EBC 2021 Agenda

Accelerate Beyond Recovery

Business propulsion in the new era

The 2020s have gotten off to a roaring start if you consider that the roar might be coming from a bear.  With a myriad of issues facing them like the skilled labor shortage, supply chain squeeze, and the ramifications of the pandemic, woodworking industry executives are looking for solid information and guidance to navigate the current business climate.  This year’s Executive Briefing Conference will offer woodworking’s top brass the opportunity to hear from other leaders, gain inspiration from outstanding keynote presenters, tour important industry facilities, and network with their peers – while enjoying the awe-inspiring beauty and amenities of the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs.  

EBC 2021 highlights
The EBC opens officially on Wednesday, September 8 at 4 p.m. with leadoff keynote Jim Bouchard, the founder of the “Sensei Leader” movement.  Bouchard’s keynote is titled, "Effective leadership in the post-pandemic era.”  Bouchard’s keynote is sponsored by Blum, Inc. The keynote is followed by an opening reception and dinner at the Broadmoor that will set the stage for the entire event.  
 
Following breakfast on Thursday, September 9, a supply chain panel representing industry manufacturers, suppliers, and specialists discuss current and future supply chain issues.  Also, on Thursday morning, attendees will learn about Kimball International's advanced panel processing operation in Santa Claus, Indiana. 
 
Thursday afternoon will offer attendees optional tours and workshops including:
  • Tour of the MiLL National Training Center
  • Tour of Traum Woodworking (formerly Woodworks Millshop)
  • Supply Chain Workshop
  • Workforce Strategy Workshop
  • Sensei Leadership Workshop
  • Area sightseeing tours
 
Woodworking Network Audience Recognition Reception
A major networking event at EBC 2021 will be held Thursday evening at Woodworking Network’s Audience Recognition reception.  The reception will allow attendees to recognize their peers who make up Woodworking Network’s 40 under 40, Market Leaders, Wood 100, FDMC 300 and Women of Woodworking. 
 
Returning as the closing keynote on  Friday, September 10 is Alan Beaulieu, president and a principal of ITR Economics.  Beaulieu has been a frequent keynote at the Executive Briefing Conference.  Watch Alan Beaulieu's November 10 video broadcast on-demand in which he breaks down the results of the 2020 election and provides an economic forecast for 2021 and beyond.
 
Additional high-level presentations are planned for EBC 2021 on Friday:  
  • Interview with Kelly Victor-Burke, principal at Burke Architectural Millwork.
  • Kenn Busch, founder of Material Intelligence, will address the woodworking industry's sustainability with his presentation, "Climate Positive Now:  How to tell the world’s greatest materials sustainability story."
  • Technology Trends forecast by Gary Wernlund office furniture sales manager, Stiles Machinery, Platinum sponsor of the event.
  • Manufacturing Strategy Panel