AICC Meeting (CONT’D FROM PAGE 16)
O’Leary inspired members to approach both business and life with gratitude, courage, and a renewed sense of pur- pose. Chad Pregracke, founder of Living Lands & Waters and CNN Hero of the Year, shared how one person’s action can spark wide-reaching change. His keynote challenged members to turn challenges into opportunities in their businesses and communities. The event concluded with a dynamic closing keynote by Sam Richter, Hall of Fame Speaker and bestselling author, titled "Generative AI and Your Future." Richter en- gaged the audience with an eye-opening and accessible look at how generative AI is reshaping industries, work- places, and everyday life, urging professionals to adapt and leverage this transformative technology for success in an increasingly digital world. Richter will offer a deep-dive demo on using the Packing Industry Intel Engine to grow your business during Generative AI and Your Future, a free webinar for AICC members on November 13. Over a dozen attendees came to Chicago early to par- ticipate in Unlock Financial & Operational Synergy, a two- day seminar led by Mitch Klingher, Klingher Nadler LLP. Klingher also offered guidance on business planning fol- lowing the passage of the Build Back Better Act during the Focus Session. Shoshana Micon, AF&PA, also pro- vided essential updates on containerboard markets and sustainability policies, and Ryan Fox of Green Markets, a Bloomberg company, examined containerboard industry shifts, from acquisitions to capacity changes. The Supplier Panel Discussion: Latest Developments and Innovations in Digital Print brought together a power- house lineup of experts representing leading technology providers — Matthew Condon, Domino; Steve Shannon, HP; Liz Logue, EFI; Chuck Slingerland, Barberan; John Kel- ley, Kento; and Tom Green, Durst — moderated by Greg Tucker of Bay Cities. Panelists discussed the latest ad- vancements in digital printing, from automation and col- or management to hybrid workflows and customization. Their insights gave converters a clear look at where digital print technology is heading — and how it is reshaping both productivity and customer expectations. In his session, “Working on the Business: Gap Analysis and Strategic Planning to Protect While You Grow,” Chris Santomassimo, Partner at Outside General Counsel, OGC Solutions, guided attendees through practical approaches to balancing growth with risk management. In addition to enjoying views of the Chicago River and skyline, attendees got to network via the Women in Pack- aging Social, Emerging Leaders Networking Event, and plant tours at StandFast Group, Blackhawk Corrugated, Digital Print Partners, and The Royal Group. The 2025 Annual Meeting proved that the independent spirit is strong, adaptable, and future-focused. Attendees returned home with fresh strategies, new connections, and renewed energy to lead their companies forward.
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October 27, 2025
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