Nebraska is rewriting the playbook when it comes to workforce development by bringing together state agencies, education, and local communities to open doors to new opportunities. By teaming up with key partners and investing in our youth, we’re not just preparing the next generation for successful careers – we’re making sure they stay in Nebraska, helping to grow the state and tackle talent shortages – all without breaking the budget.

This panel will discuss how Nebraska can automate its unique manufacturing industry and how automation enhances customer service, retains/recruits workforce, and brings new products to market faster in the manufacturing industry.

What is the “bioeconomy” in Nebraska? This panel will highlight the scope of this opportunity, the products Nebraska creates today, and what could be produced here in the future.

We believe Nebraska’s greatest asset is our people. This panel will highlight the workforce development initiatives that have brought success. Investing in talent not only changes lives but strengthens our businesses and communities.

This is an opportunity for manufacturers to have open dialogue about the Governor’s vision for the industry in Nebraska.

This panel brings together voices from across the agricultural water landscape to explore how innovation is driving both conservation and cost savings. A local representative will discuss cutting-edge tools and management strategies; a producer will share real-world experience implementing on-farm efficiencies; a technology expert will highlight advancements in water quality monitoring; and an industry leader will showcase irrigation technologies improving water use. Together, the panelists will examine practical, tech-driven solutions that benefit both natural resources and the producer’s bottom line.

Governor Pillen has been working with agency leadership to identify and implement process improvements that will translate into better outcomes and savings for Nebraskans. This engagement session will highlight some of those accomplishments, where those projects go from here, and leadership lessons from state directors.

Hear from some of Nebraska’s outstanding young people about why they are choosing to pursue their future in the Good Life. Nebraska is making investments in our youth in a variety of pathways, because in Nebraska we never give up on a kid!

Hear from Nebraska manufacturers that sell their products nationally about the trends they see impacting their industry and how Nebraska can continue growing exports here and abroad.

The U.S. ethanol market is predicted to grow significantly, driven by the rise of biorefineries, expansion into new markets, and a myriad of potential new uses. Nowhere is better positioned than Nebraska to benefit from this bright future!