In times of change, growth, and uncertainty, Lean leaders need more than tools, they need connection.
The 2026 Michigan Lean Consortium Annual Conference brings together continuous improvement professionals from across industries to explore what it means to navigate Lean while staying anchored in connection — to our purpose, our people, and our community.
Set against the waterfront backdrop of Muskegon, this year’s conference is designed to strengthen your technical skills while deepening the relationships that make improvement sustainable.
What You Can Expect
Up to Three Days of Powerful Learning
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Two full days of breakout sessions and keynote speakers
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Practical, real-world applications of Lean across industries
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Actionable insights you can bring back to your organization immediately
Meaningful Networking
Lean is a people system — and this conference is built to reflect that. Dedicated networking activities outside the classroom create space to:
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Build authentic connections
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Exchange ideas with peers
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Continue informal learning in a relaxed setting
Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to Lean, you’ll find a welcoming, collaborative community ready to share and learn together.
Gemba Walks
“Go see” what excellence looks like in action.
Our Gemba experiences provide the opportunity to:
There is no substitute for seeing the work where it happens.
Click Here for the Full Conference Schedule
Speakers and Presentations
We’re excited to welcome a diverse lineup of speakers from across industries who will share real-world Lean experiences, practical strategies, and lessons learned to help you navigate continuous improvement in your organization.
Keynotes
Elisabeth Swan
President | Swan Consulting & Associates, Inc
Andy Worshek
Expert on Intent-Based Leadership, Author & Former Sonar Chief on the USS Santa Fe
Click here the full list of Speakers
Thank You to our Sponsors!
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Sponsor the Conference Today
Organizations that sponsor the Michigan Lean Consortium 2026 Annual Conference place their brand at the center of Michigan’s continuous improvement community.
With 120 expected attendees, 637 members, and a reach of 2,700+ subscribers and social followers, sponsorship offers strong visibility before, during, and after the event.
From vendor tables and stage recognition to social media spotlights, there are multiple ways to showcase your organization while supporting Lean across Michigan.
Click here for Sponsorship Opportunities
Students
Scholarship Funding May Be Available.
MLC student members can apply for scholarship support to help cover the cost of Annual Conference registration. Awards are based on available funding and reviewed on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply early.
Click Here to Apply for a Scholarship
Not yet an MLC student member? Join here.
Thursday Night Excursions: Choose Your Port
Note: These excursions are a separate add-on and aren't included in your conference registration. You'll book and pay directly with the provider.
The harbor is full of possibilities — Choose Your Port and set sail for an evening of exploration, with several local destinations to discover alongside new connections.
Aquastar Lake Cruise
The Aquastar is a U.S. Coast Guard–certified Seasonal Leisure Vessel operating on beautiful Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan. Based at Mart Dock in downtown Muskegon, the Aquastar offers a memorable way to enjoy West Michigan’s waterfront, skyline, and sunsets from the water. We can accomodate up to 150 guests and sail past many landmarks in Muskegon Lake before enjoying a stellar sunset in Lake Michigan!
⚓Boarding begins at 7:30, Cruise 8pm-10pm
⚓Use discount code “MLC5OFF”
Click on this Flyer for More Information
Hotel Accommodations
Delta Hotels Muskegon Convention Center: Book your stay here.
Update: A limited number of rooms have been added to the MLC room block rate of $199.00 (plus fees), available until July 17th unless they sell out before. Call 231-722-0100 to check on availability and ask for the MLC rate.
Room Block ended 07/05/2026. We look forward to welcoming you to Muskegon for a successful and engaging event!
New To The MLC?
At the MLC, we do our best to be inclusive at every level of experience, whether it’s a conference, Gemba walk or any other of our membership activities.
An individual or organizational membership gives you a year’s worth of great Lean learning and networking at low- or no-cost!
Registration Cancellations
We understand that plans change. In the event you are unable to attend an event, refunds will be issued in full for cancellation refund requests received in writing via the events@michiganlean.org email at least seven (7) days before the event. Refunds will not be issued when less than a seven (7) day notice is provided. After submitting your cancellation refund request via email, please allow up to ten (10) business days for your refund to be processed. If the event is rescheduled, all purchases will be honored for the rescheduled event date. If the event is cancelled, all purchases will be refunded in full.
Disclaimer
By registering for Michigan Lean Consortium (MLC) events, you acknowledge and agree that photographs, videos, and other media taken during the event may be used by MLC for business purposes, marketing, and promotional materials. If you have concerns, please contact the event organizer prior to the event.
