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Driven by Innovation 2026
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Driven By Innovation
Driven by Innovation is the Auburn Hills Chamber of Commerce's premiere executive conference bringing together leaders in automotive, robotics, engineering, and advanced manufacturing. Featuring keynotes, executive panels, a curated innovation expo, and high-impact networking, this event connects decision-makers shaping the future of mobility, automation, and industrial transformation making it a powerful platform for visibility, influence, and business development.
Through dynamic keynote panels, focused breakout sessions, and peer-driven roundtable discussions, you'll gain practical insights, explore real-world success stories, and walk away with actionable strategies to fuel innovation and long-term growth in your organization.
Designed for industry leaders, engineers, OEMs, and technology innovators. If you're responsible for driving change, developing talent, or deploying technology in a complex and evolving environment -- this is your space to connect, collaborate, and drive what's next.
Key Features:
- Expert-led panel discussions
- Peer roundtables with fellow industry leaders, engineers, OEMs, and technology innovators
- Discover new business solutions, trends, and strategies that drive success
Keynote Presentations
Trends Driving Change
Join presidents from key advanced manufacturing companies for a candid discussion on trends reshaping the industry. Covering key topics of shifting customer demands, supply chain strategy, AI automation, and workforce development, gain firsthand insights into the decisions leaders are making today to stay competitive tomorrow.
Jana Rosenmann
President
Piston Automotive
Robin Milavec
President, CTO, CSO & Executive Board Director
Nexteer Automotive
John Walsh
President & CEO
Michigan Manufacturers Association
The Power of Customer-Centric Design
Scott Krugger
SVP North America Design
Stellantis
From Icon to Innovation:
Transforming the Palace of Auburn Hills Site
The former Palace of Auburn Hills site has undergone one of the most significant industrial redevelopments in Southeast Michigan. Discover how industry leaders aligned strategy, technology, workforce planning, and execution to bring a complex project to life. Attendees will walk away with real-world lessons on collaboration, adaptability, and large-scale project execution.
Brian Dunn
Vice President – Engineering and Program Management
Piston Automotive
Partnerships in Action Segments
Throughout the day, meet three engineering deans and their industry partners for engaging, interview-style conversations. Explore real-world collaborations between higher education and industry sharing how their alliances are accelerating innovation, solving workforce challenges, and developing tomorrow's engineering talent.
Glenn Stevens
Executive Director
MichAuto
1 | Partnerships in Action: Building Michigan's Engineering Workforce
How can universities become an extension of an employer's talent strategy not just a recruiting source?
Louay Chamra, PhD
Dean & Professor, School of Engineering & Computer Science,
Oakland University
2 | Partnerships in Action: Turning Industry Problems into Classroom Solutions
How can companies leverage universities as innovation partners not just talent providers?
Selin Arslan, PhD
Interim Dean
Lawrence Technological University
3 | Partnerships in Action: The Model That Builds Industry Leaders
How does an immersive work experience create engineers who contribute on day one?
Scott Grasman, PhD
Dean, College of Engineering
Kettering University
Innovation Exchange
Join fellow manufacturing leaders for interactive discussions on today's biggest challenges and opportunities. Exchange ideas, share best practices, and leave with practical solutions you can apply immediately.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Ensure maximum visibility & full value of your sponsorship investment.
Secure your sponsorship by Wednesday, September 9.
Why Sponsor?
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PRESENTING Sponsor | $5,000
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Gold Sponsor | $3,500
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Silver Sponsor | $2,500
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Breakout Session Sponsor | $2,000
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Registration Sponsor | $2,000
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General Session Sponsor | $2,000
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Networking Center Sponsor | $2,000
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Coffee Bar Sponsor | $2,000
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Breakfast Sponsor | $2,000
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Lunch Sponsor | $2,000
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Bronze Sponsor | $1,000
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Date and Time
Thursday Oct 1, 2026
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM EDT
AGENDA
7:30 AM Check-In, Breakfast, Exhibitor Showcase
8:30 AM Welcome & Opening Remarks
Trends Driving Change
Partnerships in Action: The Model That Builds Industry Leaders
The Power of Customer-Centric Design
Partnerships in Action: Turning Industry Problems into Solutions
Innovation Exchange
Networking Lunch
Partnerships in Action: Building Michigan's Engineering Workforce
From Icon to Innovation: Transforming the Palace of Auburn Hills Site
2:00 PM Program Concludes
Location
Auburn Hills Marriott Pontiac
3600 Centerpoint Pkwy
Pontiac, MI 48341
Fees/Admission
Registration Fee:
Members:$199
Future Members: $299
