2026 International Maha Fluid Power Conference: Keynote talks: abstracts and biographies

K01: Trends in Actuation for Aerospace

By: Jean-Charles Mare (INSA Toulouse, France)

When: Tuesday 8 September 2026 (Day 1), 13:15-14:45 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Jim Van De Ven

Order: talk 1 of 3, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: On basis of the author's experience, this keynote aims at taking the stock of the evolution and future of actuation for airplanes, helicopters and launchers. It starts by introducing the specificity of the aerospace domain in terms of market, needs and constraints for safety-critical actuation (flight controls, landing gears and engines). Then, the candidate actuation concepts are reviewed, with both considerations to incremental and step changes. The trends are addressed for Power-by-Pipe and Power-by-Wire architectures, without forgetting to show how they call for new equipment or components. Finally, the main challenges are listed and discussed, highlighting the opportunities offered by the fluid power domain to serve the future of aerospace actuation.

Speaker biography: Jean-Charles Mare is Emeritus Professor at Institut Clément Ader - INSA in Toulouse, France. He was recruited at INSA Toulouse to teach mechanics and controlled mechanical systems. Between 2001 and 2008, he has directed the Mechanical Engineering department. In 2005, he co-initiated a a new engineering degree in Systems Engineering of Technological Systems. In parallel to his teaching activity, Jean-Charles Mare prepared his French Doctorat d'Etat about the modelling, simulation, identification and control of electrohydaulic actuators. He applied his work to safety-critical aerospace actuation. His research is centered on the system-level, addressing architecting, preliminary power sizing and control design, and virtual prototyping. Since 2000, J-C. Mare contributed to numerous national and European projects for the more electrical aircraft. As a member of the steering committee of SAE A-6 (Aerospace Actuation, Control and Fluid Power Systems), he contributes to the issuing of reference technical documents. From 2001 to 2025, J-C. Mare organized in Toulouse the international conference on Recent Advances in Aerospace Actuation Systems and Components. He is also the author of Aerospace Actuators, a book series in 3 volumes.

K02: Digitalization in Fluid Power

By: Jurgen Weber (TU Dresden, Germany)

When: Tuesday 8 September 2026 (Day 1), 13:15-14:45 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Jim Van De Ven

Order: talk 2 of 3, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: Fluid power is a key technology of mobile machinery, and large amounts of data are generated across the entire lifecycle, from static product descriptions through design and simulation data to operation, maintenance and condition data. However, this information often remains isolated in different formats and systems, and its potential remains unused. The collaborative project Fluid 4.0 closed this gap by developing digital solutions for fluid power in a cross-industry format based on the Asset Administration Shell (AAS), with its standardized descriptions, predefined submodels and various means of connectivity. Focusing on mobile-machinery examples, we demonstrate how the AAS can be utilized throughout the product lifecycle and turn data into value in its various phases, from engineering through commissioning and operation to recycling. Across all these phases, the full value of this cross-industry, cross-manufacturer approach can be unlocked through the joint commitment of all stakeholder along the lifecycle and with this contribution, the concept will reach its full potential.

Speaker biography: Jürgen Weber Jürgen received his PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering at TU Dresden in 1991. Over 30 years of experience in technology development, research and eduation followed his graduation. For 13 years he has worked in executive positions at CNH: - 4 years Head of Hydraulic Department and Head of Design Department - 5 years Global Head of Systems Architecture for Construction Equipment in CNH worldwide - 4 years Global Head of System Integration, Pre- development and Innovation for Construction Equipment in CNH worldwide; for all CNH Construction Machine Platforms: Excavator, Loader, Dozer, Grader, TLB, SSL, TH In 2010 Jürgen returned to TU Dresden as appointed university professor and chair of Fluid-Mechatronic Systems “Fluidtronic” and he heads up the Institute of Mechatronic Engineering at TU Dresden hosting the International Fluid Power Conference held every 2 years since 1998, alternating between Aachen and Dresden. Furthermore, Jürgen has been head of the Consulting Board for HYDAC, Sulzbach/Saar, for 10 years, still being a member, and was also appointed as a member of the Supervisory Board of Musashi Europe GmbH. He is a fellow and now chair of the Global Fluid Power Society. The membership of 5G Lab Germany at TU Dresden is a further indicator for more than 15 years of experience in management and coordination of research alliances as well as the activities as surveyor, PhD supervisor, over 300 publications, technical books and lecture notes. As CEO of the newly founded innovation center Construction Future Lab (CFLab gGmbH, Dresden) Jürgen will keenly continue with applied research and technology transfer with focus on digitization technologies in contruction machines and processes.

K03: Future Trends in the U.S. Fluid Power Industry

By: Eric Lanke (NFPA, USA)

When: Tuesday 8 September 2026 (Day 1), 13:15-14:45 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Jim Van De Ven

Order: talk 3 of 3, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: This is a time of remarkable opportunity for the U.S. fluid power industry. The pace of technological evolution continues to accelerate, with the industry on the leading edge of the challenges associated with an increasingly hybridized environment. Electrification, autonomous functions, and IoT-integrated technologies are helping OEMs and other customers drive towards greater efficiency and productivity. And in response, fluid power industry players are finding ways to reduce their product development cycles and are bringing more and more innovative technologies to market. This presentation will provide an overview of these technological drivers of change, and the ways in which the fluid power industry, and its industry association, are adapting.

Speaker biography: Eric Lanke is the President and CEO of the National Fluid Power Association, a trade association of more than 300 organizations serving the hydraulic and pneumatic industries. He is responsible for setting NFPA’s strategic direction, and overseeing the programs and communications needed to achieve its objectives. He also serves as the President and CEO of the NFPA Education and Technology Foundation, an affiliated charitable organization that supports outreach, education and research programs in fluid power. During his tenure with NFPA, he has worked to build coalitions that have launched, developed and grown numerous initiatives focused on the future of the fluid power industry, including the Technology Roadmap for the Fluid Power Industry and its pre-competitive research agenda for the development of new fluid power technologies.

K04: Beyond Hydraulics: The Promise and Challenges of EMAs in Heavy-Duty Mobile Equipment

By: Tatiana Minav (Tampere University, Finland)

When: Tuesday 8 September 2026 (Day 1), 15:15-17:30 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Jürgen Weber

Order: talk 1 of 4, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: Today, Electro-mechanical actuators (EMAs) seen as an emerging transformative technology for heavy-duty mobile machinery. They offer a clear pathway toward higher energy efficiency, improved controllability. By converting electrical energy directly into mechanical motion, EMAs eliminate throttling losses inherent to hydraulics and enable precise, dynamic actuation that supports advanced automation and intelligent machine functions. Their compatibility with hybrid and fully electric powertrains positions EMAs as an attractive solution for next-generation low-emission equipment; yet this apparent simplicity conceals significant engineering challenges Reliability under shock loads, vibration, and extreme thermal conditions remains a central concern, particularly where traditional hydraulics have a long track record of robustness. Integrating EMAs with the machine base and powertrain requires rethinking system architecture to ensure durability without compromising performance and reliability. This complexity creates a growing need for advanced health-monitoring and prognostic capabilities. This keynote will explore whether EMAs can truly be positioned as a key enabler in the transition toward low-emission, high-efficiency heavy-duty mobile machinery, and what technological developments are still required to unlock their full potential.

Speaker biography: Tatiana Minav (ASME and IEEE member) is Associate professor in IHA –Innovative Hydraulics and Automation lab, Tampere University, Finland. She over 20 years’ experience working on improving the efficiency of non-road mobile working machines. She has authored in total 165 scientific publications. Her current interests include zonal hydraulics, electro-hydrostatic and electro-mechanical actuators, sensorless position control with direct electric drive in hydraulic systems, AI-based condition monitoring and predictive maintenance, thermal management, energy balance and energy recovery systems in non-road mobile working machines.

K05: Investigation of Alternative Powertrains for Mobile Machines: Agricultural Sprayer Case Study

By: Jim Van De Ven (University of Minnesota, USA)

When: Tuesday 8 September 2026 (Day 1), 15:15-17:30 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Jürgen Weber

Order: talk 2 of 4, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: Selecting the best powertrain architecture, component sizing, and control rules for a given mobile machine is highly dependent on the vehicle size, task, and drive cycle. This talk will explore emerging powertrain architectures for mobile machines with an example case study of comparing multiple alternatives for an agricultural sprayer.

Speaker biography: James D. Van de Ven is a Professor at the University of Minnesota in the Department of Mechanical Engineering where he operates the Mechanical Energy and Power Systems (MEPS) Laboratory. Dr. Van de Ven’s expertise is in the areas of machine design and dynamics, with specific interest in fluid power systems. Dr. Van de Ven has mentored over 50 graduate and undergraduate research assistants, published over 100 journal and conference papers, given over 70 technical presentations, and holds 12 provisional or utility patents. He is the past Chair of ASME Fluid Power Systems & Technology Division and Deputy Director of the Center for Compact and Efficient Fluid Power. He is an ASME Fellow and has been named a Distinguished University Teaching Professor.

K06: Using Nondimensional Analysis to Model, Design, and Test Hydraulic Control Systems

By: Noah Manring (University of Missouri, USA)

When: Tuesday 8 September 2026 (Day 1), 15:15-17:30 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Jürgen Weber

Order: talk 3 of 4, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: This paper presents the merits for modelling and designing hydraulic control systems using nondimensional analysis. It is shown in this paper that nondimensional analysis provides physical insight into the most important features of the control system, facilitating model reduction, providing a basis for machine-design sensitivity analysis, and reducing laboratory experiments. In engineering applications, nondimensional analysis is commonly used for fluid-thermal systems that depend on nondimensional groups such as the Reynold Number, the Mach Number, the Nusselt Number, among others. Even in dynamical systems we use the nondimensional damping ratio to describe the time response of a second order system; however, it is the author’s opinion that nondimensional analysis presents a powerful technique for studying hydraulic control systems that should be exploited more fully in our industry. In this paper, the author will present three case studies to show the value of using nondimensional analysis for modelling a hydraulic control system, designing hydraulic machinery, and reducing laboratory experiments. By following these examples, it is believed that efficiency will be improved in bringing products to market, and the quality and performance of our products will be advanced.

Speaker biography: Noah D. Manring is a professor in the John J. Boswell Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Missouri. Manring previously served as dean and Ketcham Professor of the College of Engineering, as well as chair of the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and served as chair of the former Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. On two separate occasions, he served as the college’s associate dean of research. He was as associate dean for administration at Princeton University, and as a program manager at Caterpillar’s Technical Center in Mossville, Illinois. He holds 15 U.S. patents for innovations in the field of fluid power. As a professor, he has received research funding from Caterpillar Inc., Festo Corp. and the National Fluid Power Association, as well as from the Department of Education, the National Science Foundation and various private donors. He has additionally done consulting work for several industrial firms, including Moog Inc., FMC Wyoming Corp., Dennison Hydraulics and Parker Hannifin. Manring has published two books, Hydraulic Control Systems, first and second editions, and Fluid Power Pumps and Motors: Analysis, Design and Control. He currently is working on his third book, Opportunity, Genius, and Entrepreneurship: A History of Modern Engineering. Before joining the MU faculty, Manring worked for eight years in the off-highway mobile equipment industry.

Published paper (PDF): https://www.riverpublishers.com/downloadchapter.php?file=RP_9788743816782C01.pdf

K07: Research-Industry Collaboration in Europe

By: Christian Geis (VDMA, Germany)

When: Tuesday 8 September 2026 (Day 1), 15:15-17:30 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Jürgen Weber

Order: talk 4 of 4, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: The industrial competitiveness of Europe’s fluid power industry can no longer be taken for granted. Increasing global competition, new technologies and changing geopolitical realities are challenging established strengths and business models. To address these developments, the European fluid power sector has defined four strategic priorities: standardization, digitalization, innovation and cooperation. This keynote will provide an industry perspective on Europe's current situation and highlight how companies, universities and industry organizations are working together to strengthen the sector's long-term competitiveness. Drawing on practical examples from VDMA and CETOP initiatives, the presentation will demonstrate how collaborative efforts in research, digitalization, standardization and public affairs are translating these four priorities into concrete action. It will show how cooperation across the European fluid power community helps strengthen industrial resilience and create the foundation for future growth in a rapidly changing global environment.

Speaker biography: Dr. Christian Geis is Deputy Managing Director of the VDMA Fluid Power Association and Managing Director of the Research Fund for Fluid Power in Germany. He holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the Darmstadt University of Technology and is responsible for strategy, research, innovation, digitalization and education within the German fluid power industry. Christian actively promotes collaboration between industry, academia and policymakers and represents the sector in national and European initiatives, including CETOP, the European Committee for Oil Hydraulic and Pneumatic Equipment. His work focuses on strengthening the competitiveness of European fluid power through standardization, digitalization, innovation and international cooperation.

K08: Future Trends in Motion and Control Technology

By: Shawn Horner (Parker Hannifin, USA)

When: Wednesday 9 September 2026 (Day 2), 08:00-10:15 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Lizhi Shang

Order: talk 1 of 4, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: Parker is the global leader in motion and control technologies, providing precision-engineered solutions for a wide variety of mobile, industrial and aerospace markets. This talk will provide an overview of the company and the secular trends driving growth. A specific focus will be on the inter-connected technologies in Parker’s portfolio that are enabling the engineering breakthroughs needed in each of these areas.

Speaker biography: Shawn Horner is currently the Vice President of Technology and Innovation for the Motion Systems Group of Parker Hannifin. His key responsibilities include leading the Group’s R&D efforts globally with a focus on new product development and sustaining engineering. In addition, he provides support to all Motion Systems divisions in the areas of strategy development and M&A. Shawn has held a variety of roles during his 15 years with Parker, including Business Development Manager for multiple operating groups, Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Digital Initiatives and Vice President of Technology for the Instrumentation Group and the Motion Technology Center. Prior to Parker, Shawn worked for GE in a variety of roles including engineering, six sigma and product management. Shawn holds a B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s in Business Administration in Finance from Case Western Reserve University. In the community Shawn is on the Board of Directors for the Great Lakes Science Center.

K09: AI in Fluid Power Technology

By: Steffen Haack + Enrique Busquets (Bosch Rexroth, Germany)

When: Wednesday 9 September 2026 (Day 2), 08:00-10:15 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Lizhi Shang

Order: talk 2 of 4, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: Based on the current state of digitization/ digitalization in hydraulics, potentials for the use of AI in fluid technology processes and products are presented. After clarifying the terminology and classifying the topic, differences between conventional AI and Gen AI are highlighted and current obstacles are discussed. The current AI landscape, the hardware required and the software requirements for using AI are presented. The first main section, “Use AI”, presents a number of specific use cases with a focus on process improvements in the areas of engineering and design, training and knowledge management. The second main section, “Build AI”, presents a number of product-related use cases at component and system level.

Speaker biography: Steffen Haack has worked in the fluid power industry for over 20 years and spent another 10 years in electrical automation. Today, he works as CTO of Bosch Rexroth, where his main responsibilities are R&D of the entire company as well as the responsibility for the hydraulics business units. On a voluntary basis, he is Chairman of the Board of the VDMA Fluid Power Association and President of CETOP, the European umbrella organization for fluid power. He also gives lectures on the digitalization of hydraulics at technical universities in different countries. Enrique Busquets Dr. Busquets joined Bosch Rexroth in 2016 after earning his doctoral degree in fluid power systems from Purdue University. He currently serves as Vice President of Engineering, Service, and Aftermarket for Bosch Rexroth North America. Dr. Busquets oversees regional product and business development for hydraulic pumps, hydraulic valves, electronics, telematics, software, and electric products, as well as P&L responsibility for the service and aftermarket business in the US, Canada, and Mexico.

K10: When Technology Leadership Is Not Enough - The Kings of Collaboration

By: Jeff Herrin (Danfoss, Denmark)

When: Wednesday 9 September 2026 (Day 2), 08:00-10:15 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Lizhi Shang

Order: talk 3 of 4, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: Innovation is actually a process, whereby technology, products and systems perfectly solve a customer pain point in a clever way such that the ultimate solution is ideal. We have learned through decades of innovation programs that the core idea or the technology behind the idea is never enough to guarantee a blockbuster solution. There are countless examples where great technology stalls on the entrepreneur's desktop because the full enablers of adoption were not present nor focused on. In this presentation, real-world examples where hydraulic technology adoption is clearly accelerated by add-on capabilities that create a full solution, well beyond just the core technology. Finally, a practical guideline to ensure great technology actually gets fully adopted in the mobile and industrial machinery industry will be shared.

Speaker biography: As Senior Vice President of Innovation & Development at Danfoss Power Solutions, Dr. Jeff Herrin and his team partners with our product divisions and external entrepreneurs and tech companies to develop industry-leading technology, solutions, and services. Based in Ames, Iowa, USA, Jeff joined Danfoss in 1998 and has held roles of increasing responsibility within Product and Systems Engineering. Prior to joining Danfoss, Jeff held research positions at NASA Langley Research Center and General Electric Corporate Research from 1993-1998. Jeff has a PhD in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He has served on the NFPA Board of Directors in the USA for 6 years.

K11: Fluid Power Earns Its Way on Modern Aircraft

By: Dave Norman (Moog, USA)

When: Wednesday 9 September 2026 (Day 2), 08:00-10:15 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Lizhi Shang

Order: talk 4 of 4, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: The motion-control industry is influenced by macro trends towards more electric, autonomous, and connected systems. We will discuss considerations and options for solving aircraft motion control challenges with the realization Fluid Power remains a powerful, resilient tool for today’s modern aircraft.

Speaker biography: Current Role: David currently serves as the Group Vice President, Engineering & Technology for Moog Inc., Military Aircraft Group Experiences/Education: Dave’s early career at Moog involved progressively increasing responsibilities in both Product and Development Engineering roles delivering Fight Control Actuation solutions for commercial and military platforms Dave’s middle career at Moog involved Eng Leadership roles for Flight Control and Mission Critical System Solutions for Military Aircraft including F-22, X-47, F-35, and multiple classified platforms. He has held a series of Engineering and Business leadership roles including Business Unit General Manager, Director of Growth and Innovation, and Vice President of Engineering and Technology. BSc and MSc in Mechanical Engineering and Control Systems. Executive Bio: David Norman is an engineering and technology executive with deep enterprise leadership experience, proven P&L accountability, and a rare blend of corporate and entrepreneurial innovation expertise. Entrepreneurial Innovation & Venture Creation • Co-Founded and Built a services business delivering automation solutions to the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry • Later formed and led an Innovation team within Moog Aircraft Group reporting to the Group President where he developed new capabilities in emerging markets for Moog, reinforcing innovation as a sustained competency—not a one-off experience Core Competency - hands-on experience creating new businesses from scratch, commercializing technology, and operating in ambiguous, fast-moving environments—skills that are rare and highly transferable in enterprise settings.

K12: How Caterpillar Advanced Technology Is Enabling Safer Outcomes and What It Means for Hydraulics

By: John Tuntland + Mandi Henderson (CAT, USA)

When: Wednesday 9 September 2026 (Day 2), 10:45-12:30 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Andrea Vacca

Order: talk 1 of 3, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: With record 2025 revenues of $67.6 billion and 1.6 million connected assets across approximately 190 countries, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment — and the invisible layer of the tech stack. Backed by $30 billion in R&D, Caterpillar is redefining jobsite safety through active machine intervention, industrial AI, autonomy, and remote operations — with electrohydraulic systems at the foundation. This presentation will explore how these technologies are enabling safer, more productive outcomes, what that means for hydraulics, and how industry and suppliers can leverage the same enablers to advance safety in their own operations.

Speaker biography: John Tuntland is a senior vice president of Caterpillar Inc., responsible for the Integrated Components Division. In this role, he provides global leadership for the design and manufacturing of components used across the Caterpillar portfolio. Since joining Caterpillar in 2001, Tuntland has held various roles with increasing responsibility in engineering, commercial and marketing, product management and operations. He has gained extensive international experience through multiple assignments in Asia and global operations leadership. Prior to his current role, John was vice president of the Resource Industries Operations team, which manufactures Caterpillar’s prime product mining machines at global facilities specializing in assembly, fabrication, engineering, quality, safety, and supply chain operations. Tuntland graduated from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering and earned an MBA from Benedictine University in 2003. He also brings extensive entrepreneurial and leadership experience from outside the organization, including his ownership and operation of Tuntland Farms in northern Illinois. Mandi Henderson Mandi Henderson is Vice President of Global Hydraulics at Caterpillar, where she is responsible for the enterprise strategy and governance of the company’s $2 billion hydraulics business. In this role, she leads development and execution of the enterprise component strategy for hydraulics, with a focus on aftermarket growth, make/buy technology development and supply resilience. Mandi began her career as a design engineer at a small agricultural equipment manufacturer before joining Caterpillar as a test engineer in Fuel Systems. Since then, she has held a range of leadership and technical roles across fuel systems product development, category buying, supplier quality, engineering and hydraulics strategy. Her experience includes serving as Supplier Quality Manager for engine components in Europe, based in Peterborough, United Kingdom; leading engineering for Caterpillar-designed valves; overseeing the hydraulic valve portfolio and hydraulics labs; and serving as both a category manager for Resource Industries hydraulics and a hydraulic systems engineering manager. Raised in a small town in Saskatchewan, Canada, Mandi earned a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. Outside of work, she enjoys playing hockey.

K13: Transforming Off-Highway Machines Through Advanced Fluid Power Technologies

By: Alberto Frulli + Stefano Fiorati (CNH, Italy/USA)

When: Wednesday 9 September 2026 (Day 2), 10:45-12:30 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Andrea Vacca

Order: talk 2 of 3, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: The evolution of agricultural machinery toward automation and autonomy is transforming the role of hydraulic systems. Traditionally valued for power density and robustness, hydraulics must evolve into intelligent electro-hydraulic architectures capable of sensing, communication, and real-time control. Advanced fluid power technologies, are turning hydraulics into a key enabler of vehicle intelligence, transforming power transmission systems into scalable automation platforms to support precise motion control, implement coordination, and autonomous operation. This transformation delivers greater precision, efficiency, machine availability, and productivity while helping address skilled labor shortages. At the same time, it drives a talent shift, requiring new competencies that combine hydraulics with electronics, software, controls, sensing, AI, and systems engineering to develop the next generation of autonomous off-highway machines.

Speaker biography: Alberto Frulli is the Fluid Power Director at CNH. He is responsible for defining roadmaps for hydraulic and pneumatic components and systems, and for developing advanced engineering solutions to support future strategies and new product launches across the company's entire portfolio. He began his career at CNH in 2005 as a Hydraulic Test Engineer. From 2012 to 2017, he managed the European Driveline and Hydraulic Product Validation activities. He then moved to Driveline Product Development, where his most recent role, held until 2025, was Small & Specialty Drivelines Product Development Senior Manager. He holds a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy, where he has also served as a member of the Industry Advisory Board for the Mechanical and Vehicle Engineering Degree Program. He is an Adjunct Professor at MUNER (Motorvehicle University of Emilia-Romagna), where he teaches Power Transmission for Off-Highway Vehicles within the Master's Degree Program in Advanced Automotive Engineering – Off-Highway Vehicles. Stefano Fiorati Stefano Fiorati is the Powertrain Innovation Director at CNH. He is responsible for advancing and expanding driveline, hydraulic, electrification and engine technologies across the Company’s entire agriculture product portfolio. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Fiorati was Manager of Tractor Innovation, Zero Emission & Advanced Drivetrain at CNH from 2021-2023 and Tractor Innovation from 2014-2021. In this previous role, he was technical project leader for the New Holland T6.140 Methane Powered tractor prototype and subsequent concepts, presented in 2015 and 2017 respectively and in production since 2021. Moreover, project related to automation on tractor-baler were under Mr. Fiorati’s responsibility like the Agritechnica 2019 awarded “Baler Mode”. He is the owner of more than 40 patents. Mr. Fiorati started his professional career with CNH Industrial in 2011 as Mechanical Design Engineer within the Innovation department. Stefano Fiorati has a PhD in Mechanics of Machine awarded jointly by the University of Ferrara, Italy, and the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium. He has a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ferrara, Italy.

K14: Why the Best Engineering Does Not Always Win

By: Corey Quinnell (Husco, USA)

When: Wednesday 9 September 2026 (Day 2), 10:45-12:30 ET

Where: Stewart Center, Fowler Hall

Session: Keynote Lecture, chair Andrea Vacca

Order: talk 3 of 3, individual start time not published

Type: Keynote lecture

Abstract: The engineers who make the biggest difference are not always the ones who know the most. They are the ones who create the most value—for their teams, their customers, and the world around them. Attendees should leave with a broader definition of engineering success and a renewed perspective on how they can grow—not just as technical experts, but as influential problem- solvers capable of shaping products, organizations, and industries.

Speaker biography: Corey Quinnell is the Vice President of Global Engineering at Husco, a leader in hydraulic and electro-hydraulic control systems. With over 20 years of engineering excellence, Quinnell leads international teams to design and implement innovative product architecture across the automotive and off-highway industries. A passionate advocate for education, he was recognized by BizTimes Milwaukee as a Notable Leader in STEM for his extensive work mentoring student co-ops and developing technical engineering curricula. He holds a Master of Engineering Management from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and specializes in fluid power systems, Six Sigma methodologies, and advanced product development