Press release submitted on behalf of AMBA.
From May 12 through May 14, the American Mold Builders Association (AMBA) wrapped its Conference 2026, once again delivering a dynamic program that brought together nearly 180 mold builders, suppliers, emerging professionals, and manufacturing leaders for an energizing experience centered on innovation, collaboration, and growth within the industry.
From the welcome reception and supplier trade fair to the closing awards celebration, attendees experienced three days of networking, collaboration, and forward-thinking discussion. General sessions encouraged industry-wide connection, while breakout sessions focused on technologies and best practices centered on the use of AI on the shop floor.
AMBA Executive Director Troy Nix kicked off the conference with his powerful keynote, “What Would a Brave Person Do?” The presentation encouraged attendees to embrace challenges boldly and continue striving for excellence within the industry, reinforcing AMBA’s belief that “America Is What America Makes.”
Additional keynote speakers challenged attendees to rethink leadership, resilience, and human connection. Mark Scharenbroich emphasized the power of authentic relationships through his renowned “Nice Bike” message, while Mike Lee delivered practical strategies for resilience, stress management, and high-performance decision-making.
Attendees also received valuable updates on legislative and economic developments impacting the manufacturing sector from Omar Nashashibi of Inside the Beltway Solutions. Nashashibi’s presentation provided insight into current trade discussions, tariffs, and regulatory activity affecting mold manufacturers and the broader tooling industry.
The conference also celebrated outstanding achievements within the mold manufacturing community through the 2026 Awards Ceremony, which recognized exceptional professionals and organizations that continue to elevate and strengthen the industry. AMBA Mold Builder and Tooling Trailblazer Awards (each endowed with a $5,000 scholarship from Progressive Components) went to David LaGrow, Maximum Mold (Maximum Mold Group of Companies), Benton Harbor, MI, and R&D Leverage (an Alder Industrial Solutions Group), Lee’s Summit, MO, respectively. AMBA Rising Star Award (endowed with a $2,000 scholarship from INCOE) went to Edward Walsh, Westminster Tool, Inc., Plainfield, CT.
More than anything, AMBA Conference 2026 reinforced the importance of bringing the industry together to learn, collaborate, and grow stronger as a community. For those who were unable to attend this year, the opportunity was unmistakable. The AMBA Conference continues to be a premier destination for industry leaders seeking meaningful connections, valuable insight, and innovative strategies that drive long-term success. Next year’s conference, March 16-18, 2027, Grand Rapids, MI, promises another unforgettable experience that no mold manufacturing professional will want to miss. Learn more about AMBA 2026 award winners at www.amba.org.
About the AMBA
The American Mold Builders Association (AMBA) is the only organization dedicated to strengthening the competitive advantage of U.S. mold builders. Through workforce development, networking, benchmarking, and industry promotion, AMBA equips members with valuable resources, cost-saving programs, increased visibility to mold buyers, and collaborative problem-solving opportunities. To learn more about AMBA membership and initiatives, visit www.amba.org.