Following the program, we’ll move into a hands-on networking session featuring the
. Guests will have the unique opportunity to interact with student-built robots and learn how Indiana’s next generation of innovators is already making an impact.
Main Speaker: Carianne Morgan Eaton, Principal Engineer - Robotics Program, Eli Lilly and Company
Cari is a driven and experienced engineer, skilled in troubleshooting, cross-functional collaboration, and data-driven process improvement. After graduation from Purdue University in Electrical Engineering Technology, she has held such roles as a medical device safety engineer, lead engineer – warehouse and logistics, and most recently a global robotics engineer. Cari has led site manufacturing and global initiatives enabling the design, development, and support of automated warehouse systems and mobile robots. Her work has directly contributed to scaling robotics programs across multiple manufacturing sites, improving operational efficiency and safety. Passionate about innovation and mentorship, Cari actively fosters engineering talent and champions inclusive collaboration across disciplines.
Panelists:
Joanna Kalis, Battery Manufacturing Strategy Manager, Ford Motor Company
With almost 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Joanna is a proven leader in the development of manufacturing strategies for multi-platform propulsion systems. She has created and led several high performing teams in response to the ever-changing technical landscape. Joanna’s work emphasizes a balanced approach to manufacturing feasibility, cost efficiency and technology adoption. As a proud University of Michigan graduate, Joanna was nominated and completed Ford Motor Company’s Engineering leadership program. She is currently responsible for strategic alignment and Board approval of Ford’s cell manufacturing and multi-energy battery pack programs.
Kathy MIller – Founder and CEO, MORE 4 Leaders, llc.
Kathy Miller is a recognized senior business executive with a proven track record in developing and leading operations that deliver results. She has led successful business transformations in multiple industries including aerospace and automotive. Her experience comprises leadership of operations $3B+, P&L responsibility, and corporate ownership of various business functions: lean enterprise, quality, strategy deployment, and industrial design. She has a passion for developing organizational cultures that get results based on inclusivity, trust, accountability, and continuous improvement. She coaches manufacturing leaders at all levels and advises businesses in attainment of new levels of performance through proven manufacturing processes, sound leadership principles, and the science of human flourishing.
Jamie Nelson – Vice President, Industrial Sales, Convergix
Jamie Nelson is a dynamic business executive with over 20 years of experience driving growth and transformation in the industrial automation sector. He partners with business leaders to navigate complex operational challenges through advanced automation technologies—optimizing production, reducing risk, and enhancing efficiency. A passionate people leader, Jamie thrives on developing high-performing teams and empowering individuals to exceed their potential. His leadership style blends strategic vision with a deep commitment to mentorship, fostering cultures of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Jamie brings a unique blend of engineering insight, sales acumen, and thought leadership to every conversation—making him a powerful voice in shaping the future of manufacturing.
Nicole Shidler, Director of Operations, Caterpillar, Inc
Nicole Shidler is currently the Director of Operations for Caterpillar’s Lafayette Engine Center. In this role, she provides operations leadership to 1200+ employees. The Large Engines business is responsible for manufacturing Caterpillar’s biggest engines used to power oil and gas, electric power, marine, rail, and Cat machine applications around the world. Nicole began her career at Caterpillar in 2000 and throughout her 25-year career, she’s held various positions in supply chain, project management, and operations in multiple locations. Nicole is a graduate of Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN and Mercer University in Atlanta, GA, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and a Master of Business Administration degree, respectively.
Moderator: Heidi Melton, President-Elect, Women & Hi Tech
Heidi is an accomplished revenue leader with a proven track record of driving strategic growth, market expansion, and high-performance sales teams. A Purdue University graduate, she has led multimillion-dollar revenue initiatives and currently serves as President-Elect of Women & Hi Tech. Heidi was named the 2024 Emerging Leader in Manufacturing by the Indiana Manufacturers Association and is among the less than 1% of women to earn a National General Contractors License. Known for her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to advancing women in STEM, Heidi continues to make a lasting impact across the manufacturing and technology sectors.
