Ask Me Anything: Leadership Journeys & Lessons Learned with Erik Brainard & Dana Summerour
Join us for the first session in FPSA’s new AMA (Ask Me Anything) series — designed to spotlight the real stories, challenges, and insights that...
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DEFEAT HUNGER is one of FPSA’s most powerful expressions of industry compassion. Created in partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository,
this year - round campaign brings our members together to combat food insecurity through volunteerism, fundraising, and hands - on service.
DEFEAT HUNGER is one of FPSA’s most powerful expressions of industry compassion. Created in partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository, this year-round campaign brings our members together to combat food insecurity through volunteerism, fundraising, and hands-on service.
The Food Production Solutions Association (FPSA) is a dynamic community of food producers, manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. As the only association bringing together the entire food industry across all segments and all those involved in the food production process, we work to create a collaborative environment that brings together industry leaders, experts and innovators. Through meaningful education, industry engagement, and philanthropy, FPSA and our members are shaping the future of food production.
3 min read
FPSA Staff : Nov 5, 2025 8:00:00 AM
McLean, Virginia —The Food Production Solutions Association (FPSA) is thrilled to announce three major developments that will enhance member engagement and strengthen connections across the food and beverage industry.
FPSA Introduces Connect: A New Online Member Community Platform
FPSA is launching FPSA Connect, an innovative online community platform designed to keep members engaged and connected year-round. Connect provides a dynamic digital space where members can exchange ideas, share resources, and participate in meaningful discussions across FPSA's networks, councils, and topic-focused groups.
"Connect represents our commitment to fostering collaboration beyond our in-person events," said Chris Lyons, President and CEO of FPSA. "This platform will make it easier than ever for members to tap into the collective knowledge of our community, find solutions to industry challenges, and build relationships that drive innovation forward."
The platform enables members to engage in member-driven conversations, access specialized resources, and collaborate with peers across different segments of the food production industry. Connect strengthens the foundation of FPSA's councils and networks, which serve as key drivers of membership value and helps FPSA have a deeper understanding of issues impacting specific food industry segments.
New FPSA Website Delivers Enhanced User Experience
In addition to launching Connect, FPSA is unveiling a completely redesigned website featuring improved navigation, modern design, and enhanced functionality. The updated site makes it simpler for members and industry professionals to access educational resources, register for events, and explore the full range of FPSA offerings.
The refreshed website reflects FPSA's ongoing commitment to providing exceptional service to its members and the broader food production community. Visitors will find streamlined access to FPSA's extensive library of educational content, council and network information, and industry news.
Registration Now Open for FSX 2026
FPSA is excited to announce that registration is now open for the Food Solutions Exchange & Conference (FSX 2026), taking place March 11-13, 2026, at The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, California.
FSX has become the premier gathering place for C-Suite food brands, processors, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and service providers to connect, learn, and drive business growth. The conference's intimate environment facilitates meaningful conversations and collaborative problem-solving that can't be found at other industry events.
FSX 2026 will feature an exceptional lineup of industry leaders and thought-provoking sessions designed to address the most pressing challenges facing food and beverage processors and manufacturers today. The conference kicks off with a panel discussion featuring Kimberli Carroll, President and CEO of Ruiz Foods, and Bob Grote, CEO of Grote Company, exploring "The Growing Pains of Success: Why Risk Scales Faster Than Revenue." This opening session examines how companies can navigate growth responsibly while maintaining stability and culture.
On day two, Jake Hall—known as The Manufacturing Millennial—will lead a general session and interactive roundtable on "The Future of Manufacturing: Technology & Workforce," exploring how automation, AI, and workforce trends are reshaping competitive advantage in food production.
The conference will also honor Caviness Beef Packers and its leadership team with the prestigious Richard L. Knowlton Award, recognizing their outstanding business leadership and community commitment.
FSX 2026 concludes with Dr. Chris Kuehl, Managing Director of Armada Corporate Intelligence, delivering insights on "Trade Turbulence and the Road Ahead," translating complex global trade dynamics and their impact on food and equipment manufacturing into practical takeaways for industry leaders.
"FSX continues to evolve as the essential gathering for leaders in our industry," added Lyons. "We're bringing together all three key audiences—food producers, OEMs, and service providers—in an environment that encourages real relationship-building, learning and innovation. This year's speaker lineup reflects the caliber of expertise and forward-thinking leadership that defines our community."
Attendees are encouraged to register early and book hotel accommodations to secure their spot at this highly anticipated event. Registration is available at: https://cvent.me/27Pzlr
For more information on FPSA's scholarship programs and other initiatives, please visit https://fpsa.org/scholarships/
Media Contact:
Janessa Kamps
Sr. Manager, Marketing Design & Communications
Food Production Solutions Association
jkamps@fpsa.org
About FPSA
The Food Production Solutions Association (FPSA) is a dynamic community of food producers, manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. As the only association bringing together the entire food industry across all segments and all those involved in the food production process, we work to create a collaborative environment that brings together industry leaders, experts and innovators. Through meaningful education, industry engagement, and philanthropy, FPSA and our members are shaping the future of food production.
Join us for the first session in FPSA’s new AMA (Ask Me Anything) series — designed to spotlight the real stories, challenges, and insights that...