The FABTECH 2025 keynote lineup in Chicago is shaping up to be one of the strongest yet, featuring luminaries from NASCAR, the NFL, the NBA, and the Manufacturing Hall of Fame.
The event kicks off Monday, September 8, with NASCAR visionary Andy Papathanassiou, renowned motorsports innovator and the sport’s first pit crew coach. In his keynote titled “Over the Wall Thinking,” Papathanassiou shares the winning strategies behind his teams’ 250 plus victories and 16 series championships. Attendees will learn how his approach to preparation, communication, and continuous improvement transformed NASCAR pit crews and how these principles can be applied to business leadership.
“Over the Wall thinking is a philosophy I developed over 30 years in NASCAR,” says Papathanassiou. “It’s how top athletes solve problems through practice, repetition, and eliminating distractions. This mindset helps leaders become more engaging, dynamic, and effective.”
On Tuesday morning, Emmitt Smith, legendary Dallas Cowboys running back and the NFL’s all-time leading rusher, will deliver the second keynote. Smith boasts three Super Bowl rings, a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and the unique distinction of winning Super Bowl MVP, NFL MVP, and NFL Rushing Title in the same season.
Beyond football, Smith is a successful entrepreneur and bestselling author. His talk will focus on adapting to change, overcoming obstacles, leadership, and teamwork, drawing from his experiences as a professional athlete, business leader, and “Dancing with the Stars” champion.
“Oftentimes, wisdom from mentors reveals potential we don’t see in ourselves,” Smith says. “It’s not change itself, but our attitude toward change, that limits our possibilities.”
FABTECH 2025 continues Wednesday and Thursday with keynotes from an NBA legend and a Manufacturing Hall of Fame inductee. Stay tuned for our next blog preview.
Don’t miss out on this inspiring lineup—register today for FABTECH 2025 in Chicago!