The countdown is on for FABTECH 2023, North America’s premier metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing event, set to captivate the manufacturing industry from September 11 – 14 at Chicago’s McCormick Place. With anticipation running high, industry professionals are gearing up for an event that promises to deliver cutting-edge technology, transformative education, and unmatched networking opportunities.
Tracy Garcia, CEM, FABTECH Group Director at SME, expressed excitement, saying, “In just a few days, we eagerly look forward to uniting tens of thousands of manufacturing professionals, industry leaders, professionals, and innovators alike, to create a truly impactful experience at FABTECH 2023. Here, the industry’s sharpest minds convene under one roof, and education seamlessly evolves into strategy, innovation translates to efficiency, and networking solidifies partnerships. FABTECH 2023 stands as a testament to our commitment to progress in manufacturing, offering invaluable insights and connections that drive personal growth and contribute to business success.”
Highlighted features of this year’s event include:
SHOW FLOOR: SPOTLIGHTING INNOVATIONS
FABTECH 2023 will present a comprehensive display of the industry’s progress, drawing in over 30,000 industry professionals. The dynamic show floor will feature more than 1,500 world-class suppliers, offering an extensive showcase of cutting-edge innovations. Here, attendees can witness the debut of 235 new exhibitors and over 500 new products, exemplifying the industry’s unwavering commitment to efficiency, sustainability, and technological advancement.
SPECIAL EVENTS: INSPIRING CONVERSATIONS
As part of FABTECH’s special events lineup, attendees will engage with manufacturing thought leaders who will be sharing insights on emerging trends and critical advancements shaping the industry. This dynamic lineup of thought leaders will delve into topics like AI, robotic technology, labor shortages, and workforce development, offering valuable knowledge to stay ahead of the curve.
Monday, September 11
- Panel Discussion: FABx Tech Talks (8:30 – 9:30 a.m. CT)
- Leadership Exchange: Advanced Manufacturing – Trends and Technologies Changing the Future of Metal Fabrication (12:30 – 1:30 p.m. CT)
Tuesday, September 12
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- Women of FABTECH: How Did I Get Here? My Pathway to Manufacturing (7:30 – 9:30 a.m. CT)
- Keynote: A Nasty Bit of Rough with David Feherty (8:30 – 9:30 a.m. CT)
- Leadership Exchange: Building the Future Workforce (12:30 – 1:30 p.m. CT)
Wednesday, September 13
- Keynote: Digital Leadership – The 5 Simple Habits of Digital Leaders (8:30 – 9:30 a.m. CT)
- Panel Discussion: Exploring Welding Apprenticeships and Talent Development (10:30 – 11:30 a.m. CT)
- Leadership Exchange: Advancing Robotics in the Fabrication Metal Industry (12:30 – 1:30 p.m. CT)
- Panel Discussion: Breaking Boundaries: Empowering Women in Welding (3 – 4:30 p.m. CT)
Thursday, September 14
- Panel Discussion: State of Manufacturing 2023 (8:30 – 9:30 a.m. CT)
- Leadership Exchange: Financing Business: Sources of Funding for Business Owners (10 – 11 a.m. CT)
CONFERENCE PROGRAM: NAVIGATING INDUSTRY TRENDS
FABTECH 2023’s conference program offers an extensive array of over 180 sessions and workshops, unveiling the latest trends shaping modern manufacturing. Guided by industry experts, these sessions provide actionable insights and strategies to tackle production challenges. From fundamental to advanced knowledge, the conference caters to all experience levels, ensuring practical knowledge for immediate application in every session.
Through these sessions, participants will engage with crucial industry subjects, ranging from leveraging intelligent technologies to achieve operational excellence and incorporating robotics into metal fabrication, to effectively addressing labor shortages through automation. These focal areas will be highlighted for their integral role in bolstering productivity, maintaining competitiveness, and meeting customer expectations within the manufacturing realm.
NETWORK EVENTS: FORGING VALUABLE CONNECTIONS
FABTECH 2023 will host a range of networking opportunities, including the highly-anticipated Industry Night. This event will take place Tuesday, September 12, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. CT, and offers a valuable chance for both attendees and exhibitors to unwind while building connections with colleagues and professionals in the industry. With an early ticket priced at $75, attendees gain access to an engaging networking environment that includes entertainment, refreshments, and interactive experiences.
About FABTECH
FABTECH is North America’s largest metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing event. The event provides a convenient venue where you can meet with world-class suppliers, see the latest industry products and developments, and find the solutions to improve productivity and increase profits. FABTECH is made possible by its five event partners, 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.