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October 15, 2024|12:30 pm – 1:30 pm (CT)

Advanced Manufacturing: Integrating New Technologies for The Fabrication Industry

  • Location: FABTECH Theater l Room S310

Explore the cutting-edge of industrial innovation with our panel on “Advanced Manufacturing: Integrating New Technologies for Fabrication.” This dynamic discussion will delve into the innovative practices redefining the manufacturing landscape. Our expert panelists will unpack the complexities and advantages of integrating these advancements into current manufacturing processes. Attendees will gain invaluable insights into how these transformative technologies are not only enhancing efficiency and precision but also opening new possibilities for product development and design. Join us for a thought-provoking session that promises to expand your horizons and inspire innovation within the realm of advanced manufacturing.

Sponsored By
PRESENTERS

Jake Volcsko

Vice President, Integrated Media

SME

Rhonda Dibachi

CEO and Founder

HeyScottie

Andrew Kossowski

Owner

Veterans Metal LLC

Troy Underwood

Owner

Urban Metals LLC

Adrian Little

Founder

JETechnology

Event Speakers

Jake Volcsko

Vice President, Integrated Media, SME

Jake Volcsko joined SME in August 2023 as Vice President of Integrated Media where he leads a team of talented individuals charged with creating dynamic and innovative media products that connect with users and sponsors. Jake previously served as General Manager of SEO and Digital with DealNews, Inc. Prior, Jake spent 20 years in media and has led significant digital transformation initiatives in roles ranging from Digital Media Director at a small newspaper to Chief Digital Officer at a Public Media organization. During his career, in addition to websites, mobile apps and other digital products, Jake has successfully launched several online subscription models, and a digital services agency. He launched the first local news OTT application on Roku TV in 2013, and in 2014, his was the first local media organization to launch on Amazon FireTV, including a digital linear streaming channel. He is passionate about media and finding ways to use online platforms to bring all audiences into an organization’s engagement funnel. He holds an MBA from the University of Phoenix and a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts/Applied Media Arts from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. Jake has been a high school football official since 2003 and a Division III NCAA football official since 2023. 

Rhonda Dibachi

CEO and Founder, HeyScottie

Rhonda Dibachi is an American business executive, entrepreneur, and author. She is the co-founder and chief executive officer of HeyScottie, an artificial intelligence-powered platform delivering superior sourcing options for manufacturing finishing services.  She was also co-founder and CEO of Noribachi, a custom LED lighting manufacturer specializing in industrial and commercial applications. Prior to Noribachi, she co-founded Niku Corporation, a Silicon Valley-based infrastructure productivity software provider, with her husband Farzad Dibachi.  After going public in 2000, Niku was acquired by CA in 2005. Previously, Dibachi worked for Oracle and has been recognized as a leading female entrepreneur.

In an earlier career, she served as nuclear engineer for GE, and is an author, U.S. patent-holder, and has served a Board Trustee and Advisor for a number of educational, non-profit, government and educational organizations.

Andrew Kossowski

Owner, Veterans Metal LLC

Andrew is the owner of Veterans Metal LLC, a medium job shop located in Largo, Florida.

Andrew started his career in the USAF, where he contributed to the manufacturing of the C-17 & E-8C Aircrafts. He has since held several executive positions, most notably as CIO for Airtel Africa and prior to that, VP of Operations for Ericsson in Latin America and Caribbean. Andrew has a BSc from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and a MSc from Boston University.

Troy Underwood

Owner, Urban Metals LLC

Troy Underwood is the owner of Urban Metals LLC, which does business in the Tampa Bay Area under the name of Tampa Steel & Supply (TSS).  TSS is a full line metal service center located in Ybor City that also produces decorative metal products.  Troy purchased TSS in 2018 having served as President since 2014.  The business was recognized by the Business Observer as one of the top 500 largest companies on the Gulf Coast in 2020.

Troy has an extensive record in management and sales of consumer and industrial building products.  Prior to his positions at TSS, Troy oversaw the stone veneer manufacturing facility for Environmental Stoneworks in Atlanta where he learned and implemented LEAN manufacturing principals.

In addition to being on the Board of Directors for the Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA), Troy is on the National Small Business Association’s (NSBA) Leadership Council and he volunteers as an Advisor to both Hillsborough Community College’s Office Administration Program and Welding Program.

Troy is a Veteran, having served honorably for nine years as an Officer in the Army Reserve.  His company is Certified by the State of Florida’s Office of Supplier Diversity as a Veteran Owned Business.

Adrian Little

Founder, JETechnology

JETechnology Solutions, Inc. was founded by Florida State University and UCF graduate, Adrian Little in 2004 with one simple premise — customer focus. Currently, our team has over 75 years’ experience in the design and manufacturing of ground support equipment.  We are known worldwide for our custom fall protection equipment for aircraft such as the F-16, F-15, A-10, F-18 and more.  Our manufacturing facility is located in Apopka, FL and provides us a base to deliver our equipment worldwide including the Americas, England, Germany, Japan, just to name a few.

Today, JETechnology, continues to be led by Mr. Little.  Its 25 employees cover a wide array of disciplines, including Assemblers, Project Managers, Engineers, Accountants, Machinists, Welders, and more ensure that its products and services are provided to its customers and as they strive to be leaders in the fall protection industry.

Mr. Little is a family man and loves spending time with his wife and twin teenage sons engaging in activities including basketball, saltwater fishing, and traveling.

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