Since 1985, Clemson University has hosted an annual Global Tire Industry Conference. Originally organized by School of Textiles professors, the conference has now grown to accommodate an international audience of tire industry professionals.
The three-day conference this year kicked off at the Clemson University Center for Corporate Learning in downtown Greenville, featuring several distinguished speakers and presenters. Among them was Dean Wendy York, who spoke about the intersection of business, the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business, and the tire industry.
“At the Powers College of Business, we take immense pride in encapsulating a diverse range of industries. The tire industry, especially within the South Carolina economy, holds a significant place within our ecosystem,” says Dean York. “Our state’s economic landscape is intricately woven with the tire industry’s advancements, innovations and contributions. We are excited about continuing these conversations and initiatives to drive positive change in the industry and beyond!”
By facilitating discussions on technological advancements, manufacturing and research within the tire industry, this conference serves as a vital platform for industry stakeholders. Topics discussed at the conference include workforce development in the industry, the future of manufacturing, regulatory issues, future trends and innovations and environmental issues.
The lineup of speakers over the course of three days included industry executives and stakeholder representatives.
Day 1:
Workforce & Education – Changes & Challenges Facing the Tire Industry
Presented by Giti Tire USA Director of Industry Relations David Shelton
Workforce Centers of Excellence: How charter schools will redefine education and shape tomorrow’s workforce
Presented by SC Public Charter School District Superintendent Chris Neeley and Board of Trustees for SC Charter School District & SC NFL Alumni President Dexter Davis
Next Level Engagement: Captivating Your Future Workforce with Innovative Career Gaming
Presented by SkillsGapp CEO & Cofounder Tina Zwolinski
Report from SC State Workforce Development Board
Presented by Workforce Development Board Member Windsor Sherrill Ph.D., Distinguished Professor of Public Health at Clemson University
Let’s Roll: South Carolina, Leading the Nation’s Tire Industry From Launch to Legacy Presented by Harry Lightsey III, SC Secretary of Commerce
Digital Transformation in the Tire Industry
Presented by Rockwell Automation Industry Leader Kathryn Houk, Tire and Rubber
Next-Generation High-Performance FX sSBR for the Future Tire
Presented by ARLANXEO Technical Services and Development Manager, NORAM Region Steve Teertstra
Sumitomo Rubber Industries Path Forward
Presented by Sumitomo Rubber USA VP, Technical David Johansen
Surface Treated Low Hysteresis Carbon Black to Improve Performance Properties of Truck Tire Tread Compounds
Presented by Continental Carbon Applications Chemist Lashan De Silva
What is Ahead for Manufacturing?
Presented by BorgWarner Manufacturing Engineer Manager Trent Randles
Day 2:
The Evolving State Regulatory Landscape: Impact on the Tire Industry
Presented by Bridgestone Director of Government and Regulatory Affairs Nicole Avramovich
Tire Regulatory Activity – The Effects on Development and Testing
Presented by Smithers VP of Consultancy Josh Gulliams
Why “Telling Our Story” Is No Longer Good Enough
Presented by Liberty Tire Recycling VP, Government Affairs K Stratton Kirton
How Sustainability is Changing the Tire Industry’s Regulatory Landscape
Michelin Director, Industry Standards and Government Regulations June Satterfield
ELT Tire Management Programs and Regulations
Presented by CRM Co, LLC President & CEO Dr. Barry Takallou
Circular Solutions in the Tire Industry
Presented by Bolder Industries CEO Tony Wibbeler
Rolling Giants: Mastering the Art of Moving Giant Tires
Presented by SC Port Authority Chief Commercial Officer Byron Miller and Michelin representatives James Blume & Chris Hicks
Educating the Next Generation of Automotive Engineers
Presented by Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research, Johnell Human Factors Psychology (Ph.D.)
Tire Labeling Solutions
Presented by UPM Raflatac Business Development Manager (Americas) Adam Moffitt
Driving Innovation in Emerging Markets: The Role of Social Entrepreneurship
Presented by Mercedes-Benz Dr. Jianan Sun, Mobility Product Manager
The Chain of Change Required for Breakthrough Innovation
Presented by Blue Inc Strategies Partner Johannes Mutzke
Day 3:
Planning, Implementing, and Reporting Emissions to Drive Business Value
Presented by Sustainserv Director Jeff Gowdy
The Sustainable Revolution in Retreading and its Impact on Fleets
Presented by Tire Retread Information Bureau (TRIB) Managing Director David Stevens
Advancing Rubber Recycling, New Markets and Sustainability Solutions
Presented by TRC/Salvadori Head of Business Development & Government Affairs Genti Bardhi
Michelin REMADE Project – Tire compounding formulation and construction to allow higher incorporation of Micronized Rubber Particle (MRP)
Presented by Michelin Director of Materials Research, Research Center Stephane Cochard
Visit the website to learn more about the Global Tire Industry Conference.
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