Why Attend

	Embrace New Technologies and Understand the Impact of AI and IoT AI, IoT and other new technologies are causing major disruptions throughout manufacturing. Our exclusive tours at the University of North Texas’ Additive Manufacturing Lab will give you access to some of the most innovative advancements and technology. Dive deeper into their Aconity MIDI SLM System, and Optomec LENS 750 System—their cutting-edge 3-D laser metal printers. Learn more here.

Manage Disruption to Enhance Growth and Profitability The deluge of technological disruption facing manufacturers today represents enormous opportunities for growth, as well as challenges. For every $1.00 spent in manufacturing, another $1.89 is added to the economy. (Source: National Association of Manufacturers ) At the Smart Manufacturing Summit, you’ll gain real-world solutions from manufacturing peers who have faced similar issues to help you develop a comprehensive strategy to maintain organizational growth in a tumultuous time.

	Attract and Retain the Right Manufacturing Talent There are nearly 12.5 million manufacturing workers in the United States, accounting for 8.5 percent of the workforce. (Source: National Association of Manufacturers ) As new technologies challenge manufacturers to think differently, so must your employees. Gain valuable insights to help your organization attract extraordinary leaders, hire the right talent, develop your employees and retain them to support the growth of your organization.

Become a Beacon of Innovation Manufacturers have experienced tremendous growth over the past couple decades, making them more “lean” and helping them become more competitive globally. (Source: National Association of Manufacturers ) Hear from manufacturing CEOs with unique experience introducing new technologies and streamlining processes, all while maintaining product integrity and consistency. Learn more about what it takes to create a fearless culture of learning and innovation.

	Take Advantage of Unparalleled Networking Some events tout networking but don’t deliver the right audience and don’t provide the adequate time or format to share ideas and collaborate with fellow attendees. The 2018 Smart Manufacturing Summit will bring together 250 manufacturing CEOs, which means you’ll be networking specifically with those who have walked in your shoes--providing learning opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. Get inspired by CEOs from across the nation. .

Get out of the Classroom to Tour AllianceTexas AllianceTexas is a 26,000-acre master-planned, mixed-use community located in north Fort Worth that is home to to more than 480 companies and 48,000 employees. We’ll tour its groundbreaking multi-modal Alliance Global Logistics Hub, including one of the nation's largest intermodal yards, with two Class I rail lines and the world's first industrial airport. We’ll also tour one of the great 21st-century manufacturing complexes housed there.

WHAT 2018 ATTENDEES HAD TO SAY:

"Breaks the cycle of inward thinking...a couple of days of exposure to different approaches provides an opportunity to reflect."

"Great chance to hear ideas outside your own industry. Being ‘on the move’ with tours and roundtables makes it much more engaging than other conferences."

"Super good speakers. Best event I’ve been to in a long time. Really got me thinking about key issues. Well worth the time."

"The experience and knowledge from all of the executives in the room was very powerful and valuable to running my business. Very informative!"