Manufacturing Conference
Driving Impact for Manufacturers 2026 (DIFM26)
Erie, Pa
Bayfront Convention Center Erie PA
March 25, 2026
8:30am-6:00pm
Tickets
Manufacturers – $100
Non-Manufacturers – $150
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-5Hours
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NWIRC presents Driving Impact for Manufacturers (DIFM26), our 2nd annual manufacturing conference. At last year’s conference, the high-impact keynote; immersive business simulation; and interactive small-group breakout sessions proved that when manufacturers, workforce leaders, and economic development partners come together, transformation happens.
For 2026, we’re building on that momentum. You’ll find sessions that go beyond the buzzwords — tackling real challenges like leadership, retention, onboarding, operational excellence, and AI. And, you’ll connect with peers who are navigating the same pressures and possibilities you are.
Whether you’re scaling up, rethinking strategy, or investing in your team, DIFM26 is your space to recharge, rethink, and retool.
Keynote Speaker: Garrison Wynn
In top performing organizations, great leadership isn’t optional…it’s contagious. This high-energy, research-based keynote blends humor (the funny kind) with proven tactics to help leaders communicate clearly, build trust quickly, and create a culture that sticks. Garrison Wynn shows how to reduce resistance to change, engage every generation, and attract the people you need now. Because culture isn’t what you believe or post on the wall, it’s what people feel at work. Expect practical tools, real-world insight, and a contagious spark that makes change easier, stress lower, and leadership more influential than ever.
Garrison Wynn fuses comic timing and research to deliver motivational business expertise. For 30 years he has presented on five continents, to clients (such as Amazon, Caterpillar, US Steel Corp, Lockheed Martin, Sanofi, the NFL, and NASA) at corporate and association events. He is also an Amazon #1 bestselling author who has been featured in Forbes and Inc. Magazines. He became the youngest department head in a Fortune 500 company’s history where he researched and designed processes for 38 company locations nationwide and developed & marketed products still being sold in 30 countries.
Bookings
Bookings are closed for this event.