Michael Reader
From September 10 through the 15th, over 80,000 industrial decision-makers will be attending the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) at McCormick Place in Chicago. There, ideas will spark and answers will be found, ranging from technology challenges to innovative ways to succeed in a globally-competitive market.
More than 15,000 new machine tools, controls, computers, software, components, systems and processes that can improve efficiency will be showcased by over 1,800 exhibitors representing the finest manufacturers in the world.
The show will feature distinct pavilions catering to specific applications or processes, including metal cutting, tooling and workholding systems, metal forming and fabricating/laser processes, abrasive machining, controls and CAD-CAM, EDM, and environmental /quality assurance among others.
There will also be conferences throughout the duration of the show. According the organizers, “Sessions will explore innovative as well as revered technologies, business development and optimization, plus workforce efficiency and productivity. Special emphasis will be placed on maintaining focus on short- and long-term goals during a tough economic environment.” The show will also focus on the subject of “Reshoring” or bringing manufacturing back to the U.S.
The Upper Midwest, which includes Chicago, has had a long history in the manufacturing industry, with factories and shops beginning to appear shortly after the expansion of the railroads in the mid-1800s, and quickly developing into a highly influential area for our country. It seems only appropriate that one of the most important manufacturing shows in the world take place in the Midwest. Attended by thousands of interested people from around the world, IMTS is truly a spectacle not to be missed.
