Emerging technologies, expert insight and high industry attendance showcased at North America’s premier manufacturing tradeshow and conference in Chicago
FABTECH 2017, North America’s largest metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing event, hosted more than 1,700 exhibiting companies and a total of 44,935 attendees from 120 countries to celebrate manufacturing’s industrial evolution last week in Chicago at McCormick Place.
With more than 750,000 square feet of exhibit space, FABTECH provided attendees with access to the industry’s leading companies, latest innovations and insight into current and future trends. The four-day expo included the most extensive education programming in its history, as well as a stacked lineup of expert-led panels and keynote presentations.
The expo also put on special events that attracted large audiences, along with sparking further discussions about featured topics such as workplace collaboration, 
innovation and creativity. Highlights included a new keynote format, “FABx Tech Talks” given by visionary leaders, the unveiling of the Albert Paley-Jesse James metal sculpture project and the popular annual Industry Night event, held at Soldier Field.
“We thank our exhibitors, attendees, presenters and the great city of Chicago for propelling FABTECH 2017 to be one of the most successful events in our history,” said Mark Hoper, FABTECH show co-manager and FMA SVP of Expositions and Media. “Perhaps it was the celebratory nature of the Industrial Evolution theme, but every person who participated in the show had a palpable level of enthusiasm that radiated across the show floor. Participants discovered new potential collaboration partners to continue manufacturing’s evolution in addition to learning innovative methods to improve their individual business performance.”
The advanced processes driving manufacturing’s continued transformation were on display at the event this year. Hundreds of live product demonstrations showcased the most innovative new technologies, giving attendees an unparalleled glimpse into the industry’s future. The new 3D/Additive Manufacturing Pavilion and Theater welcomed thousands of interested industry professionals for tech tours, presentations, panels and more.
Several of FABTECH’s most attended education tracks also covered advanced technologies, such as automation/smart manufacturing and robotics. Conventional tracks like stamping and lasers also incorporated how these new technologies can be implemented to improve traditional operations. The workforce development track delved into the effect the industry’s transformation would have on ensuring companies are able to hire the right talent.
Adding to the excitement, FABTECH unveiled a new logo and brand identity for the FABTECH series of events on the last day of the show. With its more modern look, the new logo better conveys the current and future direction of the FABTECH brand.
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To learn more about FABTECH 2017 and FABTECH 2018, which will be held in Atlanta, go to fabtechexpo.com.
About FABTECH
FABTECH is North America’s largest collaboration of technology, equipment and knowledge in the metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing industries. The event provides a powerfully aligned hands-on, face-to-face business growth experience, attracting more than 1,700 exhibitors and 45,000 attendees. The event is made possible by its five co-sponsors, all of whom represent the varied and diverse makeup of the manufacturing industry. They include the American Welding Society, the Chemical Coaters Association International, the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association International, the Precision Metalforming Association and SME. Read more about FABTECH’s co-sponsors here.
