SME Sends Hundreds to IMTS

The manufacturing technology community assembled in Chicago this year for IMTS 2022. SME was in attendance with a robust presence on the exhibit floor amounting to a total of seven different offerings. This included everything from product and training demonstrations to member programming, award recognitions, and networking events.

It was exciting to bring the SME member community together on day three of IMTS. Over 130 SME members registered for the member meet-up activities. The SME meet-up activities were hosted by SME Chicagoland Chapter 5. Individuals participated in programming throughout the day where they had the opportunity to learn about new manufacturing trends, participate in hands-on virtual reality training, network with industry professionals, and celebrate the accomplishments of local SME chapters. One theme that was constant amongst SME exhibits was the focus on advanced manufacturing and immersive virtual reality training solutions. Chad Schron, Senior Director, Tooling U-SME provided an augmented reality presentation followed by a hands-on demonstration highlighting the new capabilities of virtual reality within the manufacturing space. “It’s programming like this that helps bring the manufacturing community together,” said Sheronda Carr, Senior Director of Membership, SME. “A professional membership is important and it’s all about the people and resources that will help advance your career. Our goal is to continue to build a supportive manufacturing community where all people can thrive, no matter where you’re at in your manufacturing career.”

Whether you’re a student, young industry professional, or distinguished leader in manufacturing, SME provides you with access to materials and resources to expand your knowledge base. This was the type of member blend that was visible throughout the event. Not only were industry professionals in attendance, but over 40 students turned out to the member meet-up from institutions including University of Northern Iowa, Waterloo Career Center, and Hawkeye Community College. “The participation of our young student members is wonderful to see,” said Krishna Vuppala, chapter officer, SME Waterloo Chapter 186. “These are the SME members that will maintain the existing chapters but continue to build and grow our overall community. The SME community is in good hands and the future is bright.”

The local SME chapters are the lifeblood of SME membership and help build a network that is valuable on a number of levels. Through the SME chapters, members have a chance to meet potential customers, partners, and employers, and gain leadership opportunities they may have never had before. That’s why taking time to recognize the achievements and accomplishments of local chapters is truly important. Showing appreciation to the local SME chapters gives validation to their work and provides an example of what success looks like. During the afternoon of the SME member meet-up, SME Chicagoland Chapter 5 received a certificate in recognition of their 86 years of service. Bob Iossi, Technical Engineer - Sales, Better by Design, LLC received the certificate on behalf of Chicagoland Chapter 5. The commitment and dedication of long-standing members are critical for the health and growth of the SME community.

SME is committed to helping advance manufacturing across industries in the best ways possible. As an association, one way to achieve this progress is through cooperation with other associations and participation in industry events such as IMTS. The ultimate goal is to improve manufacturing across the board and collaboration with industry partners is key. Our time at IMTS was valuable and we’re excited to carry that momentum as we continue to build member programming in the future.