Meet the Organization Shaping Manufacturing R&D

The Innovation Research Interchange (IRI) operates as the innovation division of the National Association of Manufacturers. Founded in 1938 and brought under NAM management in 2022, it serves as a neutral, noncompetitive meeting ground for innovation and R&D leaders across the manufacturing ecosystem to discuss best practices, help each other advance their capabilities and shape the future of manufacturing innovation.

The IRI provides professional development at both the individual and team level through workshops, bootcamps and more. It also provides strategic resources, including access to the Research-Technology Management journal, regular analyses of trends in innovation and R&D, and an informative podcast covering topics from sustainable chemicals development to patent law in AI.

Upcoming Events and Programs

The IRI directs manufacturing professionals to several key gatherings. The Innovating the Future event is scheduled for December 2-3 in Orlando, Florida, with a focus on emerging technologies and artificial intelligence as innovation leaders discuss how their organizations are adopting and improving the latest tools.

A major summit is also on the calendar. The IRI Innovators Summit will be held May 19-21, 2027, in Cleveland, Ohio, convening innovation, R&D, and business leaders to discuss and explore manufacturing R&D's rapid changes in technology, workforce and much more.

For leadership development, the IRI offers a specific executive program. The five-day Shaping Innovation Leaders program will run June 14-18, 2027, at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, aimed at advancing promising R&D leaders who need coaching and an introduction to other essential business areas, from finance to law, to transform into game-changing executives.

Digital Resources and Recognition

A suite of digital content is available for ongoing learning, including podcasts and webinars. Recent highlights include a webinar with Albert Director of AI/ML Jonathan Welch covering real-world results from AI usage for R&D, and a podcast with Duane Morris partners Brian Pandya and Dan Tarr explaining the intricacies of patent law in AI.

The group also administers an awards program. The IRI Innovation Excellence Awards honor influential innovations and individuals in the industry, recognizing the creativity that benefits our society. Nominations for the 2027 awards will open October 1.

Industry Endorsement

Senior figures in manufacturing attest to the IRI's value. Cargill Chief Technology Officer Florian Schattenmann called it an invaluable resource. "The IRI has been an invaluable resource for helping us stay ahead of emerging trends and connect with a trusted network of innovation leaders across industries," Schattenmann said. He added, "Through IRI, we gain perspectives and relationships that would be difficult to develop anywhere else, making it a critical partner in advancing our innovation strategy."

The organization's many offerings are detailed on its website.