IMTS 2016 Snags Highest Number of Exhibiting Companies in Show’s History
September 26, 2016
The 31st edition of the IMTS 2016 (International Manufacturing Technology Show), which was held Sept. 12-17 at Chicago’s McCormick Place, drew the highest number of exhibiting companies in the show’s history, with 2,407.
The number of attendees was the 3rd highest ever, with 115,612, and the size of the showfloor, 1,370,256 net square feet, also was the third largest ever. In addition, there was 76 million pounds more weight brought into this year’s show at McCormick.
“IMTS has grown not only in size, but in the overall scope of manufacturing,” saidPeter R. Eelman, vice president – Exhibitions & Business Development at AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, which owns and manages IMTS.
He added, “There are more compelling reasons for people to attend. Whether they come to research new technology, evaluate vendors before purchasing, find solutions or connect with the leaders in the manufacturing industry, there is simply no substitute for attending IMTS.”
Eelman made a point to say that IMTS is about more than sheer numbers; “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the visitors, exhibitors, and vendors who contributed to the success and quality of IMTS, and made this event safe, productive and forward-thinking.”
During the show, a record number of more than 17,000 students, parents and educators visited the Smartforce Student Summit, which offered nine challenges, each designed for students to discover and use technologies utilized in advanced manufacturing, including CAD/CAM software, robotics, 3D printing, machining, tooling, metrology, automation and welding.
“Students were able to do so much more than observe and interact. They could actually use the technology in a way that gave them a real-world preview of the industry and various manufacturing careers,” said Greg Jones, vice president, Smartforce Development, AMT.
In the “Build It!” area, experienced teams of mechatronics students (those with mechanical and electronic skills) worked with waterjet experts from WARDJet to plan and assemble a high-end waterjet system.
WARDJet donated two waterjets valued at more than $200,000 to contest winners including the Missouri University of Science and Technology machining lab.
IMTS 2018 will be held Sept. 10-15 at McCormick Place.
Check out video clips from IMTS 2016 HERE.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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