Longtime and first-time Outlook® conference attendees agreed: This year’s Advanced Textiles Association event (this year newly minted as the Outlook Leadership Conference) at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis., June 2–4, succeeded on all fronts, from the expanded offerings to the different type of venue than in past decades.
Attendees deemed the education sessions full of key takeaways that could be immediately implemented or could inform long-term planning. The speakers’ topics included information ranging from tariffs, leadership skills and supply chain effects to marketing, artificial intelligence and innovation.
“I particularly enjoyed the presenters and the opportunity to connect with both existing and potential new customers,” says first-time attendee Chris Persson, vice president of sales and marketing, Drake Industries, Ridgeway, Va. “The economics and trade updates were very insightful as well; I’m always trying to better understand the market and the impact of global macroeconomics.”
The schedule included two tracks during the morning of the full day of sessions. People could attend the Military Morning, a longtime stalwart of the conference, or a two-hour leadership development workshop, which was a new feature this year. It was given by executive coach and CEO Steve Baue, who also presented a leadership session for all attendees. The Military Morning’s leadership content related to veterans as a part of the workforce and the skills they bring.
The education sessions’ timely topics spurred many discussions among industry professionals throughout the days of the event, which started with a golf outing and opening reception then transitioned into a day and a half of sessions and additional networking opportunities.
“As a first-time attendee, I found the Outlook Leadership Conference to be a standout experience,” says Travis Conlon, director of sales for TVF, Carmel, Ind. “The mix of sessions, peer discussions and industry insights was not only energizing but also deeply relevant to the strategic challenges and opportunities we’re facing at TVF. Not to mention the location—Lambeau Field added a unique and memorable backdrop that elevated the entire experience.
“What stood out most was the quality of conversations,” he continues, “both in and outside the sessions. I appreciated the opportunity to meet so many professionals in person and walk away with fresh perspectives I’ll be applying back at our company. I’ll absolutely be making this event a fixture on our leadership calendar going forward.”…