Speakers
2025 Keynote Speaker:
Oren Cass
Executive Director, American Compass
Author, Thought Leader, Policy Strategist
As the 10th Annual Valley Made Manufacturing Summit celebrated a decade of industry growth and collaboration, we were proud to welcome a bold national voice in economic and workforce strategy—Oren Cass.
Oren Cass is the Executive Director of American Compass, a think tank he founded to promote a healthy, resilient economy that serves workers, families, and communities. A former advisor to Mitt Romney’s presidential campaign and a widely published author, Cass has earned national recognition for his insights on labor, education, and industrial policy.
His book, The Once and Future Worker, has shaped conversations on workforce development and economic renewal. His work is frequently cited by national media, and his policy ideas have influenced leaders across the political spectrum.
This year’s keynote and fireside chat brought together two visionary leaders – Oren Cass, founder and chief economist of American Compass, and Pete Weber, longtime community champion and founder of the Heartland Chapter of the New California Coalition.
Cass challenged traditional economic thinking, arguing that America’s prosperity depends on rebuilding its capacity to make things, not just innovate or consume them. He spoke on the need for strong industrial policy, domestic production, and workforce investment to restore middle-class opportunity. Weber guided the discussion with his hallmark insight and regional perspective, highlighting how collaboration and civic leadership can drive meaningful change.
Together, they left attendees energized, motivated, and ready to apply these lessons to strengthen the Central Valley’s workforce and industries.
KEYNOTE SUPPORTERS:
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