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SOUTH-TEC 2017 Celebrates Advancements and Workplace Inclusion



"Manufacturing is thriving in the Southeast and manufacturers are enjoying considerable growth in a host of industries, from petrochemicals and automotive to aerospace," said an SME spokesperson. SOUTH-TEC brings leaders and expertise to the region and welcomes the inaugural Women in Automotive (WiA) Southern Conference produced by Women in Manufacturing (WiM).

SOUTH-TEC will take place October 24-26 at the TD Convention Center in Greenville, SC, and will focus on the region's manufacturing capability and opportunities. Produced by SME and AMT, the biennial event showcases the latest manufacturing technologies and provides access to industry experts sharing insights on fostering innovation, increasing productivity and improving profits.

SOUTH-TEC returns to South Carolina amid a manufacturing renaissance that includes the advanced manufacturing sector. The state ranks the lowest in the nation in annual operating costs for advanced manufacturing companies and expanding investment from abroad, notably in aerospace and automotive, has paced growth in many cities.

"Globally recognized companies are operating in South Carolina and are attracting similar companies and their suppliers," said Cathy Kowalewicz, Event Manager, SME. "SOUTH-TEC provides the opportunity to engage these OEMs and suppliers and identify solutions needed - from development to final production."

"Women in manufacturing are seeing positive changes in the industry's attitude towards recruiting, retaining and advancing women over the last five years, and greater improvement is possible. As of July 2017, 3.4 million women were employed in manufacturing, the highest level of women employed in manufacturing since April 2009," said the SME spokesperson. By co-locating the WiA Southern Conference with SOUTH-TEC, the events will bring together developmental opportunities for women, joining it with access to advanced manufacturing technology expertise and opportunity.

"American manufacturing is progressive and diverse, with high-tech and high-paying enterprises, where both men and women thrive," said Kowalewicz. "Manufacturers can support collaborative workplaces that embrace inclusion and creative, forward-thinking professionals - and SOUTH-TEC can be a starting point."

SOUTH-TEC features a show floor with over 366 companies represented in 271 exhibiting spaces, as well as in-depth workshops on key manufacturing topics. Complimentary technical presentations and keynotes are led by leaders from across the industry.

For more information contact:

SME Headquarters

One SME Drive

Dearborn, MI 48128

800-733-4763

www.sme.org

SOUTH-TEC

www.southteconline.com

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