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.

Moderator:
Speakers:	Courtney Wittstruck, Nebraska Community College Association
	Katie Thurber, Commissioner, Nebraska Department of Labor
	Dr. Matt Gotschall, Central Community College

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

Moderator:

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.

Moderator:
Speakers:	Vanessa Rising, Novonesis
	Mel Badheka, Citroniq Chemicals
	Nate Stephens, Cargill
	Dr. Hank Robinson, Aksarben Foundation
	Dr. Brad Lubben, UNL Department of Ag Economics

 

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.

Moderator:	Jeff Harrison, Deloitte
Speakers:	Carmen Tapio, North End Teleservices
	Paul Younes, Younes Hospitality
	Jake Aulick, Aulick Industries
	Craig Hicks, Aulick Industries
	Justin Gipe, Scottsbluff Public School

 

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.

Moderator:
Speakers:	Scott Volk, Weiland Doors
	Diane Temme Stinton, TMCO
	Jordan Klute, Klute
	Rich Harold, Lindsay Corp.

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.

Moderator:	Jesse Bradley, Director, Nebraska Department of Water, Energy & Environment
Speakers:	Joe Anderjaska, Middle Republican NRD board
	Tracy Zink, Producer
	Jackson Stansell, Sentinel Ag
	Justin Gibson, Lindsay Corp.
	Jeff Steffen, Producer

 

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.

Moderator:
Speakers:	Director Vicki Kramer, Nebraska Department of Transportation
	Director Rob Jeffreys, Nebraska Department of Corrections
	Director/COO Lee Will, Nebraska Department of Administrative Services

 

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!

Moderator:
Speakers:	Dr. Tiffany Heng-Moss, UNL & students of Elite 11 Veterinarian Program
	Lane Carr, Nebraska Department of Education
	Dr. Paul Illich, Southeast Community College

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.

Moderator:
Speakers:	Tony Raimondo, Behlen Manufacturing
	Chris Roth, Reinke Manufacturing
	Mike Boyle, Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp.

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!

Moderator:
Speakers:	Ben Rhodes, Nebraska Ethanol Board
	Nick Bowdish, Siouxland Ethanol
	Trevor Hinz, ICM Inc.