Oct 06

WMCO Quarterly Networking Event Highlights AI Agent Program, Tariffs and Gov Funds, and Law Employment

Event Overview

The Wood Manufacturing Cluster of Ontario (WMCO) was pleased to welcome members, partners, and industry leaders to HOMAG Canada on October 1 for our Quarterly Networking Event.

The event focused on AI for wood manufacturing, government funding opportunities, employment law updates, and the latest developments from HOMAG.

Speakers Highlights

The day began with WMCO updates and an update on our AI Agent Programs, including the WMCO Estimating and Accounting Agent Programs. Members learned how WMCO is working with manufacturers to develop practical AI solutions around real-world accounting and manufacturing workflows.

Mark Corker of MTechHub shared updates on AI development and the opportunities for manufacturers to use AI to improve efficiency, reduce manual work, and support day-to-day operations.

We were also pleased to welcome our host Marco Fernandes, Director at HOMAG, who provided an introduction to HOMAG and shared insights into the company’s technology, automation, and solutions for modern wood manufacturing.

Following, Jeff King of FedDev Ontario provided an update on the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) and funding support available to eligible tariff-impacted manufacturers.

Moses Odemuyiwa of Belmark Advisory, WMCO’s new funding advisory partner, also presented on government funding opportunities for manufacturers, including grants, non-repayable funding, and support for investments such as equipment, automation, and technology.

The event concluded with Zack Lebane and Jackson Lund of Sherrard Kuzz, who provided practical employment law updates covering hiring, employment contracts, terminations, temporary layoffs, and other important considerations for Ontario employers.

 

Acknowledgements & Appreciation

WMCO extends its sincere thanks to HOMAG Canada for hosting our Quarterly Networking Event and welcoming our members.
A special thank you to Marco Fernandes and the HOMAG team for their organization, presentation, and immense 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.

And finally, thank all of our speakers — Mark Corker, Jeff King, Moses Odemuyiwa, Zack Lebane, and Jackson Lund — for sharing their expertise and insights with our members.

Looking Ahead

We’re excited to continue building practical, member-driven programs around AI and government funding, while creating more opportunities for Ontario manufacturers to connect and share knowledge.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to another successful WMCO event.
We look forward to seeing everyone at our next Plant Tour Event on October 29.