FABTECH 2023 recently announced its schedule of keynote sessions and expert panels for the upcoming show, taking place September 11-14 at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL. Thought leaders in the manufacturing industry will be sharing their insights on emerging trends and critical advancements shaping the industry. Topics such as AI, robotic technology, labor shortages and workforce development will be explored in depth, providing attendees with valuable knowledge and insights to stay ahead of the curve.
The FABTECH 2023 special events schedule includes:
- FABx Tech Talks, Monday, Sept. 11, 8:30-9:30 AM
Industry leaders will discuss the new innovations that are improving metal fabrication and how attendees can hone their business skills to drive results. Carol Reiley, an AI roboticist and diversity advocate, will serve as the featured speaker. Additional speakers include Slade Gardner, Ph.D., President of Big Metal Additive; Ben Wald, founder of Very LLC; Laszlo Gonc, founder and CEO of Next Era Transformation Group; and Joanna C. Cooper, General Manager, Mount Holly, Daimler Truck North America.
- Leadership Exchange Panels, Monday-Wednesday, Sept. 11-13; 12:30-1:30 PM, and Thursday, Sept. 14; 10-11 AM
Attendees will get insights on the most pressing topics in manufacturing-including new AI technologies, workforce development and business financing-so they can best meet customer demand and stay competitive. This year's Leadership Exchange Panels include Advanced Manufacturing: Trends and Technologies Changing the Future of Metal Fabrication, Building the Future Workforce, Advancing Robotics in the Fabrication Metal Industry, and Financing Business: Sources of Funding for Business Owners.
- Women of FABTECH, Tuesday, Sept. 12; 7:30-9:30 AM
Women leaders representing a variety of roles within the primary FABTECH industries will share their personal career stories, challenges, successes and tips during this interactive session, titled How Did I Get Here? My Pathway to Manufacturing. The panelists include Teresa Beach-Shelow, Owner of Superior Joining Technologies, Inc.; Amanda Reel, Training Engineer, TRUMPF, Inc.; Marhya Osheaski, Vice President of Sales, IFS Coatings; Karen Gilgenbach, Vice President-North Zone, Matheson Gas; and Lisa Habe, President and Chairman of the Board, Interlake Stamping of Ohio, Inc.
Keynote Session: A Nasty Bit of Rough with David Feherty, Tuesday, Sept. 12; 8:30-9:30 AM
David Feherty, in addition to being one of golf's most in-demand commentators and analysts, is a strong advocate for U.S. troops in the line of duty as well as when they return home. Feherty will be sharing life stories and behind-the-scenes moments from life on the PGA Tour.
- Keynote Session: Digital Leadership - The 5 Simple Habits of Digital Leaders Wednesday, Sept. 13; 8:30-9:30 AM
Technology and digital leadership expert and author of Socialnomics, Eric Qualman will show attendees how to balance life online and offline for truly effective leadership. His research-based principles can help drive success and happiness in the modern digital world.
- 2023 State of Manufacturing, Thursday, Sept. 14; 8:30-9:30 AM
The manufacturing industry faces new opportunities, challenges and trends each year. A panel of experts will share insights on key trends impacting the manufacturing industry this year and provide take-aways to help attendees navigate 2023 and beyond.
FABTECH attendees can also choose from over 180 curated sessions and workshops offering insights and innovative solutions to transform their careers and business operations. Conference tracks including automation, robotics, smart manufacturing, job shop solutions, stamping, finishing, workforce development, welding, and forming and fabricating will help attendees stay ahead of the latest industry trends and advancements to increase productivity and profitability, harness leading-edge technology, build a talent pipeline and more.
The FABTECH 2023 conference schedule is built to address the top industry trends impacting manufacturing today. Attendees can build a customized schedule based on their individual or company employee training needs.
Key themes include:
- Robotics: Modern robotic technology is already contributing to higher quality products and shorter turnaround times in every sector, performing a wide range of human activities with accuracy. These robots are proving to be effective and prone to fewer errors, require less downtime and are more cost-effective. Robotic trends such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration and rapid design have intensified and have added to an increased demand for manufacturing robots.
Sessions: Robotic Solutions to Create Better Work Environments and Employee Retention; Getting Started in Industrial Robotics: What You Need to Know Workshop; Starting Small & Calculating the True ROI for Robotic Investment; Benefits of Robotic Automation Systems & ASTM Standards
- Automation: Cloud computing, AI and other cutting-edge technologies are revolutionizing manufacturing. Attendees will see how they can adapt these solutions to target sustainability, productivity, supply chain issues, workforce shortages and more.
Sessions: Small Manufacturers Can Overcome Custom Automation Challenges; Evaluating Business Case ROI & Affordable Automation Solutions; Robots Prepare Manufacturers for an Unpredictable Future; What to Understand Before Moving Your Shop to a Lights-Out Operation; Technology to Bridge the Skills Gap in Finishing.
- Smart Manufacturing: Experts will discuss strategies for streamlining operations through predictive planning, cybersecurity measures and the development of digital twin technology, among other tactics. Attendees can also participate in an in-depth boot camp that covers essential aspects of smart manufacturing.
Sessions: Improve Workforce Recruitment & Retention Through Technology; Communicate & Prepare Your Shop for the Factory of the Future; Getting Started with Data Collection & MES Systems
- 3D/Additive Manufacturing: These sessions will explore one of the fastest-growing technologies for manufacturing complex, highly detailed parts. Topics will include business considerations, industrial applications and smart simulations and portable factories for additive manufacturing.
Sessions: Fundamentals of Additive Manufacturing for Fabricators; Pressure Components for Critical Applications and Quality Program Implementation; Additive Metal Binder Jetting & Post Process Cleaning.
In addition to the conference, an expansive show floor will deliver access to more than 1,400 exhibiting companies and suppliers showcasing the latest products and innovations across every facet of the industry. Attendees can also look forward to networking opportunities with industry peers, leaders, buyers and manufacturers.
For more information and to register, go to fabtechexpo.com.