Stefan Hartmann is a research associate at the Fraunhofer Institute for Technical Mechatronics IEM in Paderborn. His research focuses on digital transformation, process management, and the establishment and implementation of artificial intelligence in the production environment. A key aspect of his work is managing the flagship project Data Factory.NRW.

Felix Schulte is responsible for the construction and innovation of extrusion blow molding machines at BBM. He graduated with a Master of Science in mechanical engineering, specializing in lightweight construction and plastics in Paderborn. After being deputy head of construction, he has become CTO at BBM.

The Manufacturers Association of Israel, also known as the Manufacturers Association of Israel (MAI), is an umbrella organization that has represented the interests of industry in Israel for over 100 years. The association comprises more than 1800 members who are responsible for over 90% of the country's total industrial production.

The MAI plays a central role in various areas, including defense, immigration and support for remote regions. It also invests heavily in education and the community. The association represents employers to the government and the Histadrut labor federation to improve business conditions and promote the development of Israeli industry.



Gal Menaged is a prominent business leader, international software executive, and strategic investor with a global footprint. Over the past two decades, he has held senior positions at top-tier firms such as Deloitte and played a pivotal role in high-impact M&A deals and cross-border growth strategies. As CEO of PRODAC Systems, he leads one of the industry’s most innovative providers of manufacturing intelligence solutions. Renowned for his ability to connect ecosystems, Gal actively empowers Israeli companies to expand into the German market, driving strategic partnerships, scalable growth, and long-term value. 

Erwin Siegel brings a rare blend of hands-on manufacturing knowledge and cutting-edge AI expertise. At Plataine, he helps manufacturers harness AI and Industrial IoT to optimize operations, reduce waste, and drive measurable ROI. From aerospace to automotive, Erwin works closely with industry leaders to implement intelligent scheduling automation, predictive analytics, and digital traceability solutions.



Dr Christian Temath has been managing director of the competence platform KI.NRW since September 2020. KI.NRW is the central contact point for artificial intelligence (AI) in North Rhine-Westphalia. At the Fraunhofer IAIS in Sankt Augustin, he and his team are working on establishing the "AI made in NRW" brand and strengthening the technological sovereignty of North Rhine-Westphalia. A PhD in Business Informatics, he has many years of experience in management consulting in the field of technology as well as in the practical application of AI technologies at an international e-commerce company.  

Gabriele Tabach is the Head of the Tel Aviv Office of NRW.Global Business, the trade and investment agency of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, which supports companies in expanding to and from NRW. At the same time, she works for the German-Israeli Chamber of Commerce and Trade in Tel Aviv. 

Florian Schnitzler leads the Start-up unit & Israel at NRW.Global Business, the trade and investment agency for North Rhine-Westphalia. The agency provides tailored services for businesses looking to expand globally or establish a presence in NRW, offering support at every development stage, spanning from export to investment.





Florian holds dual master's degrees in Science, specializing in Global Business, SME management, and innovation management from German and French universities. He is experienced in digital-focused project and event management, with expertise in organizing international business delegations, market entry strategies, and content creation