With emerging manufacturing trends and the introduction of disruptive technologies in the metal fabricating industry, FABTECH 2019 is designed to provide industry professionals with access to the information, technology and equipment needed to transform their businesses for future success.
North America’s largest metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing event expects to welcome more than 48,000 attendees and 1,700 exhibiting companies Nov 11-14 at McCormick Place in Chicago IL.
FABTECH 2019 is poised to showcase the most noteworthy equipment that will lead the transformation of small shops and Fortune 500 companies in the years to come. At the center of this year’s discussion will be 5G, IoT, AI, robotics and automation, as well as trending industry topics, including workforce development, women in the industry and veterans filling critical industry roles.
“FABTECH provides a unique platform for industry professionals to collaborate, discover innovation and participate in education sessions that highlight solutions needed to transform their businesses,” said John Catalano, SME’s senior director for FABTECH. “As the leading industry event, it’s our responsibility to bring innovation to life and ensure we provide content that allows manufacturers to be efficient, profitable and ultimately grow. FABTECH gives attendees a firsthand introduction to industry trends and access to the resources they need to capitalize on those trends to lead the industry and their companies into the future.”
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore three halls filled with cutting-edge technology and emerging trends that are transforming the industry. Featured pavilions include the 3D/Additive Manufacturing Pavilion and a new Robotics & Industrial Automation Pavilion that will introduce new technologies and products that are making businesses more productive and profitable. “Of all the industries that utilize robotics, the fabricated metal parts and welding industries have the strongest correlation to robots used in manufacturing processes,” Catalano said.
The opening FABx Tech Talks keynote will pay special tribute to veterans in manufacturing. These TED Talk-inspired sessions boast a powerful lineup of visionary military veterans. Industry heroes will draw on their unique experiences to captivate and inspire attendees with frontline stories focused on motivation, team building, innovation and how to achieve excellence in the business battlefield.
More than 170 education sessions will offer a range of topics expected to open the door to industry transformation, collaboration and discovery of solutions to enhance manufacturing efficiencies. Program speakers will bring thought-provoking insights, inspiration and expertise to conversations, including managing tariffs, reshoring, cyber security, incorporating new technology into job shops, business next and best practices, and maximizing data for efficiency.
Leadership exchange discussions will convene experts to discuss complex topics, including how advanced manufacturing is transforming jobs by using cutting-edge technology and new manufacturing processes to accelerate innovation. Thought leaders will identify disruptive technologies and bring critical thinking to the evolving 21st century workforce, and the intricacies of managing a multi-generational workforce and ever-increasing workforce gaps.
Registration for FABTECH 2019 is now open. Visit fabtechexpo.com to register and obtain more show details.
FABTECH 2019 Preview from FABTECH on Vimeo.