Recorded: June 10, 2026
Maximizing Operational Performance: Aligning Equipment, Processes, and People
As rising costs, labor shortages, and increasing production demands put pressure on both food manufacturers and equipment suppliers, many organizations are investing in equipment, automation, and process improvements to stay competitive. Increasingly, operators are recognizing that these investments deliver their full value only when paired with the right approach to workforce development.
In this session, Dave Gregory, Director of Learning & Development at Weber Inc., shared an operator-informed perspective on how companies are strengthening the connection between equipment, processes, and the people responsible for running them. Drawing on over 30 years of experience across operations, HR, and learning, Dave discussed what led to this shift, what proved more difficult than expected, and what organizations should do differently to improve performance and profitability.
The discussion also explored how organizations are shifting toward modern learning approaches that match how today’s workforce, especially younger generations, build true competencies versus absorbing information. Drawing on research and real-world outcomes, Dave examined how these approaches can improve time to productivity, machine availability, employee confidence, and overall operational performance across both production and equipment environments.
Viewers will learn how to:
- Align performance metrics to the behaviors that drive results
- Identify where workforce capability gaps are limiting equipment and process investments
- Assess whether current training approaches are building true competency or just delivering information
- Develop a plan to improve time to productivity for internal teams and end users
- Understand how equipment manufacturers can better support customers in improving performance
Time: 43 minutes

Dave Gregory
Director of Learning and Development at Weber, Inc.
At Weber Inc., a subsidiary of Weber Food Technologies, Dave champions a shift from “check-the-box” training to productivity-driven learning. He leads initiatives that accelerate speed to proficiency, strengthen leadership capability, and directly support Weber’s brand promise of delivering the Perfect Portion for customers.
Dave specializes in translating strategy into execution through evidence-based learning, adult learning principles, and behavior-anchored performance models. His work spans leadership development, technical capability building, talent management, and organizational performance.
Our team is a dedicated mix of professionals, creative thinkers, talented designers, industry experts and partners who are passionate about making learning and development engaging, fun and effective. From the leadership team and throughout the organization, we are committed to driving positive change in the workforce.
Protect your equipment investment with a safety-first culture
More About WorkForge
Who is WorkForge?
WorkForge is a comprehensive eLearning solution designed to elevate employee knowledge, retention, and professional development through engaging and interactive digital content. What sets us apart is our unique “one-stop shop” approach, encompassing off-the-shelf learning content, customizable options, a robust Learning Management System (LMS), and consulting services – all seamlessly integrated under a single vendor.
What problems does WorkForge solve?
The food manufacturing industry is currently grappling with significant workforce challenges, chiefly stemming from an aging workforce and a shortage of skilled labor. A critical skills gap is also on the rise, propelled by rapid technological advancements necessitating specialized knowledge in automation and digital technologies.
In response, manufacturers find themselves compelled to invest in their workforce – not solely for compliance reasons but as a strategic move to attract and retain talent. Enter WorkForge Learning and Development (L&D) solutions, designed to empower manufacturers with the skills essential for safe and effective job performance.
- Navigating Compliance
- Uniformity Across Shifts
- Prioritizing Health and Safety
- Skills Evolution
- Knowledge Retention
- Engaging Workforce
- Leadership Development
- Impact Assessment
- Cultural Inclusivity
What solutions does WorkForge offer?
WorkForge offers a comprehensive suite of Learning and Development (L&D) solutions. From preexisting content to custom-designed modules, a cutting-edge Learning Management System, and expert consulting services, WorkForge covers every aspect of the manufacturing employee lifecycle.
- Pathways
A library of 900+ modules organized into pathways covering critical skills for onboarding, upskilling, and introducing new skills. - Custom Content
WorkForge’s instructional design and development teams create bespoke L&D content tailored to your manufacturing training needs. - Learning Management System
For those without an existing LMS, WorkForge offers a scalable, customizable solution designed for the manufacturing market. - Technology Enablement
WorkForge provides consulting services for seamless deployment of L&D solutions and LMS.
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