Shift: AMC’s Convention and Trade Show

The AMC members who attended this June’s SHIFT Convention in Winnipeg left the event with expanded networks, insights and valuable takeaways regarding strategies and training.

The Convention focused on future planning, conquering hurdles, building strategies and training the next generation. Sessions presented by visionaries and technical specialists led to meaningful discussions among members. The sessions covered a range of themes touching on topics including agricultural trends, manufacturing technology, business strategy and financial management. Energy management talks covered both business and personal energy.

Members received an insider peek of Versatile, with a tour of Canada’s only remaining tractor manufacturing facility. Many appreciated the value of these tours and the way that they opened up their factory.

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A highlight session was a panel of experts from manufacturer, dealer and producer sectors who each shared their insights and experiences in navigating change. A sold-out trade show also brought innovative technology, tools and practical advice to the event.

Abundant networking opportunities emerged from evening activities, and throughout the full two-day schedule. The unique Wednesday night outing gave attendees a chance to try pickleball, badminton and table tennis – all leading to memorable connections and bonding.

On the business energy side, Dean Clark, President & CEO of Greenwave Innovations illustrated how real-time data can be collected and used to make informed decisions. Examples included installing facility-wide, permanent electrical, natural gas and water sub-monitoring systems that manage power, reduce utility bills and environmental footprint, and lower insurance risk and loss.

Desmond Sobool, Director, Economics and Deputy Chief Economist, Farm Credit Canada (FCC) revealed agricultural trends and their effects on business. He identified steps for navigating obstacles that affect profitability, productivity and investments in the agriculture sector. Sharon Hanson from accounting firm MNP added her numbers for improving the bottom line in the ever-changing world.

The most important aspect of any enterprise is people.

Underpinning all business these days is technology, which presents many challenges in shifting from manual to automated work. Sébastien Tremblay, Technical Sales Representative at The Lincoln Electric Company of Canada, illustrated the role of collaborative robots, the latest tool in the journey to automation.

The most important aspect of any enterprise is people. A case in point is the evolution of PAMI to tackle a challenging environment. Paul Buczkowski, President & CEO, illustrated how the correlation among employee engagement, motivation and performance has had positive effects on his organization’s employee morale and bottom line.

The AGM highlighted the tremendous success experienced by the association over the past year.

During the Founders Lunch Milestone members ranging from 5 years to 50 years were acknowledged for their continued investment in AMC. The dedication and engagement of the membership make this a rewarding portion of the Convention and deepen the connection surrounding to growing together with AMC.

The Convention ended with a great evening event including dinner, Future Forward Live Auction and our keynote speaker. We are pleased that this year’s Future Forward Live Auction raised $16,700 to support promising students in entering the field of agriculture. Keynote speaker Michelle Cederberg discussed the human success-energy reset, managing personal energy while shifting into the new world of work.

AMC anticipates another great event at our upcoming Annual Expo and Trade Show in November. This year’s theme, ELEVATE, explores and celebrates industry breakthroughs and will include the annual AMC Hackathon. Dive into the realms of research and development and technological advancement that are sprouting from the leaders in Canadian Agricultural manufacturing.