ABI's Iowa Manufacturing Conference to Bring Together Industry Leaders

DES MOINES, Iowa - The Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) will host its annual Iowa Manufacturing Conference on October 14, 2025, at Prairie Meadows in Altoona. The one-day conference will feature an impactiful keynote speaker, a panel of Iowa business leaders, and expert-led workshops all focused on the opportunities and challenges facing manufacturers today.

The annual CEO survey published by ABI this summer informed the topics that attendees will learn about while attending the event. From navigating uncertainty and embracing emerging technologies to workforce strategies and global market trends, attendees will gain practical insights to strengthen their businesses and prepare for the future.

Keynote speaker, Eric Termuende, is a best-selling author and internationally recognized thought leader on the future of work, leadership, and workplace culture. His insights have inspired leading companies like Amazon, Coca-Cola, IBM and John Deere, and his work has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, and Inc.

In addition to Eric's keynote, attendees will hear from a panel of Iowa business leaders featuring Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority, as moderator. Panelists include Nate Weaton, President and CEO of Weaton Companies (Fairfield); Megan Weiler Green, CFO of Weiler (Knoxville); and Connor Deering, CEO of Cemen Tech, Inc (Indianola). This engaging discussion will cover pressing issues in manufacturing, including taxes, international trade, automation, and workforce challenges.

"The manufacturing industry in Iowa ranks third when it comes to number of employees per capita," said Nicole Crain, ABI President. "Manufacturers know the importance of learning from one another and focusing on workplace culture and the future of work. That is why this conference is focused on bringing together leaders from across the state to exchange ideas, tackle challenges and shape the future of manufacturing in Iowa."

Attendees will have the chance to network with peers and honor Legends in Iowa manufacturing. The Legends awards ceremony is in partnership with the ABI Foundation's Elevate Iowa Manufacturing initiative, which seeks to educate Iowans about careers in manufacturing.

For registration and a detailed agenda, visit www.iowaabi.org/abimfg.

Media inquiries and pre-event interviews are encouraged. Media is also welcome to attend the event.