INDUSTRIES OF THE FUTURE
PANELISTS
Stephen Carter
President
LT Automation Solutions
Stephen Carter is a 47-year veteran of the automation industry and has been involved in the development and upgrading of manufacturing automation systems for more than 40 years. In addition to manufacturing applications Stephen has applied automated controls to hundreds of machinery and automation systems both nationally and internationally and has designed and implemented machinery and control systems across diverse industries including Semiconductor, Food, Beverage, Brewing, Packaging, Plastics, Marine, Web, Paper, Transportation, and Pharmaceutical systems.
Robert DePalma
Global Quality Director
Interplex Sunbelt
Robert DePalma is a seasoned Global Quality Director with more than 25 years of experience spanning business operations, regulatory affairs, and quality management systems in the manufacturing and medical device industries. He currently leads global quality initiatives at Ennovi Inc. (formerly Interplex), where he partners with medical device customers—primarily in the continuous glucose monitoring sector—to ensure the highest standards of patient safety and product reliability.
Throughout his career, Robert has successfully guided multiple organizations at both corporate and subsidiary levels to achieve ISO certifications, harmonizing systems across diverse sites while fostering a culture of compliance and excellence. Recognized as a skilled motivator and highly organized leader, he brings exceptional expertise in developing, implementing, and sustaining quality management systems. His ability to strengthen communication across organizational levels and multi-site facilities has been instrumental in driving continuous improvement and operational consistency.
Outside of his professional role, Robert enjoys fishing, restoring classic cars, and traveling with his wife and three children.
Anthony DiMauro
President
South East Machine (SEM)
Anthony DiMauro is the owner/operator of a precision aerospace manufacturing company South East Machine; transforming a long-standing Tier 2 machine shop into a high-performing Tier 1 supplier. With a background in mechanical engineering, an MBA in finance, and more than a decade of industry experience, he combines technical expertise with strategic business leadership. His company is AS9100 certified and specializes in producing mission-critical components for leading aerospace and defense contractors. Anthony is passionate about advancing U.S. manufacturing capability, driving innovation in machining processes, and building the next generation of supplier partnerships that support space exploration and defense readiness.
Tara Lordi
Chief Executive Officer
Weedoo Greenboat, Inc.
Tara Lordi, the CEO of Weedoo Greenboat, Inc., a South Florida-based manufacturer of specialized aquatic workboats, has made significant strides in protecting waterways and ecosystems. Known for her drive, vision, and ability to cut through noise, Tara and her exceptional team have transformed Weedoo into a direct-to-consumer brand that provides innovative solutions for municipalities, contractors, and industries worldwide.
Beyond her manufacturing company, Tara is shaping how communities address environmental challenges. She spearheads seaweed cleanup and invasive plant removal efforts without resorting to harmful chemicals. Under her leadership, Weedoo has expanded its product sales across the United States and internationally, maintaining a focus on production and design that are sharp, lean, and built to last.
Tara’s leadership combines business acumen with grit. As a widow, entrepreneur, and unapologetically hands-on leader, she inspires her teams to think bigger and execute smarter. Whether negotiating with municipalities, developing amphibious equipment, or designing the next generation of workboats, Tara’s mission remains clear: to build solutions that save aquatic life and demonstrate the resilience of American manufacturing.