The southeast Tennessee region has become an advanced manufacturing and distribution hub. To support this continued growth and economic impact of our region, it is necessary to develop and strengthen the capabilities and skill sets of employees and potential employees.

In it's third year, Lee University and Cleveland State are working towards achieving their joint goal of hosting a yearly conference that enables our world class organizations to share models of excellence, best practices, innovative applications, and network with other organizations.

It is our goal that these conferences will support development of the products and services offered by our area businesses, encourage other organizations to grow and locate to our region knowing that there is a supportive network to assist in their success, and support and strengthen our regional workforce.

This year's conference theme is "Bridging the Gap". Often times there is some sort of disconnect - whether between business and industry and higher education, students perceptions of manufacturing and actuality, or between employers and employees. This year's conference will highlight various ways that industry and education are working to close the gap in student's and incumbent's skill sets.

New this year

Student-Industry Networking Session

New to this year's conference is a student and industry networking session. If you are an HR or Recruitment professional and want to attend this free session, please fill out this form.

Scholarship

Additionally we are now offering two $500 scholarships to the winning student submissions from CSCC and Lee University. For more information, click here.

Sessions in this track will focus on various topics surrounding operational excellence and features presenters from Volkswagen, Sanofi, Rock Creek Informatics, & more!

Sessions in this track will focus on various topics surrounding safety programs, employee relations, pre-employment testing, and emotional intelligence, and features presenters from Peak Performance Inc, McKee, & more!

This track will be tailored to college students and the transition from college to the workplace. This track will feature social media footprints, the co-op experience, and an industry networking session. If you plan on attending the student-industry session, be sure to check the box on the registration form here.