Events

November 4, 2025
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

A tour of KION North America’s Summerville campus showcased world-class manufacturing in action. From custom forklift assembly and mast fabrication to smart logistics and robotic welding, the visit highlighted how automation, precision, and people-driven innovation come together. KION’s Home Turf initiative demonstrates the value of local production, workforce development, and operational excellence.

October 29, 2025
10:00 am - 2:30 pm

OpExChange members explored digital twin simulation modeling in a hands-on workshop led by Jason Merschat. Participants built virtual models of their own processes, testing scenarios and identifying constraints before making real-world changes. The session highlighted how digital twins combine Lean principles, data, and visualization to drive smarter, safer, and more efficient operations.

October 21, 2025
11:45 am - 3:45 pm

OpExChange members visited Northern Tool + Equipment’s Fort Mill distribution center to explore “Smart Distribution.” The tour showcased advanced automation—AutoStore and Packsize—paired with a people-first culture, long-tenured employees, and workforce development initiatives like Tools for the Trades™. NTE demonstrated that operational excellence thrives when technology and human talent work together.

September 23, 2025
10:30 am - 12:00 pm

South Carolina is experiencing a surge in data center growth, reshaping opportunities for manufacturers. In a recent webinar, industry experts highlighted the forces driving this expansion—from fiber and power availability to automation, controls, and AI. Local manufacturers like AFL and Daedalus Industrial are already supplying critical infrastructure, positioning the state to play a major role in the global digital economy.

September 9, 2025
12:45 pm - 3:45 pm

Itron’s West Union facility offered a compelling look into the future of energy, water, and smart city management. As the company centralizes North American operations, the site is driving a renewed lean transformation supported by advanced automation, real-time analytics, and a strong culture of engagement. Attendees saw high-speed meter assembly, innovative gas meter technology, and battery-powered device production—all underscoring Itron’s role as a global leader in grid modernization and resource efficiency.

September 8, 2025

A perfect day on the course became something far more meaningful: the inaugural OpExChange Golf Tournament brought together manufacturers from across South Carolina and raised $28,900 for Upstate Warrior Solution. Beyond the friendly competition, the event reflected the true spirit of the OpExChange community—people coming together not only to strengthen their companies, but to support veterans, first responders, and families who have served.

August 19, 2025
12:45 pm - 4:00 pm

The August visit to BMW Spartanburg offered a powerful look inside Assembly Hall 52, where automation, digital twins, and AI are transforming automotive production. Guided by Brad Stone and BMW’s Innovation team, attendees saw how advanced robotics, data-driven decision-making, and human-centered ergonomics come together. The experience showcased BMW’s vision for the factory of the future—and practical ideas for today.

August 5, 2025
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

In the nearly 24-year history of the OpExChange, no plant tour has been larger than the recent visit to SEW-Eurodrive’s Lyman, South Carolina campus. More than one hundred guests from forty-seven organizations, representing 17 counties, gathered to experience one of the more advanced manufacturing operations in the Southeast.

July 15, 2025
12:00 pm - 3:45 pm

In the quiet town of Bamberg, South Carolina, Phoenix Specialty Manufacturing stands as a shining example of American manufacturing resilience. A fourth-generation, family-owned company with roots dating back to 1907, Phoenix was recently honored by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) as a Hero of American Manufacturing.

June 26, 2025
1:00 pm - 3:45 pm

IFA’s Summerville plant is transforming to meet the rapid shifts in the automotive industry. During a recent site visit, guests saw how the team is investing $40 million in advanced automation, expanding half-shaft production, and strengthening problem-solving systems. From fully automated assembly lines to skilled workforce development, IFA is redefining modern automotive manufacturing in South Carolina.