EDUCATION THEMES & TOPICS
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Click each theme to view the full descrptions and topics to be addressed.
More topics can/will be added over time as issues and opportunites arise.
Last Updated: 01/09/2025
Topics: Shifting Global Markets | Tariffs | North American Trade | China | India
Explore the dynamic relationship between the global economy and the future of the recycled materials industry. Gain insight into the impact of shifting global markets, evolving trade policies, and fluctuating tariffs on the industry’s growth and sustainability. Special emphasis will be placed on North American, Indian, and Chinese trade, highlighting each region’s role in driving innovation, adapting to supply chain disruptions, and fostering international collaboration. Equip yourself with the knowledge needed to navigate economic uncertainties and seize opportunities in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Topics: Supply Chain | EV Transition | Electrification | Infrastructure
Delve into the evolving role of manufacturing in shaping the present and future of the recycled materials industry. Explore critical topics, including supply chain optimization, infrastructure shifts and investments, the transition to electric vehicles (EVs), and the broader shift toward electrification. The sessions will address how advancements in manufacturing technologies and sustainable practices are transforming material recovery, processing, and reuse. Attendees will gain practical insights into leveraging these trends to meet the demands of a greener economy.
Topics: Operations | Safety | Freight/Theft | Fires | Sales/Purchasing | Shredding | Batteries | ESG
Learn best practices critical to the future of the recycled materials industry. Topics include optimizing operations, enhancing safety protocols, sales/purchasing training, and addressing key challenges such as freight theft and recovery, logistics, and fire prevention. Specialized sessions will cover shredding processes, battery handling, and integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles into daily practices. Gain actionable strategies to improve efficiency, drive growth, mitigate risks, and align with sustainability goals while navigating the evolving demands of the industry.
Topics: Sourcing | Development | Retention | Promoting | Training
Learn the critical role of workforce strategies in shaping the future of the recycled materials industry. Explore innovative approaches to sourcing talent, fostering employee development, and enhancing retention through effective engagement and support. The sessions will also focus on promoting career growth within the industry and implementing robust training programs to meet evolving operational and sustainability demands. Leave equipped with practical tools to build and sustain a skilled, motivated workforce capable of driving long-term success in the dynamic recycling sector.
Topics: Analytics | KPIs | Secession Planning | Family Business | CRM
Delve into the business planning strategies vital to the future of the recycled materials industry. Topics include leveraging analytics and key performance indicators (KPIs) for informed decision-making, preparing for succession planning, and navigating the unique dynamics of family-owned businesses. Explore best practices for implementing and optimizing customer relationship management (CRM) systems to enhance operational efficiency and customer engagement. Gain actionable insights to help plan for growth, sustainability, and long-term success.
Topics: Federal | State | Local | Critical Minerals
Explore the pivotal role of advocacy in shaping the future of the recycled materials industry. Gain insights into engaging effectively with federal, state, and local governments to influence policy and regulatory frameworks. The sessions will also emphasize the significance of critical minerals in the global economy and the industry’s role in promoting sustainable sourcing and recycling practices. Leave with strategies to advance industry priorities, strengthen partnerships, and drive positive change through advocacy at all levels.
Topics: Ferrous | Aluminum | Copper | Nickel/Stainless | Plastic | Electronics | Paper | Tire/Rubber
Examine the evolving landscape of materials and their critical role in the future of the recycled materials industry, manufacturing, and the global economy. Topics include market trends and opportunities for ferrous, aluminum, copper, nickel/stainless, plastics, paper, electronics, and tire/rubber materials. Explore how global economic shifts, technological advancements, and sustainability initiatives are reshaping demand and supply dynamics across these sectors. Gain actionable insights for navigating challenges and capitalizing on opportunities in this ever-changing market.
This is media training tailored for professionals in the recycled materials industry. Learn how to effectively communicate industry messages, handle media interviews, and address public perceptions with confidence and clarity. Gain strategies for crafting compelling narratives, managing challenging questions, and highlighting the industry’s vital role in sustainability and the circular economy. Leave equipped to represent your organization and the industry with professionalism and impact.