18 Sep IMTS 2014, Mccormick Place, Chicago
Every two years, Mccormick Place in Chicago hosts the International Manufacturing Technology Show or better known as IMTS.
Earlier this month we attended the show, along with 114,145 other registrants from 112 countries. There were 2,035 exhibiting companies filling the 1.282 million net square foot space, showcasing everything from fabrication and metal cutting to abrasive machining to environmental and quality assurance.
“The show had a remarkable array of new and emerging technologies that will continue to revolutionize the manufacturing world. These innovations, including digital data integration, automation/robotics, in-line quality assurance, additive manufacturing, and traditional equipment, offer solutions to all manufacturers who seek increased productivity and lower cost. Sold signs could be seen on machines throughout the show,” this is quoted from the IMTS Insider article and I couldn’t have said it better. It brings the industry together under one roof and at one time, to discuss new ideas and to gain insight to improving production.
IMTS also recognizes the need to get next generation interested in the trades, by hosting the Smartforce Student Summit. Some 17,767 elementary, middle and high school students were in attendance this year. “IMTS introduces educators, students and parents to exciting new innovations in manufacturing technology. The Student Summit is designed to allow young people to interact with today’s manufacturing industry.” The students are not only get to enjoy and learn from the exhibits but get to discuss the manufacturing profession with young people “MTAmbassadors” already working and enjoying a career in manufacturing.
Robert was excited to see that, not only himself, the trades industry as a whole see the need to entice the next generation towards skilled trades.