FABTECH 2009 poised to provide solutions when recovery begins

Many economists are predicting that the recession will end and the economy will begin to rebound by the end of 2009. Scheduled for the middle of the fourth quarter, the FABTECH® International & AWS Welding Show, including METALFORM, is timed to provide manufacturers with the latest tools, technologies, and processes to enable them to take advantage of the recovery period.

Cosponsored by the American Welding Society (AWS), Fabricators & Manufacturers Association Intl. (FMA), Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), and Precision Metalforming Association (PMA), FABTECH is expected to draw some 35,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors to Chicago's McCormick Place Nov. 15-18. It is the largest tradeshow in North America dedicated to showcasing a full spectrum of metal forming, fabricating, stamping, tube and pipe, and welding equipment and technology.

"Those involved in evaluating and purchasing new equipment, products, or services in the industry will find the most comprehensive lineup of the industry's hottest innovations in action and gain invaluable knowledge by attending the show," said John Catalano, FABTECH show manager.

"For exhibitors, this event provides a unique opportunity to showcase products and services in front of the industry's most targeted buying audience. With our expected attendance, we think this ultimate gathering of buyers and sellers is proof positive that manufacturing — a key indicator of an improving economy — will thrive when the economy does pick up," said Catalano.

Attendees also will have an opportunity to take advantage of several educational opportunities.

On Monday, Nov. 16, Jeff Knauf, president of Medalist Laserfab Inc., will moderate a panel discussion titled "Best Practices for Thriving in Tough Times" on business strategies for surviving and thriving during an uncertain economy. On Tuesday, Nov. 17, William Haas, client program manager for The Shaw Group, will lead a discussion called "Energy – The Outlook Is Bright, But Where Will It Lead Us?" that will include experts from the surging wind and solar energy sectors and oil and gas industries to discuss trends and forecasts, government issues, and what it all means to current suppliers.

Solutions Showcase seminars will offer managers and business owners solutions and strategies for operating a more efficient and competitive business. Located on the show floor, these free, expert-led sessions cover topics such as maintaining sales focus in a down economy, smart strategies for preserving stakeholder relationships, protecting a company from bankruptcy, what the wind energy market means for metal manufacturing, the growth of solar energy, the essentials of job shop marketing, and social media 101.

Technical seminars, conferences, and professional programs also are offered on topics from metal forming, fabricating, and welding to economic, operation, and management issues.

Professional welders will compete on the show floor Nov. 15-17 for a chance to win a grand prize of $2,500 and recognition as the best welder in America. Entrants will be required to make a pipe-to-pipe plate weld on a pretacked joint in five minutes or less, and AWS certified welding inspectors will judge the work.

To register for the show, call 800-733-4763 or 313-425-3000, ext. 4500, or visit www.fabtechexpo.com.