"With emerging manufacturing trends and the introduction of disruptive technologies making their mark on the metal fabricating industry, FABTECH 2019 will provide industry professionals with immediate access to the information, technology and equipment they need to transform their businesses for success in the future," said a spokesperson. "North America's largest metalforming, fabricating, welding and finishing event will welcome more than 48,000 attendees from around the world and over 1,700 exhibiting companies to Chicago's McCormick Place on November 11-14."
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, veterans filling critical industry roles and more.
"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 Senior Director, FABTECH. "As the leading industry event, it is 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," said Catalano.
The opening FABx Tech Talks keynote on Monday will pay special tribute to veterans in the manufacturing industry. "These TED Talk-inspired sessions feature a 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," said the spokesperson.
"Over 170 education sessions will offer attendees a wide range of topics that will open the door to industry transformation, collaboration and discovery of solutions to enhance manufacturing efficiencies," continued the spokesperson. "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, maximizing data for efficiency and more."
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 open at fabtechexpo.com