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Your People Are the Competitive Advantage. AI Just Unlocks It.

Champions of Manufacturing 2026 is designed for manufacturers who are done with the hype and ready to see what's actually working. This is proof, not promise.

Every session, every demo, and every conversation is designed around one idea: AI is most powerful when it amplifies the people doing the work. You won't sit through vendor pitches or theoretical roadmaps. You'll hear directly from operators and leaders — people like you — who are already using AI to make faster decisions, eliminate bottlenecks, and drive real results across their operations.

The era of sitting on the sidelines of AI is over — come see what's possible when your people are fully empowered to lead it.

What You Can Expect

  • Real Manufacturing Customers, Real Outcomes
    The human trailblazers actually using AI share the value they’ve achieved.
  • Practical, Ready-to-use Applications
    AI, ERP, and Connected Workforce use cases across production, supply chain and operations.
  • Meet the Champions!
    Live demos of our persona-based agents powered by ChampionAI.
  • Peer Insights
    Connect with other leaders solving the same challenges.
  • A Clear Path to Value
    Move from AI pilots to real performance—faster.

Agenda at a Glance

September 21, 2026

QAD User Group Sessions

Monday kicks off with a series of practical, user-led sessions from the QAD User Group, where manufacturers share real-world insights, lessons learned, and proven strategies.

It’s a chance to dive straight into what’s working on the ground before the broader event begins.

The day wraps with a welcome sponsor reception and registration, which gives attendees an opportunity to connect, grab their badge and set the stage for the days ahead.

September 22, 2026

General Session, Sponsor Lunch and Chicago Cubs Baseball Game

Tuesday opens with high-energy general sessions designed to set the tone for the entire event—starting with a dynamic welcome and keynote from Sanjay Brahmawar on how AI is already delivering real results in manufacturing today.

The morning continues with a powerful mix of real customer stories and live discussions, showcasing how companies are turning complexity into measurable outcomes and putting ChampionAI into action across their operations.

Attendees can connect over a sponsor-led lunch and peruse the demo booths before heading out for an evening at Wrigley Field to enjoy a Chicago Cubs game—an iconic Chicago experience and the perfect setting to continue conversations in a more relaxed atmosphere.

September 23, 2026

General Session and Networking Lunch

Wednesday delivers a focused and impactful close to the event. The morning general session begins with Sanjay Brahmawar outlining how to move from proof to action.

Sessions throughout the morning bring together customers and partners to bridge the gap between planning and real performance, with a strong emphasis on frontline execution where results truly take shape.

The final discussions focus on how to drive meaningful change without disrupting the business, before closing with a clear call to action from Sanjay: start now, build momentum, and deliver measurable results.

View Detailed Agenda

“One of the most valuable parts of Champions of Manufacturing was the opportunity to connect directly with peers and have open conversations about the challenges and opportunities manufacturers are facing. I’m looking forward to seeing this year’s event build on that with a strong focus on AI, operational execution, and measurable business outcomes.”

Cedric Brown, CIO at Mueller Industries

Talk Shop. Share Stories. Build Community.

The Champions of Manufacturing event is all about you—the customer. The conference is designed to bring the QAD | Redzone community together, offering exclusive opportunities to connect, share experiences and accelerate growth alongside industry peers.

About the Location

Set in the heart of downtown, Hyatt Regency Chicago provides the ideal backdrop for Champions of Manufacturing Americas.

As one of the city’s premier conference destinations, it offers expansive, modern meeting spaces designed for high-energy sessions, hands-on collaboration, and seamless networking.

Just steps from the Chicago River and surrounded by world-class dining, entertainment, and iconic landmarks, the venue makes it easy for attendees to stay connected both inside and outside the event.

With its scale, accessibility, and vibrant location, the Hyatt Regency Chicago creates an environment where ideas move quickly, conversations flow naturally, and meaningful connections turn into real outcomes.

Your Seat is Waiting - Are You In?

Register now to unlock a world of insight, networking and expertise at Champions of Manufacturing.

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Want to Become a Sponsor?

As an event sponsor, you aren’t just giving your logo visibility—you’re positioning your brand at the center of the agentic AI and Smart Manufacturing revolution. Join us in empowering the people who build the world. Partner with us to gain exclusive access to a diverse network of innovators and decision-makers.

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