Recognized as one of the Top 50 most influential thought leaders in Industry 4.0 (Coming in at rank #1) as part of Onalytica's "Who's who in Industry 4.0 in 2023" report, Jeff Winter possesses a unique ability to bridge the gap between business strategy, industry trends, technology implementation, and change management.

As the Industry strategy leader for manufacturing for Hitachi Solutions, and Smart Manufacturing Advisor at CESMII, Jeff is known to help drive customer success through deep industry knowledge and technical expertise. He will soon be leading a panel on Generative AI: Strategies for Scaling Adoption across the Enterprise at our Connected Worker Summit in Chicago, from 13-15 November.

Watch as he shares thought leadership ideas and insights into the evolution of Industry 4.0 and how organizations can effectively strategize and scale the adoption of Generative AI.

The technology landscape is ever evolving, ushering significant changes for the Connected Worker across varying industries and organizations. With the availability of generative AI and numerous software solutions the industry now has at their disposal, implementation can be challenging, especially across large enterprises like Duravant.

Having acquired multiple companies and businesses over a span of 10+ years, Duravant has established itself as a leader in the industry and the manufacturing sector. However, implementing a Connected Worker program across a diverse pool of companies and cultures poses its unique set of challenges and obstacles. Something as simple as harmonizing Microsoft Teams and looking up employees in an “Address Book” across the enterprise poses complexities.

In this interview with Patrick Quint, Chief Information Officer at Duravant, we explore how the company is navigating and leveraging technology to improve their Connected Worker program, and how they are actively integrating diverse operations and acquisitions into their enterprise to enhance collaboration and efficiency.

Advancements in digital technology offer radically new ways of working that can improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and optimize manufacturing operations. However, the adoption of technology comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest challenges facing the manufacturing industry is a labor shortage.

A recent study by Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute, found that up to 2.1 million US manufacturing jobs could go unfilled by 2030, costing the economy a whopping $1 trillion dollars annually. Part of the problem is a skills mismatch. On one hand, manufacturing workers are losing jobs to automation, even as manufacturers find it tough to hire enough people to do the work they need doing.

That’s why manufacturing organizations need to do more to upskill their existing workforce, argues Hao Dinh, Vice President of Technology at Enpro Industries.

In this interview, we spoke with him about the various challenges facing digital upskilling and the Connected Worker, and what industry leaders must consider when driving digital transformation initiatives. His advice on how to digitally upskill your existing workforce offers promising insights and solutions.

The 4th Annual Connected Worker: Manufacturing Summit returns to the Hilton Chicago - Oak Brook Hills Resort on October 14–16—and with it, a unique opportunity to place your brand at the center of crucial conversations.

Hear from industry leaders at FUJIFILM, ADM, Mondelez International, Bimbo Bakeries USA, The Hershey Company, Kraft Heinz, Cooper Standard, and many more as they share how they are advancing the next frontier of digital manufacturing.

The 2025 Event Guide offers a comprehensive look at what’s in store—featuring 75+ expert speakers, keynote headliners, and brand-new session formats. You’ll also find details on the exclusive MxD Site Tour, and a showcase of the technologies and organizations shaping the future of connected work. From transformative workforce solutions to cutting-edge shop floor tech, this year’s summit provides an unparalleled platform for technology providers, solution partners, and innovators to connect with manufacturing’s most forward-thinking brands.

Spot a session that you’d like to get involved with? Get in touch today to lead the conversation in Chicago this fall.

Wondering who attended our most recent Connected Worker: Manufacturing Summit? Download the sample attendee list for a glimpse of who could be joining you on October 14-16 in Chicago. 

Our attendees are decision-makers, innovators, and experts responsible for optimizing operations, enhancing workforce efficiency, and driving digital transformation.

They come from leading manufacturing companies, looking for solutions to pressing challenges such as:

• Moving from connected worker to connected workforce – Scaling digital solutions beyond individual workers to create a fully integrated and collaborative environment.
• Reducing risk in hazardous conditions – Leveraging connected safety management to enhance workplace safety and minimize operational risks.
• Improving efficiencies and consistency – Utilizing remote operations to streamline workflows and ensure standardized processes across manufacturing sites.
• Enhancing maintenance and inspections – Implementing connected worker technology to optimize asset reliability and reduce downtime.

As a sponsor of The Connected Worker: Manufacturing Summit, you'll take center stage—leading conversations, showcasing your technology, and building high-value connections.

Our audience of 300+ senior manufacturing leaders are actively navigating the transition to smart factories and seeking cutting-edge solutions, from wearable tech and AR to workforce analytics, asset tracking, mobile learning, and more. Could your product be the answer to their prayers?

Discover how your brand can make an impact in Chicago—download your copy of The Connected Worker: Manufacturing Summit Prospectus today.

"The Connected Worker Summit is one of my favorite events of the year because it perfectly meshes innovative technology and the workforce. Technology alone is not a competitive edge and the Connected Worker’s sessions help bring tangible ideas on how to support digital transformation and implementation of critical technologies, while also considering the need for a talented workforce." - Director Workforce Programs, MxD

Boost your brand visibility and engagement at The Connected Worker, Chicago Summit through various impactful sponsorship opportunities. Each option is crafted to maximize exposure and foster positive associations with attendees.

Some of the key opportunities outlined include:

• Hosting a function. We have 6 opportunities remaining, from hosting a welcome reception to an exclusive golf partner
• Enhanced brand visibility. Options include being a hydration partner, WiFi sponsor, exclusive charging station sponsorship, and more
• Speaking, Networking, and Exhibition Packages: Tailored to meet your specific needs and objectives

Check out our other supportive documents:

Sponsorship Prospectus

Floor Plan

Current Attendee List

Ahead of The Connected Worker, Chicago Summit this October, we’ve compiled exclusive insights from senior operations, manufacturing and digital executives via surveys and research calls, to benchmark the challenges and opportunities facing leaders today. Discover top industry insights with our informative infographic, including:

• Top Challenges Facing Senior Executives in Manufacturing
• Top Initiatives Senior Executives are Exploring
• Top Reasons to Invest in Connected Worker Initiatives
• Top Areas of Investment within the next 6-12months
• Top Areas of Investment within the next 12-24 months