Manufacturing and logistics professionals met at Norco College’s new STEM Center to review the possible applications of artificial intelligence in manufacturing processes as well as business practices, presented by Bryant Baek of Bettercast AI through a partnership of the Organization of Distribution and Manufacturing and the Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire. Norco College is among the few educational institutions to offer industrial automation programming for students and professionals.

Norco, CA: The Organization of Distribution and Manufacturing (ODAM), in collaboration with the Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE) and Norco College, hosted a special networking meeting on March 4, 2026 at the newly opened Norco College STEM Center. The invitation-only event brought together nearly 30 manufacturing and distribution professionals from across Southern California to explore how artificial intelligence is already transforming operations across the sector.

The event featured a keynote presentation by MCIE member Bryant Baek, CEO and Co-Founder of Bettercast AI, who shared real-world examples of how manufacturers and distributors are using artificial intelligence to strengthen supply chains, optimize production, and improve profitability.

During the session, Baek discussed a range of emerging AI applications in manufacturing and distribution, including improving purchasing decisions and supply chain visibility, strengthening quality control systems, optimizing product formulations, and using predictive analytics to anticipate production demand and reduce costly bullwhip effects across supply chains. He also emphasized the growing importance of data science and analytics education as manufacturers adopt increasingly sophisticated technologies.

“Artificial intelligence is already delivering measurable improvements across manufacturing and distribution—from smarter purchasing decisions to predictive production planning,” Baek noted during the presentation. “Companies that invest in data and analytics capabilities today will have a significant competitive advantage in the years ahead.”

In addition to the presentation, attendees toured the new Norco College STEM Center laboratories and learned about the college’s Automation Certificate Program, which prepares students for careers in modern manufacturing environments that increasingly rely on robotics, automation systems, and advanced digital technologies. The program reflects an important partnership between regional manufacturers and local higher education institutions working together to develop the next generation of skilled technical talent.

Representatives from MCIE also shared information about the organization’s regional manufacturing modernization initiatives and workforce partnerships designed to help Inland Empire manufacturers adopt new technologies and remain competitive in global markets.

Manufacturers interested in improving their operations can also take advantage of MCIE’s manufacturing modernization program, which offers no-cost technical assessments and customized modernization roadmaps developed by veteran industry engineering consultants. These assessments help identify opportunities to improve production efficiency, technology adoption, quality systems, workforce capabilities, and access to incentives and capital resources.

Customized modernization assessments and roadmaps can cost upwards of $10,000, but through current regional initiatives these services are available at no cost to manufacturers through August 2026.

Those interested in the program may learn more with a no-obligation a 30-minute phone or online meeting to learn more about your operations and discuss how this process can be tailored specifically to your organization. Following this initial consultation, manufacturers moving forward with the program will have the opportunity to schedule their free 2–3 hour on-site assessment with veteran industry engineering consultants reviewing production efficiency, technology gaps, quality systems, energy use, workforce needs, market positioning, and access to incentives and capital resources. This assessment will then be used to generate the free, personalized efficiency roadmap.

Customized assessments and roadmaps can cost upwards of $10,000, but through the Catalyst Grant, these services are available at no cost to all manufacturers through August 2026.

“The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire is proud to bring this kind of value directly to manufacturers through the Catalyst Grant,” said Dr. Wallace Brithinee, Board President of MCIE. “Manufacturers rarely have access to no-cost support that delivers this level of measurable impact. These improvements will strengthen our regional supply chain and increase Inland Empire manufacturers’ profitability for years to come.”

For more information or to schedule a 30-minute introductory call, contact:
Sandra Sisco — ssisco@mfgcouncilie.com | Mobile: 951-264-0889

The Manufacturers’ Council (MCIE) represents manufacturers in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Their efforts include promoting workforce development programs and policies for the region, as well as educating the public on the modern face of manufacturing in the region and the skilled trade opportunities that offer rewarding, high-wage careers.

MCIE’s membership comprises professionals, students, community members, and corporate leadership with interests in manufacturing in Inland Southern California.

The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE) supports education and career training on behalf of manufacturers throughout the region, offering programming and expertise in a variety of topics including innovative workforce solutions. Visit http://www.mfgcouncilie.com or our Linktree at linktr.ee/iemanufacturing for more information on careers, events, and membership.