MD&M South 2026 Announces Lineup of Keynotes and Educational Sessions

The manufacturing event will feature industry leaders discussing AI, robotics, and smart manufacturing strategies.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 3:52pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a robotic arm repeated in a tight grid pattern, conceptually representing the transformative role of automation in modern manufacturing.MD&M South 2026 will showcase the latest innovations in manufacturing technology, from robotics to 3D printing, as industry leaders share insights on driving efficiency and growth.Greenville Today

MD&M South 2026, the premier event for manufacturing professionals, has announced an exceptional lineup of keynote presentations and educational sessions for its upcoming event on April 22-23, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The event will feature industry leaders addressing critical topics in advanced manufacturing, automation, and innovation, including sessions on overcoming automation challenges, leveraging emerging technologies, and building a skilled manufacturing workforce.

Why it matters

As manufacturers continue to navigate the evolving landscape of automation, AI, and smart technologies, events like MD&M South provide a valuable platform for industry professionals to gain insights, network, and discover solutions to drive efficiency and innovation in their operations. The diverse lineup of speakers and sessions reflects the urgent need for manufacturers to stay ahead of the curve and equip their workforce with the skills necessary to succeed in the future of manufacturing.

The details

The keynote lineup will kick off on April 22 with a session by Logan McKnight, a MedTech advisor, exploring the common pitfalls of failed initiatives and how organizations can build a stronger foundation for long-term success. The following day, Steven King, CEO of Blue Sky Robotics, will discuss how virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and robotics are transforming automation and provide actionable insights for overcoming automation challenges. Additional sessions will cover topics such as the synergies between lean and smart manufacturing, best practices for emerging brand and contract manufacturing partnerships, and strategies for building a skilled and engaged manufacturing workforce.

  • MD&M South 2026 will take place on April 22-23, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
  • The keynote by Logan McKnight is scheduled for April 22.
  • The keynote by Steven King is scheduled for April 23.

The players

Logan McKnight

A MedTech advisor who will explore the common pitfalls of failed initiatives and how organizations can build a stronger foundation for long-term success.

Steven King

The CEO of Blue Sky Robotics, who will discuss how virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and robotics are transforming automation and provide actionable insights for overcoming automation challenges.

Conrad Leiva

The VP of Ecosystem and Workforce at CESMII - The Smart Manufacturing Institute, who will host a session on the synergies between lean and smart manufacturing.

Tim Stuart

The President of Visual Decisions, who will host a session on the synergies between lean and smart manufacturing.

Ron Puvak

The Executive Director of the Contract Packaging Association, who will present a session on best practices for emergent brands and contract manufacturing partnerships.

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What they’re saying

“MD&M South 2026 is a platform for innovation, collaboration, and growth, and generates insights into the crucial conversations shaping the future of manufacturing.”

— Steve Everly, Group Event Director, Manufacturing by Informa

What’s next

Attendees can register for MD&M South 2026 on the event's website to secure their spot and access the full lineup of keynotes, sessions, and networking opportunities.

The takeaway

MD&M South 2026 is poised to be a must-attend event for manufacturing professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve in automation, AI, and smart manufacturing technologies. The diverse lineup of speakers and sessions will provide valuable insights and practical strategies to help organizations drive innovation, improve efficiency, and build a skilled workforce for the future of manufacturing.