PROGRAM SESSIONS & NETWORKING EVENTS

All times are Central Standard Time

Monday, October 7th
Meeting of Millwork Minds
(All Meeting of Millwork Minds program events are held at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter Hotel)

8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.


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9:45 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.


Event Sponsor
Distributor Business Breakfast Meeting
Join your fellow distributor members for breakfast to reconnect and receive the latest updates on the industry and association.
Distributor Members Only.



WMA Business Roundtable
The WMA Business Roundtable is a favorite amongst attendees providing a networking opportunity to meet with colleagues, share common challenges, and identify solutions.

 

12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m

Stefanie Couch
Keynote
Millwork Connections Luncheon
Gather and network at lunch with colleagues who share your interests and hear from a noteworthy speaker on issues relevant to you and your business.


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Future-Proof Your Millwork Business - Harnessing AI and Personal Branding for Unmatched Growth

In today's rapidly evolving millwork industry, staying ahead of the curve means embracing innovative strategies that drive growth and efficiency. Join us at the Millwork Connections Luncheon featuring keynote Stefanie Couch to discover the game-changing power of AI and the transformative impact of personal branding.

Read more about Stefanie’s presentation and don’t miss this opportunity to future-proof your business and achieve unparalleled success.

Drawing on over 20 years of industry expertise, Stefanie will explore how AI and automation can revolutionize your business operations, allowing you to scale without the need for additional team members - an essential advantage in the current labor shortage. Learn how to streamline processes, enhance productivity, and boost profitability through intelligent automation.

But the journey doesn't stop there. We'll delve into the art of personal branding, revealing how to build compelling brands around your ownership, leadership, and employees. Understand why branding goes far beyond colors and logos, becoming a vital tool for both recruiting top talent and driving sales. Discover how a strong personal brand can differentiate your business, attract loyal customers, and create a lasting legacy in the millwork industry. Learn how to become the employer and supplier of choice, standing out as the best in the market. This isn't about becoming an influencer; it's about becoming a person of interest who can attract the talent and customers you want most.

Continue your growth and amplify your impact with this keynote, your gateway to mastering AI and personal branding. Don't miss this opportunity to future-proof your business and achieve unparalleled success.

 

1:45 p.m. - 3:15 p.m

Connor Lokar
Staying Ahead of the Curve in 2025 - 2026
Presenter Connor Lokar, ITR Economics

2024 has included a tapestry of conflicting economic trends, with some industries enjoying ongoing growth and others in overt recession. Manufacturing and much of the industrial portion of the economy experienced a mild recession, but that decline will soon give way to rise and additional opportunities in 2025 and 2026 for well-prepared businesses. The services sector of the economy slowed in its rate of rise in 2024 and is expected to increase its rate of rise in 2025 and into 2026.

Join Connor as he shares his outlook on key industries for the next two years. Read more about this informative presentation.


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We will discuss consumer spending, inflation, interest rates, the labor market, and key leading indicators. Our examination will extend to global markets and their impact on the domestic landscape. This presentation will provide information on necessary tactics and strategies that will prepare you for an upswing in the business cycle post 2024. Knowledge gained from the presentation, in conjunction with ITR Economics’ time-tested analytical tools, will provide you the means to maximize profit in the years ahead.

 

3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m

Severin Sorensen
The AI Whisperer for Business
Presenter: Severin Sorensen, ePraxis LLC

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, it is imperative for business leaders and their teams to understand and responsibly harness the power of AI. Forrester Research predicts that for every five jobs impacted by AI, one will be eliminated, and four will be AI-augmented. However, AI will not replace your job or capture your business; instead, those who know how to effectively utilize AI will gain a significant competitive advantage.

Read more  about this speaker session that aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills to become an "AI Whisperer."

This speaker session aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills to become an "AI Whisperer." Drawing from the groundbreaking best-selling books by Severin Sorensen, including "The AI Whisperer: Handbook for Leveraging Conversational Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT for Business," "The AI Whisperer Draws: AI Art Made Easy for the Non-Technical User Through MidJourney," and "The AI Whisperer Wizard Words: ChatGPT Semantic Tokens, Keywords, & Phrases for Business," this session is tailored for non-technical business owners, CEOs, executives, and team members. Written from a business coaching perspective, the books offer over 50 business use cases, 10-20 prompts per case, and more. #AI #ChatGPT https://tinyurl.com/The-AI-Whisperer.

This presentation aims to empower non-technical business users to gain access, insight, curiosity, and capability with conversational AI, ChatGPT, and other AI tools. Leveraging material from the AI Whisperer book series, the author guides participants through in-depth explorations of business case studies, incorporating new use cases that members may have expressed during the opening Q&A session.

Topics covered include:
  • What it means to be an AI Whisperer
  • Techniques for asking better questions and delving deeper into AI-generated responses
  • Refining and redirecting AI to obtain more accurate and relevant answers
  • Identifying and correcting common AI reporting errors
  • Utilizing scripts and prompts for OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google Gemini, MS CoPilot, Anthropic’s Claude 3, other research queries
  • Applying AI to solve complex business problems
The session also showcases live examples of generative AI and visual AI for creating illustrations, art, graphics, and imagery. It concludes with a critical discussion of the ethical and legal aspects of AI use. Participants receive customized prompt journeys based on their specific business use cases, which are explored during the presentation and shared afterwards.

The program has been continuously updated with new material to ensure its relevance and accessibility. Recent presentations have garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback, with participants praising the session's strategic, consultative, and engaging nature. Comments from a recent presentation in Seattle, WA, on April 24, 2024, scored the session 5.0 on a 5-point scale, with attendees describing it as "eye-opening," "practical," and "remarkable."

 

5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m


Event Sponsor
WMA Icebreaker Reception
What better way to conclude a fantastic day at the Meeting of Millwork Minds than with the always-popular Icebreaker Reception. This event is the place to reconnect with existing members and meet new ones, including guests, while unwinding. It's an ideal opportunity to chat with customers, suppliers, and coworkers before the tradeshow begins the next day.

 



Tuesday, October 8th

8:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m


Event Sponsor
WMA Women in Millwork Breakfast Forum
(This event takes place at the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel)
Ladies Join Us!

The WMA acknowledges, supports, and promotes the role of women in all roles and positions within the millwork industry. The WMA Women in Millwork Forum provides a platform for women to connect, learn from one another, discuss relevant topics, share their insights, and challenge themselves to continue developing and succeeding in an evolving industry.


Throughout the day, the following Breakout Sessions will be featured in the Exhibit Hall (Hall 4B)

10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m

Ravi Srinivasan
Enhancing Millwork Excellence: Leveraging CRM for Superior Customer Engagement and Operational Efficiency
Presenter: Ravi Srinivasan, AI-InteleKt

This is Part I of a 2-part session today. In this first session, Ravi Srinivasan will share his experience and insights on how to transform your millwork business with advanced CRM solutions. Attendees will discover how CRM can revolutionize operations and customer relationships all of which are necessary in preparing for the future.

Click here to find out why you and your team cannot afford to miss this session and the valuable session takeaways.

Session Takeaways:
  • Enhance Customer Engagement: Personalize interactions and build lasting relationships through detailed customer insights.
  • Streamline Operations: Automate critical processes from sales to customer service, increasing efficiency and reducing costs.
  • Drive Sales Growth: Utilize powerful analytics for precise sales forecasting and effective lead management.
  • Seamless Integration: Easily integrate with existing systems to leverage data and minimize disruption.
  • Prepare for the Future: Equip your business with scalable CRM tools that adapt to market changes and technological advancements.

 

11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m

Stefanie Couch
AI Unleashed: Embracing the Power of AI & Automation
Presenter: Stefanie Couch

We are on the cusp of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where artificial intelligence (AI) isn't just science fiction; it's a transformative force redefining global industries. This dynamic presentation strips AI of its complexities, unveiling its immense potential to reshape our world, enhance decision-making, and optimize operations. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a business leader, or an intrigued novice, you'll find valuable insights from Stefanie on how AI can revolutionize different facets of our lives and open new growth avenues.

Learn more about this session and the deliverables.

Beyond just understanding AI, this session offers an actionable three-step plan to start integrating AI into your personal and professional life. The future is here - it's time to not just witness, but actively participate in this AI-driven era. Attendees will leave this session with a sound understanding of AI and a concrete plan to leverage its power effectively.

Session Takeaways:
  • Demystifying AI: Develop a better understanding of what AI is, its workings, and the potential it holds. Simplify complex concepts, dispelling any fears or misconceptions, and fostering AI literacy.
  • Exploring AI Applications: Dive into real-world examples of an AI in action across various industries. Understand how AI is revolutionizing operations, changing marketing & branding enhancing decision-making processes, and driving business growth.
  • Integrating AI into Your Life: Learn practical ways to start leveraging AI in your personal and professional life. Walk away with a clear, actionable three-step plan to harness the power of AI, tailored to your unique needs and goals.

 

1:45 p.m. - 2:15 p.m

Erin Selfe
Cyber Crime: Stories from the Trenches
Presenter: Erin Selfe, Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance

Over the last few years, most of us have become sufficiently scared about cybercrime. In this session, Erin will start out discussing what cybercrime looks like behind the scenes and how it is evolving. Erin will share firsthand and global stories, both positive and negative, from one who lives it every day. With these experiences as a backdrop, she talks about lessons learned and what common defenses, both human and technical, helped (or could have helped) prevent or reduce the impact of cyber incidents.

Bring your cyber-related questions and thoughts so we can explore this topic together, live and in person!

What can you hope to take away from this session? Click here!.

Session Takeaways:
  • By attending this session, you will have a better understanding why and how cybercrime operates
  • How AI is strengthening the cybercriminals’ toolbox
  • Reinforcement of the primary practices of your company, regardless of size, could be used to defend against even the most complex cyber-attacks.

 

2:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m

Dena Cordova-Jack
The Changing Leadership Mode
Presenter: Dena Cordova-Jack

Join us for an immersive exploration of Evolutionary Leadership, where we delve into the transformative power of leadership that transcends traditional paradigms. Through a dynamic blend of Shared Leadership, Idealized Influence, Inspiring Action, Intellectual Stimulation, and Individualized Consideration, you can empower individuals to drive meaningful change.

Dena’s presentation focuses on defining collective visions, fostering shared missions, and uniting teams around common causes, all while emphasizing ethical leadership and influence over authority. By embracing Frist Principle Thinking and prioritizing personal development, attendees will learn to design decision-making frameworks, foster autonomy, and cultivate a culture of continuous communication and growth.

Step into a new leadership model that not only inspires but also empowers, where growth is not linear but exponential. Learn more about this session and the deliverables..

 

3:15 p.m. - 3:45 p.m

Ravi Srinivasan
Advancing Millwork Precision: AI-Driving CRM for Enhanced Service and Manufacturing Excellence
Presenter: Ravi Srinivasan, AI-InteleKt

This afternoon’s session is Part 2 of Mr. Srinivasan's 2-part session and expands on Part I, AI-Driving CRM Solutions to enhance customer interactions, improve product quality and efficiency, and the strategic business advantage.

This session identifies:
  • Enhanced Customer Interaction: AI in CRM can revolutionize customer service operations, making them more efficient and responsive, thus increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Improved Product Quality and Efficiency: Leveraging AI for predictive maintenance not only reduces manufacturing defects but also optimizes resource usage and enhances product reliability.
  • Strategic Business Advantage: Adopt AI-driven CRM solutions to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving millwork industry, ensuring both technological advancement and superior customer and product management.

 

4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m

Kevin Parnell
Critical Red Light Issues Affecting Transportation
Presenter: Kevin Parnell, Ryder Systems

Kevin has 28 years of experience focusing on operations and sales and currently is the Director of Business Development with Ryder Systems. In this session, Kevin will share his insights on the factors affecting transportation, including the industry's rapid changes, the economy, and other significant forces impacting the transportation industry.

 

6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m


Event Sponsor
A Night Under the Texas Stars
An Evening of Entertainment, Fun, and Celebration!

Attendees will step into a pivotal chapter of American history at the Alamo, located in the heart of vibrant San Antonio. As you learn about this legendary site, known for its heroic stand in 1836, WMA invites you to a spectacular evening exploring the Alamo’s storied past with a guided tour. Let's kick up our heels with a night of entertainment, savor Texas tastings and beverages, and have a lot of fun under the Texas stars.

Join us for this special evening event sponsored by Steves and Sons.


Wednesday, October 9th
Wednesday will feature these Breakout Sessions in Exhibit Hall (Hall 4B)

10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m

Stefanie Couch
Branding & LinkedIn Abstract
Presenter: Stefanie Couch

Unlock the power of your personal brand on LinkedIn and beyond. People trust individuals more than company brands, making your personal presence on LinkedIn a key asset. According to Forbes, CEOs with a strong personal brand increase their company value by 11% than those with CEO with no personal brand.

This workshop empowers millwork industry leaders to harness LinkedIn’s vast network. Learn more about this session and why you don’t want to miss it.

With the right strategies, your profile can become a hub for opportunities, showcasing your expertise and connecting with valuable industry players.

Stefanie will break down easy strategies to get started capitalizing on these tools and building your brand with just a few hours a week. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to gain traction with the free resource LinkedIn provides.

Session Takeaways:
  • Why Personal Branding Works: Discover & understand the importance of personal branding and how it can open doors to new opportunities by building trust and authenticity in the millwork industry.
  • Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile: Learn how to craft a compelling LinkedIn profile that showcases your expertise and achievements, making you stand out to peers and potential connections. Optimized headlines, About Me, Banners, and Recommendations will help you shin brightly on LinkedIn.
  • Connect, Engage, and Lead: Uncover strategies for growing your network, business, career, engaging with your connections in meaningful ways, and establishing yourself as an industry expert through insightful content.

 

11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m

Dena Cordova-Jack
Driving Success Through Strategic Leadership and Communications
Presenter: Dena Cordova-Jack

Embark on a transformative journey with Dena’s Strategic Leadership and Communications session. Leadership is an inside job, and communication is key to driving results. Dena will present methods of driving company success through visionary leadership and effective communication strategies.

This session is a must for every business leader. More about the session - Click here!

Delve into the core principles of strategic leadership, emphasizing the importance of aligning organizational goals with actionable plans and inspiring teams to excel. Explore the power of clear, compelling communication in fostering collaboration, enhancing productivity, and building strong organizational culture.

Learn about the tools and insights needed to navigate complex business landscapes, lead with clarity, and purpose, and propel your company towards unprecedented success.



Thank You Convention Sponsors