Description

DATE: June 27, 2025

TIME: 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.

COST: $30 Members

$45 Future Members

LOCATION: The S. Dale High Leadership Center

What to Expect!

Join us for an engaging conversation with rising stars in the manufacturing and industrial sector who are reshaping the future of multiple industries. Hear directly from young professionals about the impact of being part of NextGen and Young Professionals' groups and how these networks support career development, build leadership skills, and foster innovation. This event offers practical insights for employers looking to create or strengthen their own internal networks for emerging talent.

Meet the Speakers!

Austin Benner
Director, Strategic Services at The Wenger Group

Austin currently works at The Wenger Group (TWG) as the Director of Strategic Services where he provides leadership and management in partnerships with other related agricultural organizations with the purpose of growing their sales and infrastructure. Austin has served many agricultural organizations and is continually impressed with the community and support that surrounds this industry in Pennsylvania.

Prior to serving in this role Austin worked as the Director of Swine and Poultry Feed Sales for Wenger Feeds where he had the responsibility for managing poultry and swine sales activities, execution of strategies, and customer relationships.  Prior to TWG, Austin held roles as a Loan Officer for Horizon Farm Credit and was a General Production Manager for Tyson Foods, Inc., in Shelbyville, TN.

Austin earned his bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness Management from Penn State University. He currently resides in Silver Spring with his wife and four children and they attend are actively involved at Calvary Bible Church in Mount Joy, PA.

Abby Wurzbach
Business Solutions Specialist at MANTEC

Abby has always been a people person who enjoys bringing groups together, coordinating engaging events, and connecting people to the right resources that help them grow. Since joining the team at MANTEC, a non-profit organization serving small- and medium-sized manufacturing companies in South Central PA, she’s had countless opportunities to use those skills and passions to help manufacturers and their people achieve excellence.

A few months into her time at MANTEC, Abby discovered a need amongst manufacturing companies and founded the Young Manufacturers Network in February of 2024, a group dedicated to upskilling and retaining young talent in the manufacturing industry. As President of YMN, Abby oversees a team of eight Advisory Board members who help create events, content, and other opportunities to develop, mentor, and support the next generation of manufacturing.

When she’s not spending time listening to manufacturers and helping them grow, you can find Abby leading the LCBC York Young Adult group, farming on her family’s Scottish Highland Cattle farm, and spending time painting, playing tennis, or hanging out with friends.

Brian Werntz Jr
Outside Sales Representative at Builders FirstSource

I began my professional journey in mortgage banking in 2011, where I developed a strong foundation in finance, customer service, and relationship management. In 2023, I transitioned into sales with Builder’s First Source, a leading provider of building materials for residential and commercial construction. In my current role, I collaborate closely with builders, contractors, and project managers to deliver tailored material solutions that drive successful construction projects. My background in finance, paired with my growing interest in construction, allows me to offer a unique, results-oriented perspective in this dynamic and fast-paced industry.

As an active member of the Lancaster Building Industry Association – NextGen, I have had the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, expand my leadership capabilities, and deepen my industry knowledge. Through networking events and workshops, I have enhanced my leadership skills and broadened my professional network across diverse sectors. These experiences have not only contributed to my success at Builder’s First Source but have also enabled me to make meaningful contributions to both my company and the local business community.

Alex Vazquez
Operations Manager at Sahd Metal Recycling

Since graduating from Lancaster Catholic High School in 2020, I have been a dedicated member of the team at Sahd Metal Recycling in Columbia, PA. What began as a summer job cutting metal with a torch quickly turned into a career fueled by curiosity, hard work, and a passion for the recycling industry. Over the past several years, I’ve gained hands-on experience in nearly every area of the business, from running heavy machinery to managing production schedules, and even some marketing which has deepened my understanding of both operations, leadership and sales within the scrap industry.

In addition to my operational roles, I also host Sahd Metal Recycling’s “Dumpster Talk” podcast, where I connect with industry experts and team members to share insights and promote sustainable metal recycling. This platform allows me to contribute to the company’s growth and innovation by fostering open communication and forward-thinking ideas. As an emerging leader, I am committed to driving positive change within the company and helping shape the future of sustainable recycling in our region.

Meet the Moderator!

Maya Fenner
Workforce & Education Initiatives Coordinator at Lancaster Chamber

Maya serves as the Workforce & Education Initiatives Coordinator at the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce. In this role, she supports business-education partnerships and workforce readiness initiatives that help K-12 students explore career pathways. Maya also oversees programming for the Chamber’s Young Professionals Network, fostering connection and professional growth among emerging leaders in the region. Through her work, she is committed to building meaningful opportunities that prepare the next generation and strengthen Lancaster’s talent pipeline.

What is the Manufacturing Roundtable?

The Manufacturing Roundtable is your opportunity to connect with industry professionals and engage in a meaningful, confidential discussion about the challenges impacting the industry. It is also a chance to offer your own feedback and share your experiences with other manufacturing professionals as we discuss best practices and strategies for addressing relevant issues. You'll walk away equipped with practical insight to apply within your own company.

Thank you to our Co-Presenting Sponsors: