MxD (Manufacturing x Digital) is at the forefront of the digital transformation revolutionizing American manufacturing. I have most strongly supported the MxD mission and objectives ever since Mike Tanji brought the organization to my attention. In my view, MxD is one of the most virtuous things happening in the manufacturing sector.

As a cybersecurity and digital manufacturing innovation center, MxD partners with manufacturers nationwide to increase productivity, strengthen supply chains, and safeguard the nation’s industrial base in the digital age. Their core focus areas include:

• Future Factory: Embedding software, sensors, and cloud connectivity into every aspect of production to enable real-time learning and self-improvement on the factory floor.
• Cybersecurity: Providing assessment tools and recommendations through the MxD Cyber Marketplace, helping organizations identify and close critical security gaps.
• Supply Chain: Enhancing resilience through digital tracking and advanced analytics.
• Digital Engineering: Integrating cutting-edge design, simulation, and testing to optimize production processes.
• Workforce Development: Training and equipping the modern manufacturing workforce for the challenges of digitized production.

MxD’s unique, 22,000-square-foot research factory not only enables the rigorous testing and demonstration of these technologies but also prepares manufacturers and their staff for the realities of a digitized industrial landscape. As a hub for fresh thinking and bold action, MxD provides partners with a vibrant ecosystem to share ideas, develop solutions, and win in the competitive global economy.

MxD’s Annual Summit: The 2025 Manufacturing x Digital Gathering

Held at MxD’s headquarters in Chicago, the 2025 Manufacturing x Digital Annual Summit (16-17 Sep 2025) is the premier event for industry leaders, technical experts, government partners, and practitioners who are shaping the future of manufacturing. This sold-out event features:

• Keynote Presentations on the future of manufacturing and digital transformation.
• Panels and Workshops on digital technologies, cybersecurity in manufacturing, workforce development, and the integration of AI and emerging tech.
• Focused Tracks for deep dives on digital adoption, cybersecurity best practices (including CMMC compliance and threat intelligence), workforce readiness, and production safety.
• Networking Opportunities with peers, thought leaders, solution providers, and policymakers.

The agenda emphasizes practical, actionable insights for organizations seeking to accelerate their digital journey, from legacy equipment to AI-enabled supply chains. It’s a crossroads for those committed to advancing U.S. capacity, security, and competitiveness .

Why I Am Speaking at the Summit: Supporting America’s Great Builders

My participation at this year’s summit reflects my commitment to supporting those who are driving the American manufacturing renaissance. As I address the audience, my objectives are to:

• Celebrate the builders that MxD gathers! I want to be there to walk among some of the giants who are creating our future.
• Bring insights from the OODA network to the great builders of America. The many experts we gather and support in the OODA network include deep cybersecurity and digital experts who are building and securing systems at scale. The OODA network also includes startup CEOs and founders that are creating digital capabilities that an help accelerate the security of the manufacturing sector.
• Articulate the shifting cyber threat in the age of AI. Threats are changing fast. Defenders need to shift appropriately.
• Learn what the manufacturing sector is doing and bring assessments of that back to the OODA network.

In this time of global uncertainty and strategic competition, it is essential to empower and celebrate the builders, those who are forging America’s future with skill, ingenuity, and resolve. I look forward to engaging with MxD’s community, sharing insights, and advancing the cause of digitally powered, secure, and resilient manufacturing for all.