Big Ideas Take the Stage: APEX EXPO 2026 Keynotes

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Some of the most consequential conversations in electronics manufacturing will take center stage at APEX EXPO 2026, with a keynote lineup that spans quantum computing, advanced packaging, artificial intelligence, and the global electronics economy.

From IBM and Intel technologists to an AI futurist and a global industry leader, this year’s keynote speakers will offer attendees both technical depth and strategic perspective on the forces reshaping the electronics ecosystem.

Quantum Computing Takes Center Stage

Dr. David Lokken-Toyli

When: Monday, March 16 | 1:30–2:30 p.m.
Session: “Computing at the Quantum Advantage Frontier” (Conference Keynote; registration required)

David Lokken-Toyli, a principal research scientist at IBM Quantum, opens the conference speaking on one of the hottest topics in technology: the trajectory from today’s quantum prototypes toward large-scale, error-corrected quantum systems. His keynote will frame IBM’s hardware roadmap and highlight why quantum computing matters to the broader electronics ecosystem, especially how hardware advances create new opportunities for component and subsystem suppliers. Attendees can expect insights on emerging quantum workflows and where electronic manufacturing fits into future quantum supply chains.

Packaging Innovation and Integration

Dr. Ravi Mahajan

When: Monday, March 16 | 2:30–3:30 p.m.
Session: “Advanced Packaging: A Crucial Enabler for Heterogeneous Integration” (Conference Keynote; registration required)

Following the quantum keynote, Dr. Ravi Mahajan, Intel Fellow and director of Assembly & Packaging Technology Pathfinding, will tackle advanced packaging, the linchpin technology for heterogeneous integration (HI). It is foundational to performance scaling across chips, modules and systems. Mahajan will outline key research and industry-academic collaborative roadmap efforts, explaining what advanced packaging means in practice and why it’s a catalyst for next-generation electronics. He’ll also explain real-world opportunities and challenges around interconnect scaling, which are essential knowledge for engineers and technology strategists alike.

AI’s Renaissance and Business Disruption

Zack Kass

When: Tuesday, March 17 | 8:30–9:30 a.m.
Session: “The Next Renaissance” (Opening Keynote; open to all attendees)

Zack Kass is a futurist, AI thought leader, and former head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI. In his keynote, Kass draws sharp parallels between the transformative impact of artificial intelligence today and the cultural rebirth of the historical Renaissance. Instead of dwelling on hype or fear, he’ll focus on practical, positive applications of AI, breaking down complex tech for business leaders and outlining strategies organizations can use to stay ahead of rapid AI evolution. Expect insights on workforce impact, enterprise transformation and how to turn disruption into opportunity.

Electronics Powering the Future

Dr. John W. Mitchell

When: Wednesday, March 18 | 12:00–1:30 p.m.
Session: “The Electronics Revolution: Powering Every Industry’s Future” (Luncheon Keynote; registration required)

Dr. John W. Mitchell, president and CEO of the Global Electronics Association, brings a midweek data-rich, strategic keynote, addressing electronics as a $6 trillion foundational industry, touching everything from AI and autonomous systems to aerospace, healthcare and smart infrastructure. Mitchell will discuss geopolitical pressures, supply chain challenges, and the need for strategic interdependence across regions and sectors. His goal is to equip industry professionals with building resilience and unlocking growth in an increasingly interconnected global market.

Why These Keynotes Matter

This lineup reflects APEX EXPO’s broad industry scope in emerging technology, core manufacturing evolution, transformational forces, and big-picture industry strategy.

For attendees, these keynotes deliver thought leadership with practical takeaways, from technical roadmaps to business strategy, that can help shape next-year planning and competitive positioning.