The additive manufacturing industry is a constantly changing industry. There’s no better way to stay informed of all the developments then to attend one or more of the upcoming conferences. Taking into account that the ongoing pandemic could alter plans at short notice, various shows are offering a range of options for attendees including hybrid events and generous cancelation policies.
But if you can attend in person, one of the more educationally focused conferences is the Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) conference to be held in Chicago this year from April 3 through April 7.
The Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) is a global community focused on accelerating the education and advancement of additive manufacturing and 3D printing. I have been fortunate enough to attend this event many times. It truly is unique, unlike any conference, tradeshow, or exposition I have ever attended. The AMUG association that develops the conference is a member-run, not-for-profit enterprise. More than 100 companies participate as sponsors and exhibitors at this event. Plus, the conference is structured to give you plenty of opportunities to connect. Networking is a key element of this conference and is always encouraged. The unique immersive interaction available at the conference is about creating a community that helps each other and that expands the use of this technology.
As in years’ past, this year’s conference boasts a number of educational opportunities. For example, attendees arriving early can take advantage of either a 2-day course or a facility tour. This year’s tour will be at DMG MORI to explore its AM process chain. The two-day course is on establishing an additive manufacturing facility for critical part production.
Of course, throughout the conference attendees will meet fellow users of this technology and have ample opportunity to exchange experiences and ideas, as well as make new contacts.
A highlight of the conference is the technical competition. Attendees can show their unique AM projects and see other amazing applications of this technology. It’s a great way to learn new techniques, some of which can help you advance your career. New this year will be a Members Choice Award, where attendees select their favorite entry. A panel of DINO judges will select Advanced Finishing and Advanced Concepts winners.
And don’t miss the speakers and the AMUG Innovators Award. The keynote speakers this year will be Kevin Czinger, founder, lead inventor, and CEO of Divergent 3D and Czinger Vehicles; and Ellen Lee, technical leader additive manufacturing research at Ford Motor Company. These two will cover the present and future of manufacturing in the automotive industry.
An always popular presentation is the Innovators Award, where the winner is interviewed on stage and you have a chance to ask questions. Andy Christensen is this year’s recipient of the esteemed award. He was founder and president of Medical Modeling Inc. and is currently an adjunct professor in the Department of Radiology at the University of Cincinnati. AMUG bestows this award on those who have cultivated innovative ideas that have advanced the additive manufacturing industry.
You will also have a chance to meet with vendors at the AM Expo. Check out their products and learn more about AM can fit your needs.
And, of course, there will be a number of interesting presentations, panel discussions, and workshops on making the most out of additive technology, whether for individual use or as part of a manufacturing operation. Check out the AMUG site to see more conference details and to register. It’s a worthwhile experience.
