AMC is pleased to announce a new panel session in its lineup for FORGE: AMC’s 2025 Annual Expo and Trade Show. This key group of manufacturers from across Canada will present, “Leading in Challenging Times”.

Global competition, shifting markets, and evolving customer demands are reshaping the ag manufacturing landscape. In this session, Bob Cochran will lead panellists in a candid exchange on how they’re confronting today’s realities while continuing to drive innovation and growth. Attendees will gain firsthand insights into the strategies that strengthen resilience, sharpen competitiveness, and sustain Canada’s world-class reputation for quality on the global stage. Panellists include manufacturers Glenn Buurma, President of Penta Equipment Inc., Paul Horst, President of Tubeline Manufacturing Inc. and Mark Horst, President of Marcrest Manufacturing Inc.

Register for FORGE: AMC’s 2025 Annual Expo and Trade Show to engage in their insightful dialogue on leading through the present challenges.

About The Facilitator

Bob Cochran is the Director of the Highline Brand, a division of Bourgault Industries and a subsidiary of the Linamar Ag group of companies. With a career in the agricultural equipment industry spanning more than 25 years and including such roles as Design Engineer, Product Development Team Leader, Plant Leader and General Manager, Bob brings a wealth of experience and insight to his leadership role.
He has spent the vast majority of his career within the Bourgault group of companies, where he has worked closely with farmers and ranchers to develop equipment that delivers real value on the ground. Known for his practical approach and commitment to innovation, Bob is passionate about advancing the future of Canadian agriculture.

In addition to his role at Highline, Bob has served on the Board of Directors of the Agricultural Manufacturers of Canada (AMC) since 2016 and is the current Board Chair, where he advocates for the interests and growth of Canada’s ag manufacturing sector.

About The Panellists

Glenn Buurma brings his passion for agriculture and business development in southwestern Ontario to the AMC Board. With roots firmly planted in Lambton County, his over 20-year journey in growing Penta Equipment to a multi-site manufacturing company has been marked with great success in both his team and the products they manufacture. Glenn’s drive to lead ‘Penta Proven Performance’ provides the backdrop of the company’s desire to build robust equipment for farmers so they can improve their efficiency and profitability every day. As a member of the Board of Directors in recent years, he continues his lifelong pursuit of embracing challenges and learning from others. Glenn is a devoted husband and father who always reminds everyone that he has a great team at home and Penta and needs both to make things happen.

Paul Horst’s broad background in agricultural manufacturing spans more than 30 years. Residing in Ontario, Paul is the president of Tubeline Manufacturing and Reist Industries. Paul also serves as VP of Sales and Marketing for a multi-company partnership between Horst/HLA Attachments, MK Martin Enterprises, Tubeline, and Reist Industries.

Mark Horst, President and Founder of Marcrest Manufacturing Inc.