| BakingTECH 2026
Mixing Innovation, Connections & Expertise |
Collaborate Boldly. Bake Innovatively. Craft Connections That Matter. That’s the driving force behind BakingTECH 2026, the baking industry’s premier annual event, returning to Chicago, February 16–19, 2026, at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk. |
|
|
This year’s conference brings together industry leaders, innovators, and emerging talent for an energizing mix of education, technology, and hands-on engagement—all designed to spark ideas, solve challenges, and strengthen professional networks. 1. New Workshops
New this year, two pre-conference workshops on Monday, February 16, offer hands-on, practical learning. In the morning, Sensory Training 101 helps commercial bakers sharpen their sensory evaluation skills to elevate product quality. The afternoon session, Ongoing Evolution of Food Safety, provides critical updates on the shift from PCQI 1.2 to 2.0, ideal for professionals responsible for food safety compliance and planning. 2. Unique Expo Experience
The Formulation Floor, a cornerstone of the BakingTECH experience, will again anchor the event alongside features like the Innovation Stations and Bakers’ Row. These spaces offer curated opportunities to explore supplier solutions, discover product capabilities, and gain clarity on the baking production process. The Formulation Floor will also continue its popular mid-day hours and will feature a special evening networking reception and activity on Wednesday, an energizing way to close out the day’s connections.
3. More Technical Learning
The educational programming has expanded for 2026, offering attendees the chance to explore emerging trends, technical advancements, and practical solutions for today’s baking challenges. With 20 breakout sessions, five Ideation Labs, and the return of BakeTALKs combined with the Podcast Lounge, this year’s content spans a diverse range of topics including food safety, cutting-edge technology, sustainability, evolving consumer behavior, and global flavor innovation.
3. Small Group Dinners
Introduced in Orlando, these casual dinners are a time for meaningful connections at the start of the week. Thanks to the support from partners like ATBI, the Tuesday evening optional activity returns this year in what many call "the best foodie town around" for a mix of outstanding networking and sightseeing. Get out and explore something new or ask to go to your favorite hot-spot by adding this to your advance registration. 4. YoPros Connect For young professionals, the conference will once again offer dedicated events, including a scavenger hunt on Tuesday afternoon and a lively networking event at SPIN Chicago, bringing the industry’s rising stars together in a fun, informal setting.
5. Celebrate Baking Legends
A highlight of the week, the Hall of Fame Lunch on Wednesday, February 18, will honor exceptional contributors and innovators in the baking industry—celebrating the leaders who’ve shaped the past and continue to inspire the future. Ready to Join Us?
Registration for BakingTECH 2026 is now open, and it won't be the same without you. For full details, visit asbe.org/bakingtech2026. Be sure to check-out the New Member Scholarship Fund that offers financial support for bakers to participate in the event.
|
|
|
Nominate A Leader For The Robert A. Fischer Distinguished Service Award |
Since 1999, the Robert A. Fischer Distinguished Service Award has recognized individuals whose dedication, leadership, and volunteer contributions have helped shape and grow ASB.
Created to honor Bob Fischer’s lasting impact as ASB’s longtime Secretary Treasurer, the award was first presented to him and now celebrates members who demonstrate exceptional service and commitment to the Society. Presented annually at BakingTECH, the award highlights those who go above and beyond in driving programs, strengthening membership, and advancing ASB’s mission.
Do you know someone whose long-standing commitment deserves recognition? Submit your nomination today & help us honor ASB’s most impactful contributors:
|
|
|
September 10th
Webinar: Utilizing Experimental Design in Product Development |
Unlock a smarter approach to bakery product development with our upcoming webinar on Design of Experiments (DoE). Learn how structured experimentation can streamline formulation, improve consistency, and accelerate time to market. This session will cover real-world applications—from ingredient evaluation to shelf-life optimization. |
| September 14–17th
Fireside Chats at IBIE |
In case you needed another reason to visit the ASB Recharge Lounge at IBIE, here you go: we're hosting Fireside Chats! These casual conversations led by key industry voices will include topics such as retail trends, consumer insights on grain foods, food safety, careers in baking, and more. Stay tuned for the full schedule and plan to stop by for insights, connection, and inspiration. |
|
|
October 21st Regional Meet-Up at Bundy Baking Museum |
Join us at the Bundy Baking Museum in Central Ohio, home of ASB’s Baking Hall of Fame. This special gathering blends history, networking, fun, and plenty of time to connect. Guided tours will be offered and the evening will conclude with the reveal of the 2026 Baking Hall of Fame inductees. |
| October 28th
Casual Meet-Up at EATS |
ASB will be at EATS (formerly ProcessExpo) in Chicago and we'd love to see you there. We’re hosting an informal get-together with baking professionals and fellow members to connect, chat, and catch up. No registration is required, just stop by and say hello.More information will be shared soon, so stay tuned! |
|
|
| MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Dave Krishock Bakery Technical Support Manager Grain Craft |
|
|
This month, we’re proud to spotlight Dave Krishock—BakingTECH 2026 Program Chair and an industry leader whose career has uniquely blended technical knowledge, teaching, and practical baking expertise.
In his current role as Bakery Technical Support Manager at Grain Craft, Dave serves as a trusted resource for customers, helping them solve production challenges and optimize processes. He also partners closely with internal teams in quality assurance and the test lab, bridging customer needs with technical insights.
Dave’s hands-on experience spans the country. He’s held leadership roles at bakeries like City Bakery in North Carolina and Zingerman’s Bakehouse in Michigan. He also spent time managing his own bakery and previously led technical services for King Arthur Flour’s Bakery/Food Service Division. These roles have grounded his work in the realities of production while keeping his focus on innovation and quality.
Education has been a cornerstone of Dave’s career. He spent over a decade teaching at Kansas State University in the Department of Grain Science, where he led courses in bakery science and facility design, mentored students, and was honored with the Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Award. In addition to K-State, he’s taught for the American Institute of Baking and the International Grains Program, sharing his passion and knowledge with bakers around the world.
A longtime ASB member, Dave served on the Board of Directors from 2023 to 2025 and was a key contributor to the BakingTECH Planning Committees in 2023 and 2025. He currently serves on the MarketPlace Committee and is leading the charge as Chair of the BakingTECH 2026 Planning Committee. When he's not in a bakery, you'll find him helping a neighbor in his home state of North Carolina or running a mountain trail or exploring somewhere new with his bride of 34 years, Wendi. With deep technical expertise, a strong educational background, and an unwavering commitment to the baking community, Dave continues to make a lasting impact across the industry.
Here’s to you, Dave! Your leadership, dedication, and collaborative spirit make you an invaluable part of ASB. |
|
|
American Society of Baking | 1415 Shelby Street, Suite A | Indianapolis, IN 46203 US |
Was this email forwarded to you? Subscribe and never miss an update! |
|
|
|
