The 2007 FABTECH International & AWS Welding Show returns to McCormick Place in Chicago.
Taking place November 11-14, it is the largest event in North America dedicated to showcasing a full spectrum of metal forming, fabricating, stamping, tube & pipe, and welding equipment and technology.
Cosponsored by the American Welding Society (AWS), Fabricators & Manufacturers Association Int’l (FMA) and Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) and supported by industry partner the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the event is expected to bring in an estimated 25,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors covering 475,000 square feet of exhibit space. Buyers and sellers from over 75 countries will gather at the FABTECH International & AWS Welding Show to exchange products and services, network with peers, see new products, problem-solve, and educate the industry on the latest technologies.
Educational Programs
The FABTECH International & AWS Welding Show offers a comprehensive array of educational offerings. Led by more than 100 experts, sessions emphasize industry issues and trends, management and developments in forming, fabricating, welding, and related technologies.
The American Welding Society will present a complete line up of in-depth conferences and seminars, RWMA Resistance Welding School and a Professional Program showcasing the latest in welding research and new commercial developments. Topics include; friction welding, hot wire welding & cladding, welding of stainless steels, visual inspection, pricing and profitability, arc welding, and more.
The FMA and SME will offer 45 technical sessions (including 25 new sessions this year) focused on management, operations/lean, automation, cutting, lasers, fabricating/forming, materials/processes, stamping, and tube & pipe. Sessions provide manufacturers involved in management, engineering, purchasing, product development and production, with the tools and techniques they need to advance their career.
Event Highlights
Leadership Summit: November 12 - “Addressing the Shortage of Skilled Workers in U.S. Manufacturing” – Key representatives from our nation’s government, local community, as well as the manufacturing sector, will come together for a lively and informative panel discussion to address one of the most important issues affecting the industry today. Experts and stakeholders will discuss the strategies, challenges and solutions to building a competitive manufacturing workforce in a challenging recruiting environment.
Executive Forum Breakfast: November 13 - “How Manufacturers Can Find Growth Opportunities in the New Economy” presented by Michael P. Collins, author and consultant, MPC Management. This important session, designed exclusively for company leaders and decision-makers, will outline steps small and mid-size manufacturers can take to not only survive, but also compete and grow in a global economy.
FREE Business Improvement Seminars: November 12-14 - Specifically oriented to the needs of managers and business owners, sessions include: Selecting Lean Building Blocks, featuring a panel discussion with three Lean experts on Monday, November 12; Job Shop Marketing, presented by Rob Edwards, The Job Shop Company on Tuesday, November 13; and Workforce Performance Improvement, presented by Mark Ernst, Ernst Enterprises, LLC on Wednesday, November 14.
Laser Cutting Certificate Program: November 12 – 14 - This certificate program will build on fundamental knowledge of CNC operations and part design for CO2 laser cutting. Attendees will apply this information in a uniquely designed hands-on demonstration area in the North Hall optimizing the operation of a CNC laser cutting machine. Visit www.sme.org/certificates for more information, including registration.
End User Forum: November 13 - This free forum brings together the end-user welding community for a one-of-a-kind, content-rich productivity learning experience. Presenters will cover real-life productivity issues and allow fabricators to engage in discussions with their peers away from the shop floor.
Innovation Theater: November 11-14 - Conveniently located on the show floor in the North Hall, the Innovation Theater will showcase free, 30-minute, exhibitor-led product and technology demonstrations throughout each day of the show. This is a unique opportunity for attendees to learn about some of the industry’s latest innovations, what a product does and how it can benefit their own operation.
Job Fair: November 12-13 - Representatives of companies seeking prospective employees will be on hand in the Job Fair/Workforce Development Pavilion to meet with professionals or students just entering the workforce. Employment service providers, schools and associations will also be in the pavilion to offer their support and assistance in workforce development and employment-related opportunities.
Professional Welders Competition: November 12-14 - Professional welders will compete on the show floor Monday and Tuesday for a chance to win a grand prize of $2,500 and recognition as the best welder in America. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, November 14.
Show Hours:
November 11: 11 a.m.– 4 p.m.
November 12: 9 a.m.– 5 p.m.
November 13: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
November 14: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.