Manufacturing Technology Challenges: Practical Solutions for Today's Plant Floor

Manufacturing Technology Challenges: Practical Solutions for Today's Plant Floor

Technology is changing manufacturing at a rapid pace, but many companies are still struggling with cybersecurity threats, aging systems, AI adoption, and growing IT demands. Join the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance for an interactive panel discussion featuring technology experts who work directly with manufacturers across Georgia.

This educational session will provide practical insights into the most common technology challenges facing manufacturers today. Through real-world case studies and lessons learned from actual manufacturing environments, our panelists will share strategies to help companies reduce risk, improve efficiency, and make smarter technology decisions.

Whether you're concerned about cybersecurity, evaluating AI tools, managing legacy systems, or planning future technology investments, you'll leave with actionable ideas you can apply within your organization.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the latest cybersecurity threats targeting manufacturers
• Learn how manufacturers are successfully implementing AI solutions
• Explore strategies for managing and modernizing legacy systems
• Identify common IT challenges and practical solutions
• Review real-world manufacturing case studies and lessons learned

Who Should Attend:
Manufacturing executives, plant managers, operations leaders, IT professionals, engineers, and anyone responsible for technology, security, or operational performance within a manufacturing organization.

Lunch will be provided.

Meet the panel: 

Reeves Smith
Director of Sales

Reeves Smith is a senior sales leader focused on helping manufacturing, distribution, and industrial organizations develop and execute transformative business strategies through innovative technology solutions. With deep expertise in secure, reliable, scalable, and high-performance IT systems, Reeves partners with clients to drive operational excellence, improve efficiency, and deliver measurable business results. His strategic approach combines industry insight with technology leadership to help companies modernize operations, strengthen infrastructure, and position themselves for long-term growth and success.

Parker Hendricks
Vice President of Sales

Parker Hendricks is VP at RADIN Dynamics, a Microsoft Dynamics 365 implementation partner serving mid-market Georgia manufacturers. His content and speaking focus on workflow-first transformation, the order-of-operations problem in AI adoption, CRM, ERP, custom apps, and what Georgia manufacturers need to know about CMMC before Phase 2 lands in November 2026. Parker holds the AI seat at the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance and serves on the board of the Atlanta Chapter of the International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners (IAMCP). He also serves on the board of his local Johns Creek networking group. Before RADIN, Parker spent fifteen years in the automotive industry, most recently as Director at Hendrick Automotive Group, where he led large teams, ran multi-million-dollar marketing budgets, and built training and reputation programs that worked.

Mitzi Hill
Special Council

Mitzi L. Hill is Special Counsel in Buchalter’s Atlanta office and a member of the Corporate practice group. With more than 30 years of experience advising businesses on technology-driven legal issues, she focuses on cybersecurity, privacy compliance, AI governance, and protection of proprietary information. Mitzi spent 15 years in-house at Turner Broadcasting, where she led regulatory compliance programs and advised on technology systems and international licensing, and she continues to counsel mid-cap and global companies on technology transactions, vendor management, data protection, and emerging AI risks.

3 main discussion points:

• Background – Current Legal Framework for AI/Privacy;
• Contract Management – Best Privacy Practices with Suppliers/What Customers Can Expect;
• Internal Policies and Practices – People and Systems Both Need Updating

Richard Warner
CEO

Richard is a cybersecurity expert, technology analyst, and entrepreneur specializing in cybersecurity awareness, AI threats, and digital risk communication. As the founder of three broadcasting and technology startups, he brings real-world experience and practical insight to audiences across the country. A trusted commentator for television and radio news, Richard is known for making complex technology and cybersecurity topics easy to understand. He is also an accomplished keynote speaker, corporate emcee, and interactive content creator. Richard serves as a board member and volunteer mentor and has been recognized for his contributions to broadcasting as an inductee of the Georgia Radio Hall of Fame.

GMA is pleased to provide this unique educational and networking event specifically designed to help build strategic alliances between suppliers, service providers, and manufacturers in Georgia.

   Thank you to our event sponsor, Leapfrog Services!

If you have any questions, please email support@georgiamanufacturing.com.