The Ohio Valley Chapter educational and sporting event delivered a fresh experience this year. As attendance grew, the OVC board reorganized the schedule. First, they held the sporting events before the educational sessions. In addition, they introduced a new shooting event for attendees who prefer the range over the golf course.
New Shooting Event Adds Variety
While golfers played at Kensington Golf Club, a group led by Brennan Mai of Hobart Brothers (https://www.hobartbrothers.com) visited On Target Outfitters (https://www.ontargetoutfitters.com). There, participants tested their skills with guidance from retired police officer Jeff Solic.
This first-time event featured a variety of firearms and strong participation. As a result, organizers hope to establish it as a future sanctioned OVC activity.
Record-Breaking Golf Performance
At the same time, golfers competed on a challenging course. The winning team—Tom Kern of Cond at (https://www.condatcorp.com), Paul Douwes of Advaris (https://www.advaris.com), and Brett Hambleton of Select Arc (https://www.select-arc.com)—set a course record. They finished at 16 under par, with three eagles and ten birdies.
Notably, Chad Betris of Glen Carbide (https://www.glencarbide.com) delivered a standout moment. He scored an eagle with a 50-yard shot, helping his team secure second place.
Educational Sessions Deliver Value
Later, attendees joined technical presentations from industry experts. Jeff Danaher of Abbott Furnace Company (https://www.abbottfurnace.com) explained key furnace optimization factors, including time, temperature, and atmosphere.
Next, Jim Miller of Scientific Forming Technologies (https://www.deform.com) demonstrated simulation tools for the wire drawing process. He connected deformation, tooling stress, and material flow across multiple industries.
Finally, Paul Douwes of Advaris stepped in as a substitute speaker. He introduced smart manufacturing strategies that align administration, production, and logistics for improved scheduling and efficiency.
Networking and Industry Engagement
The Ohio Valley Chapter educational and sporting event continues to attract both new and experienced professionals. Attendees value the balance of education, networking, and hands-on activities without the formality of traditional plant visits.
Sponsors Support Event Success
The chapter recognized key sponsors, including Bechem Lubes; Blachford Corporation; CONDAT Corp. (https://www.condatcorp.com); Die Quip; GEON; George A. Mitchell Company; Premier Wire Die (https://www.premierwiredie.com); Rainbow Rubber & Plastics; SIKORA (https://www.sikora.net); and Wire Tech.
Save the Date for 2023
Mark your calendar for the next Ohio Valley Chapter event on August 23, 2023.
