Manufacturing technology trade shows are the place to see the latest in manufacturing technology and learn about industry advancements. These events offer attendees the chance to explore the latest industrial machines and industry-related software. Getting the chance to physically interact with new technologies and easily meet with experts has made trade shows a necessity for growing the manufacturing industry.
The benefits of manufacturing technology trade shows extend beyond just these interactions. Industry shows also provide an opportunity to gather the manufacturing community to discuss the industry’s biggest challenges and strategize ways to resolve these issues. With attendees including representatives from companies of all sizes, people with diverse manufacturing backgrounds, and industry thought leaders, there’s no shortage of knowledge and viewpoints to further these important discussions.
For anyone on the fence about attending manufacturing technology trade shows, take a deep dive into all the benefits these shows offer to manufacturing professionals.
Explore New Products and Technology
One of the main benefits of manufacturing technology trade shows is the chance to explore new products in person. In fact, 92% of trade show attendees say they are looking for new products at these events. Getting hands-on experience with machines and tech is the best way to understand products’ capabilities.
The numerous products on display at manufacturing technology trade shows enable attendees to efficiently review multiple offerings. Attendees can then make a more informed decision on the right products for their company. This benefits manufacturers looking for specific technologies.
However, the versatility of products on display offers attendees the opportunity to discover new technologies as well. Advanced manufacturing technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, automation, and artificial intelligence-driven software are often present at manufacturing technology trade shows.
Having these smart technologies at events helps manufacturers learn more about their capabilities and industrial applications. Though attendees may not initially be in the market for these products, the opportunity to get hands-on experience with this technology helps them see how it could benefit their production operations. Even if it’s not in their current strategy, manufacturers will likely adjust their roadmaps to adopt these technologies in the future.
Implementing new products and cutting-edge technologies helps manufacturers maintain their competitive edge as the industry advances. By attending manufacturing technology trade shows, industry professionals can compare products and find solutions in a matter of days.
Overcome Manufacturing Challenges
New products and advanced technologies are a major draw — but they’re not the only benefit of attending this type of trade show. These events attract companies of all sizes and feature multiple industries from throughout the manufacturing sector. An event with a large and diverse attendance base offers a wide range of knowledge.
Manufacturing technology trade shows attract industry leaders looking to discuss the current and future state of industry. These experts often serve as speakers at events, but they are also there as a resource for attendees. With so much knowledge gathered in one place, attendees will find numerous ideas and strategies for solving manufacturing challenges.
There are sweeping issues affecting the whole industry, including the workforce shortage, the skills gap, and barriers to technology adoption. These prevalent issues will continue to be topics of discussions at manufacturing technology trade shows, but attendees also have the chance to discuss more granular issues within their own operations.
Whether looking for ways to improve efficiency, cut costs, or increase productivity, manufacturers can leverage the expertise at these events to help overcome their main challenges. A bonus of having discussions on-site at trade shows is access to all the technologies on the show floor that can aid in resolving these challenges. So, manufacturers can get actionable advice and seek out potential solutions all in one location.
Expand Professional Network
Having experts available to connect with is a great opportunity to discuss manufacturing challenges, but it’s also a chance for attendees to grow their professional network. A robust professional network opens opportunities and helps individuals with career advancement.
Everyone an attendee meets at a manufacturing technology trade show can become a professional connection. Chance meetings on the show floor are a great benefit, but attendees can also easily seek out specific exhibitors and speakers to connect with.
These connections enable attendees to elevate their industry knowledge and understand new products and technologies that can help their companies. Additionally, having these professional contacts is a huge asset for attendees looking to advance their manufacturing careers. They are especially useful for attendees who are just entering the workforce and looking to get a foot in the door in manufacturing.
Organic networking opportunities are a benefit of attending manufacturing technology trade shows, but these events usually have dedicated networking sessions as well. From specific programs for like-minded professionals to show floor happy hours, there are often a variety of networking events built into the schedule. Industry trade shows allow attendees to significantly expand their professional networks and set them up for continued success in the manufacturing field.
Experience Manufacturing Technology Trade Shows
Clearly, there are multiple benefits to attending manufacturing technology trade shows. At these events, manufacturing professionals can get hands-on exposure to new products and cutting-edge technologies, learn strategies to combat production problems, and grow their professional networks. Manufacturers shouldn’t pass up the chance to attend these events and participate in driving the future of industry.
If you’re a manufacturing professional looking for manufacturing technology trade shows to attend, consider attending EASTEC, which takes place every two years in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Or if you’re looking for events in other regions, check out the Manufacturing Technology Series.