with fellow attendees and exhibitors.
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM Opening Keynote: "Managing Your Personal Brand" Dr. Thomas Karam Dr. Karam, who has coached successful athletes including Shaquille O'Neal, will share insights on nonverbal communication and building your personal brand. 

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Industry Expo Break Visit exhibitor booths, explore innovative products and services, and connect with industry partners.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Breakout Session - Choice of three topics “Leading the Modern Team,” Darylene Pugh, Shell
“Managing your Executive LinkedIn Presence,” Cameron Pivach, Vesel Marketing  
“Human Factors and Operational Performance,” David Wilbur, Vetergy
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Lunch & Executive Panel Enjoy lunch and a panel on leadership in the industrial environment. 
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Breakout Session - Choice of three topics “Leading the Modern Team,” Darylene Pugh, Shell
“Managing your Executive LinkedIn Presence,” Cameron Pivach, Vesel Marketing  
“Human Factors and Operational Performance,” David Wilbur, Vetergy
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM Industry Expo Break Take time to revisit booths, make connections, and explore solutions tailored to your needs.
2:45 PM - 4:00 PM Closing Keynote: Hansell Gill, Director, Michoud Assembly Facility Since being named to the position in April 2024, Director Hansel Gill has overseen one of the world’s largest manufacturing facilities, which provides the crucial infrastructure where elements of NASA’s Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft are assembled. Michoud also provides facilities for non-NASA governmental and commercial technology-based industry tenant operations.
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Networking Mixer Unwind and connect with peers, speakers, and exhibitors in a relaxed networking environment.