Women of Flexo to Host 4th Annual Unwind & Rewind Conference at Clemson University
Women of Flexo will bring its signature blend of professional development, technical education, and community connection to their 4th Annual Women of Flexo Conference, themed “Unwind & Rewind.” The event will be hosted at the Watt Family Innovation Center at Clemson University March 17 – 18, 2026, with tours of the Sonoco Institute of Packaging Design and Graphics on March 18.
Designed for women across the flexographic printing and packaging industry, the conference offers a thoughtful response to the pace, pressure, and complexity of modern manufacturing careers—creating space to reset while strengthening the skills that move both people and the industry forward. Dinner, lunch and refreshments are provided.
The Unwind & Rewind theme reflects two intentional experiences. Unwind focuses on releasing mental load, unrealistic expectations, and the constant demand to perform, while Rewind returns attendees to the fundamentals of flexography, mentorship, and leadership that builds sustainable careers. Together, the program balances personal restoration with practical learning in a way that has become a hallmark of the Women of Flexo conference experience.
Hosted at Clemson University, the conference welcomes women from all areas of flexography, including administration, finance, prepress, production, engineering, and executive leadership. Over two days, attendees will participate in interactive small group workshops, educational seminars, and meaningful networking opportunities designed to foster real connection across roles and career stages. An exclusive tour of the Sonoco Institute of Packaging Design and Graphics facility and pressroom will provide a hands-on learning experience within one of the industry’s most respected academic environments.
Conference Speakers & Sessions
Day One of the conference centers on Unwind, beginning with an The Unwind Workshop, an interactive small-group workshop led by Rachel Acevedo, Founder and CEO of Ace Media & Marketing. The day continues with a session on Mentorship Across Life Seasons presented by Allison Toles, Vice President of Fine Line Graphics, followed by a candid panel discussion on Unwinding Expectations: Letting Go of “Perfect” to Make Room for Progress. Panelists include Farrah Nuzzo of Apex International, Brandy Marlow of Container Graphics, Alyssa Denney of Great Northern Corp, and Michele Laird-Williams of Miraclon, offering perspectives shaped by diverse roles and experiences within the industry.
The Rewind portion of the conference on Day Two shifts the focus back to flexographic fundamentals and shared learning. Allie Ayers of DuPont will lead a session on Back to the Basics: Why Flexo Fundamentals Still Win, examining why core flexo principles continue to drive performance and innovation and setting the stage for the following technical workshops. Attendees will then rotate between groups taking part in The Great Flexo Scavenger Hunt, reinforcing technical knowledge through interactive, team-based learning, and a guided tour of the Sonoco Institute and pressroom led by WOF and Clemson professors. The conference will conclude with an insightful Keynote Address from Kristen Shields, President of Graymills Corporation, whose leadership and industry advocacy have earned widespread recognition across the printing and packaging community.
Conference Entertainment & Networking
Beyond education, the conference experience extends into wellness, entertainment and networking. Day 1 will feature The Rewind Party, an after-dinner networking event complete with throwback music from the 1970s through the early 2000s, karaoke, interactive table vendors, and special entertainment. During this time, WOF will also present their first ever Woman of the Year Awards, managed by the WOF Leadership Development Committee.
Special entertainment during conference day 2 will begin with an optional early-morning wellness class at the Fairfield Inn, offering a final unwind before the technical Rewind sessions begin.
Lodging Information
Women of Flexo has secured hotel room blocks with special conference rates at the Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Seneca Clemson Univ Area and the Inn @ Clemson. More lodging options to be announced.
Conference Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations looking to actively support women and the future of the flexographic industry while gaining meaningful visibility among industry professionals. Available sponsorships include Dinner Sponsor ($1,000), Entertainment Sponsor ($750), Luncheon Sponsor ($750), Raffle Sponsor ($500), Refreshment Sponsor ($500), Charging Station Sponsor ($350), Photobooth Sponsor ($350), and T-Shirt Sponsor ($250). Participation as a sponsor represents more than brand exposure—it is a tangible investment in leadership development, inclusion, and the continued growth of the flexographic community.
Conference Registration
Registration is now open, with discounted rates available for FTA members and group registrations.
The preceding press release was provided by a company unaffiliated with Packaging Impressions. The views expressed within may not directly reflect the thoughts or opinions of the staff of Packaging Impressions.
