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Manufacturing Excellence Forum - Oshawa
Discover, connect, and innovate at EMC’s Manufacturing Excellence Forum—a gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers from across Canada’s manufacturing sector.
Whether you’re seeking solutions to workforce challenges, exploring emerging technologies, or looking to grow your manufacturing network, this event is your opportunity to engage directly with thought leaders and industry peers shaping the future of Canadian manufacturing.
8:00 – Networking Breakfast
8:30 – Opening Remarks
8:45 – Tariffs, Trade and Advancing Manufacturing in Canada, Scott McNeil-Smith, EMC
Global trade dynamics, shifting tariff regimes, and evolving supply chain realities continue to shape the competitive landscape for Canadian manufacturers. As 2026 approaches, the sector faces both turbulence and opportunity — from cost pressures and cross-border policy shifts to accelerating clean technology and digital transformation.
In this session, we will explore how Canadian manufacturers are positioning themselves for advantage amid uncertainty. Drawing from EMC’s national intelligence – including the 2026 Advanced Manufacturing Outlook Report, the 2025 Green Manufacturing and CleanTech Adoption report, and insights from EMC’s Trade & Supply Chain initiatives – this presentation will help connect the dots between strategy, performance, and practical action.
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how global trends are influencing Canada’s manufacturing competitiveness, what leading firms are doing to adapt, and how Saskatchewan manufacturers and processors can leverage EMC’s programs, benchmarking, and networks, to support their growth and resilience.
9:45 – Proactive Health and Safety Leadership with Kelly Killby, EMC’s Health, Safety and Environment Professional – A session on cultivating a proactive safety culture. Topics include the latest from the WSIB, health and safety regulations, hazard mitigation strategies, and how leadership engagement drives long-term workplace well-being.
10:30 – Business Transition & Succession Planning, Presentation by BDC
Join us for an insightful and interactive workshop designed to empower business owners as they navigate the critical journey of succession and exit planning. Whether you’re considering transitioning your business to a family member, key employees, or external buyers, this session will help you lay the groundwork for a successful and value-driven transition.
Led by Devesh Dwivedi, a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), this workshop will feature peer-to-peer networking and practical guidance rooted in real-world research and proven strategies. You’ll gain clarity on how to maximize your company’s value, secure its long-term prosperity, and prepare for a future transition with confidence
11:15 – Navigating the Legal Landscape in Manufacturing, by Hicks Morely
Representatives from Hicks Morley will share insights into current legal issues affecting manufacturers, covering emerging trends in employment law, policy development, and best practices for compliance. Attendees will gain an understanding of how to reduce risk and maintain fair, legally sound workplaces. There will be an open Q&A.
12:00 – Networking Lunch
12:30 – AI in Action: Data-Driven Manufacturing by the Data Integrators
The Data Integrators (TDI) team investigates how artificial intelligence is transforming operations and decision-making in manufacturing. Attendees will gain a practical understanding of where AI can provide measurable productivity improvements.
Manufacturing Excellence Forum - Oshawa
Hosted by Steve Holmgren, MCM.
