The Best of 2025 Decision Compass Calls
MLC’s special interest Decision Compass calls deliver real insights from manufacturing leaders
The MLC’s Decision Compass meetings continue to offer members a space to cut through the noise surrounding digital transformation and Manufacturing 4.0. These special interest group sessions delivered practical, unfiltered guidance on the issues shaping modern manufacturing. From data governance and autonomous operations to supply chain evolution and circularity, Decision Compass calls are a trusted forum for leaders seeking clarity, community and actionable next steps.
This best-of selection highlights four standout conversations from 2025. Explore how companies are building data-literate workforces, deploying smarter automation, leveraging emerging technologies to strengthen supply networks, and advancing circular business models that deliver both sustainability and competitive advantage. Whether you’re refining your strategy or looking for inspiration from leaders navigating similar challenges, these sessions capture the insights that matter most to today’s manufacturing decision-makers.
Note: These recordings are archived in the MLC content library, an exclusive benefit for MLC members. Members can log in to view the recordings. Nonmembers will be asked to complete an information form to gain access.
DC Group: Data Mastery, Governance and Analytics
Data Literacy in Manufacturing
Topic leaders: Curt Winegar, Senior Data Analytics Strategist, Pella Corp.
Ada Safak, Advanced Analytics Analyst, Worthington Enterprises
In this panel moderated by the MLC’s Steven Moskowitz, Ph.D., our guests discuss what data literacy is, why it is such an important part of an overall data program, what works, and what can be improved in current deployments.
DC Group: Automation and Operational Excellence
Autonomous Optimization in Manufacturing
Topic leader: Maurice O’ Brien, Director, Industrial Automation Motion and Power Control, Analog Devices
Automation is becoming smarter, more connected, and capable of making more decisions autonomously. New architectures and technologies like decentralized control, sensor fusion, and edge AI enable machines to work more efficiently and create valuable OEE data sets for continuous process improvements. Join us to discover how Analog Devices technologies are enabling the next step towards smarter, more autonomous factories.
DC Group: Resilient Supply Networks
The Role of Emerging Technologies in Supply Chain Evolution
Topic leaders: Jonathan Whitaker, Managing Director of Supply Chain Consulting, NTT DATA and Steve Sarbey, Director Supply Chain Consulting, NTT DATA
To navigate the transformation that emerging technologies are bringing to supply chain management, organizations should begin with proven use cases. To successfully build a roadmap for technology integration, it is essential to identify key pain points, select appropriate technologies, and ensure continuous alignment with strategic objectives.
DC Group: Sustainability and the Circular Economy
Breaking Linear Models: Saint-Gobain Circular Economy Solutions
Topic leader: Anirban Ghosh, Senior Manager of Circular Economy Business Development and Strategy, Saint-Gobain
In this case study, learn how Saint-Gobain Circular Economy Solutions is working to identify new circularity growth areas, incubate new waste-to-value business models, and support and develop their circularity roadmaps, specific projects, reporting and foundational competencies
About the author:
Jeff Puma is Content Director for the Manufacturing Leadership Council