InfraStructures - October 2012 - Equipment Industry “Difference Makers” Share Strategies for Business Survival and Success

Equipment Industry “Difference Makers” Share Strategies
for Business Survival and Success

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) upcoming annual conference will examine market challenges, economic trends, global pressures and changes in the political scene. The goal: help attendees strengthen their roles as difference makers.

The AEM Annual Conference will be held November 7-9, 2012, at the Terranea Oceanfront Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. Additional networking events are offered on November 10.
The event is the leading education and networking gathering for senior executives in the off-road equipment manufacturing industry. Keynotes, presentations, panel discussions and breakout sessions will focus on the “= difference” conference theme.

Lend Ideas, Take Ideas: Keep the Difference Advantage Going
Brad Meltzer, New York Times best-selling author, opens the conference. As host of History Channel’s “Decoded,” he’s studied the stories of heroes and will explore how attendees can “attain your vision: tap the power to succeed.”
With the just-held presidential election, two White House confidantes with opposing philosophies will discuss results and ramifications: Robert Gibbs, longtime advisor to Barack Obama, and Karl Rove, former deputy chief of staff and senior advisor to George W. Bush.

Sam Allen, chairman and CEO of Deere & Company, will speak on the risks and rewards of serving a growing global population and the challenges manufacturers face in meeting those needs.

Industry economic experts on the “Be Prepared” panel will examine multiple economic trends affecting the off-road equipment industry: Don Johnson, chief economist, Caterpillar Inc.; J.B. Penn, chief economist, Deere & Company; Andy Kaplowitz, vice president, Barclays Capital/Lehman Brothers; and Matt Simon, Portfolio Manager, Global Equities.

Breakout sessions led by AEM member company executives include: Julian Archer of Infor on a holistic approach to manufacturing and aftermarket service, Brian Barlow of BMG on sustainability program developments that affect the construction supply chain and Jake Gaylord of Almon Inc. on proactive management of intellectual property assets.

Peter Zeihan of geo-political intelligence provider STRATFOR will share fresh insights into geo-politics, economic power and the changing world order. And Carl Cannon of the Peoria (Illinois) Park District will share his inspiring story of positive change: he helps at-risk children evolve into productive adults who contribute to reducing industry workforce needs.

During the conference, AEM will conduct its Annual Business Meeting, with election of directors, recognition of longtime member companies and progress reports on AEM’s business and advocacy programs and strategic plan initiatives to meet evolving member needs. AEM will also hold its annual AEMPAC fundraising gala and AEM Hall of Fame induction ceremony and celebration.

Source: The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM)