A prestigious lineup of top industry speakers has signed on to highlight the CabinetMakerFDM Woodworking Business E-vent, a unique new interactive Web-based presentation set for November 18.

“We’re bringing some of the best presentations and speakers the industry has to offer right to the convenience of your desktop,” says Bruce Plantz, publisher of CabinetMakerFDM and vice president of content for WATT.

Looking much like a sophisticated video game, the E-vent format allows attendees to experience and interact with speakers, exhibitors, and fellow E-vent attendees all in real time using their computer and Internet connection without having to travel. Watch a short demonstration video to see how it works.

The future is here  

Using breakthrough interactive technology to bring conferences, networking opportunities and key industry exhibitors to you through the Internet, the E-vent appropriately opens with a discussion of the future of the woodworking industry.

“Beyond 2010: What would it take for woodworking industry to survive?” will feature short presentations and what promises to be lively discussion from three influential industry experts: Michael Dugan, Art Raymond and Gero Sassenberg.

Dugan is currently the chair of the Charles M. Snipes School of Business at Lenoir-Rhyne University. Previously he was the president and CEO of Henredon Furniture Industries for 17 years. His book, “The Furniture Wars: How America Lost a 50 Billion Dollar Industry,” is an insightful look into the recent dramatic changes in the American furniture manufacturing landscape.

After 40 years as a consultant to furniture, cabinetry, and millwork producers, Raymond is now Vice President – Operations at Hooker Furniture Corporation, Martinsville, Va. He has been a frequent contributor to CabinetMaker+FDM magazine. From running his own shops to working with a major European hardware manufacturer to providing insightful consulting for maximum efficiency, Sassenberg’s wide experience over three decades offers a valuable perspective on the industry.

Other topics on tap 

Additional conference sessions emphasize practical information you can use to improve your business. Each session features experts in the specific fields. Here’s a sampling.

“What can small and medium-size shops learn from lean?” features three top lean manufacturing experts – Jim Lewis, Gero Sassenberg, and Carl Spencer – all debunking the myth that lean is just for big factories. Spencer is actively running an award-winning cabinet shop with fewer than 10 employees.

“Social media and other marketing for the woodworking industry” explores dynamic business promotion opportunities available to today’s woodworking businesses. Presenters include Dave Grulke of the Cabinet Makers Association and Bruce Plantz. Both have long experience in marketing from the traditional to the latest social networking techniques.

All the presentations feature the opportunity for live questions and answers.

Software and manufacturing  

Modern shops need modern manufacturing solutions, so two topics are slated to address those needs.

“Getting the most from your software” features Tom Burke from 20-20, Chip Martin from Planit, and John Liedl from KCD, all armed with practical tips to help woodworking software users boost productivity.

“Router, point to point or saw – choosing the right CNC for an application” brings Scott Cruickshank from Stiles Machinery to offer insights in how to match the right CNC system to your products and production needs.

Associations and exhibitors  

Three influential associations and leading industry suppliers have already signed on to participate in this ground-breaking event. The Architectural Woodworking Institute, the Cabinet Makers Association, and the Wood Component Manufacturers Association are all sponsoring organizations and are slated to host town hall events in a special association pavilion during the E-vent.

Top exhibitors already scheduled for interactive booths at the event include Stiles Machinery Inc., Laguna Tools, Planit, KCD, Thermwood, and ITW/Binks/DeVilbiss. See an updated exhibitor list.

Get more information or register online for this free event.