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Conference Agenda

Theme: Taking Flight Into the Future

Join us for an unforgettable experience of innovation, networking, and industry insights!

  • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM – Registration Opens
    Kick off your conference experience by getting checked in.

    5:00 PM - 5:30 PM – New Members Reception
    A warm welcome for our newest members—network, meet, and mingle with the industry’s brightest minds.

     

    5:30 PM - 7:00 PM – Welcome Reception
    Let the networking begin! Enjoy drinks, appetizers, and a chance to connect with peers in a relaxed setting.

     

    Dinner on your own – Explore local dining options or join your fellow members. 

  • 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM – Breakfast
    Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to kickstart your day.

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    8:00 AM – Chairman Welcome
    Our Chairman will open the conference with a warm welcome and highlight exciting moments ahead.

     

    8:15 AM - 10:30 AM – Business Session

    Kevin Hume | ThruPut 
    "The Roadmap to Sweet Automation: Steps to Choosing the Right Robotic Solution"
    Discover how to evaluate, select , and implement the automation solution that best fits your operations.

     

    Steve Simmerman | Locus Robotics
    "I Need to Automate...So Now What?"
    Gain a strategic framework for getting started with automation and unlocking its full potential.

     

    10:30 AM - 10:45 AM – Networking Break
    Grab a coffee and connect with fellow attendees.

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    10:45 AM - 12:30 PM – Business Session

    Panel Discussion - "Incorporating Automation into Everyday Practice - Real Life Experiences"

    • Rick Kay, Sweet Candy Company

    • Martjn Tanis, Tanis Inc.

    • Jeff Brown, Sconza Candy Company

    • Kevin Hume, ThruPut

    Join us for a dynamic, real-world conversation with automation experts who have successfully integrated smart technology into everyday operations. Expect practical insights and candid discussion.​

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    Ed Daly | OKTA
    "Protecting the Golden Ticket, You Can Be the Hero"

    Cybersecurity essentials to protect app-drive enterprise ecosystems as well as your personal security.
     

    12:30 PM - 1:30 PM – NCA Luncheon (additional registration and cost)
    Enjoy a delicious lunch and engage in meaningful conversations with industry peers.

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    Dinner on your own – More opportunities to explore the city or dine with fellow conference-goers!

  • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM – Golf Tournament  (additional registration and cost)
    Tee off with industry professionals at Champion sea side course at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar resort in Los Peñasquitos Canyon —your own personal caddy included!

     

    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM – Pickleball Tournament (additional registration)
    We’re excited to bring Pickleball to our activities!  Get your game on and in an exciting and fun tournament.

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    12:30 PM - 2:00 PM – Lunch Buffet (additional registration and cost)
    Delicious lunch with your peers, with plenty of time for networking! (Golf & Pickleball Awards)

     

    5:00 PM - 10:00 PM – Miramar Off-Site Event
    Location: MCAS Miramar

    Participate in an exclusive event at this iconic Marine Corps Air Station, the former home of the Navy's TopGun training school. Enjoy an unforgettable evening.

  • 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM – Breakfast
    Start your final day of the conference with a fresh, energizing breakfast.

     

    8:00 AM - 8:45 AM – WCA Annual Business Meeting
    Catch up on the latest updates and exciting developments within the Western Candy Association.

     

    8:45 AM - 9:30 AM – NCA Updates

    John Downs 

    "NCA Updates: The View from Washington"

     

    9:30 AM - 11:30 AM – Supplier Tabletop
    Discover new products and innovations from top suppliers. This offers a unique opportunity to have direct discussions with candy manufacturer owners and senior leadership teams. It’s a chance to connect, collaborate, and discover new opportunities!

     

    11:30 AM - 12:30 PM – Keynote Speaker

    Colonel R. Erik Herrmann, Commanding Officer MCAS Miramar

    "Leadership & Teamwork"

    Get inspired by Colonel Herrmann's leadership insights and stores from the Marine Air Corps.

     

    6:00 PM - 10:00 PM – Closing Reception and Dinner (8:30 PM - 10:00 PM)
    End the conference on a high note with dinner, music, dancing, and unforgettable conversations.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with the brightest minds in the candy industry, gain valuable knowledge, and have some fun along the way!

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