2025 Thought Series

We Make Things: Building Better Communities, Businesses and Teams will showcase conversations with over two dozen of the region’s most influential leaders in tech, business, design, workforce development and beyond.

West Michigan is famous for making products, but our expertise also extends to building better communities, companies and teams. From civic projects transforming our communities to AI-driven hiring platforms reshaping the workforce, visionary leaders will share ideas that are changing the way we work and live.

After each half day of sessions, attendees can go behind-the-scenes at some of Grand Rapids' most innovative companies. Each site visit includes a complimentary networking lunch and tour hosted by leaders in the spaces where their ideas come to life.

April 15 & 16 at Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University