Event Overview
The Wood Manufacturing Cluster of Ontario (WMCO) was pleased to welcome members, partners, and industry leaders to Taurus Craco on June 18 for our Annual General Meeting and Quarterly Networking Event.
The day focused on three topics shaping the future of manufacturing: artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the economic forces impacting our industry.
Speakers Highlights
The morning began with WMCO updates and member engagement activities, followed by an insightful presentation from Mark Corker, from MTech, on AI and workflow automation in manufacturing. Attendees explored how AI is evolving beyond simple chat tools into practical business applications that can support estimating, health and safety, accounting, scheduling, and shop floor operations.
The event also marked the official launch of WMCO’s AI Pilot Program. We are excited by the strong interest and early registrations from members looking to explore real-world AI applications within their businesses and help shape future AI solutions for our industry.
Following lunch, Erez Zevulunov of M.I.T. Consulting shared practical insights into the cybersecurity threats facing manufacturers today, including ransomware, supply chain vulnerabilities, and AI-enabled attacks. The session emphasized the importance of proactive planning, employee awareness, and building resilience across both IT and operational systems.
The afternoon concluded with an economic outlook presentation from Alan Arcand of Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, who provided valuable perspective on trade uncertainty, energy markets, inflation, and the opportunities and challenges facing Canadian manufacturers in the years ahead.
Acknowledgements & Appreciation
WMCO extends its sincere thanks to Taurus Craco for hosting and sponsoring this event, and providing attendees with a valuable fac
ility tour and networking opportunity. A special thank you to Corey Brown and the entire Taurus Craco team for their hospitality and support.
We would also like to recognize Planit Canada for their sponsorship support, with special thanks to Ewald Becker for helping make the event possible.
Looking Ahead
Events like these demonstrate the value of bringing manufacturers together to share knowledge, discuss emerging challenges, and explore new opportunities. The strong participation and engagement throughout the day reinforced the importance of collaboration as our industry continues to evolve.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to another successful WMCO event.
We look forward to continuing the momentum through our AI Pilot Program and seeing everyone at our next Quarterly Networking Event on October 1.
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