2026 BUSINESS & ECONOMIC OUTLOOK

Meet the Speakers

Regional insights. Industry perspectives. What’s ahead.

Friday, October 30, 2026 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Ivy Tech · Valparaiso
Thomas McDermott Jr.

Thomas McDermott Jr.

Mayor

City of Hammond

Sherri Ziller

Sherri Ziller

President & CEO

Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA)

Kevin Comerford

Kevin Comerford

Director of Professional Development

Construction Advancement Foundation (CAF)

Steve Skalka

Steve Skalka

Senior Vice President

Harbour Wealth Management

Marc Oestreich

Marc Oestreich

Partner

Crane + Grey

Jon Ford

Jon Ford

Executive Director

Indiana Office of Energy Development

Speaker lineup subject to change.

Learn First-Hand What’s Driving the NWI Economy

How will the business landscape evolve in 2026? Join the Northwest Indiana Business RoundTable (NWIBRT) and the Construction Advancement Foundation (CAF) for the 2026 Business & Economic Outlook—an essential briefing for local industry leaders.

Friday, Oct. 30th 2026

Why Attend?

  • Industry Insights: Hear from key decision-makers in government and business.

  • Expert Forecasts: Understand the trends influencing regional growth and development.

  • The Big Picture: Receive a detailed economic analysis of both the NWI region and the U.S. at large.

Stay informed, stay connected, and prepare your business for the opportunities of tomorrow.

Agenda:

Registration/Continental Breakfast: 7:30AM

Presentations: 8AM – 12PM
Ivy Tech Community College 3100 Ivy Tech Dr., Valparaiso, IN

2026 Business & Economic Outlook

Thank You to Our Sponsors

NWIBRT
Construction Advancement Foundation
Northwest Indiana Forum
Ivy Tech Community College
La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership
Northwest Indiana Influential Women Association
Portage Economic Development Corporation
Regional Development Company
Home Builders Association of Northwest Indiana
Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation
Crossroads Chamber