IMTS has more to offer than you can imagine. Discovering new technology and meeting new people is part of its magic. With 1.2 million square feet of exhibit space, not to mention conferences, attractions, and networking events, creating an efficient plan for your visit to the largest manufacturing trade show in the Western Hemisphere is essential. Explore the advice and links provided in this article to ensure a hiccup won’t cut into your valuable show time.
1. Meet With Your Team.
No matter your role at IMTS, before you head to Chicago, you need to meet with your team to determine your company’s IMTS goals. What solutions do you need? Are you shopping for a new machine, looking for a faster process on your shop floor, or coming to make new contacts? No matter the reason, you want to set your goals and establish ways to measure your ROO now.
2. Know the IMTS Fundamentals.
You can find loads of information at IMTS.com/About. Here are the basics:
Show Dates: Sept. 9-14, 2024
Location: McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois
Show Hours by Building:
East and West buildings: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
North and South buildings: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Smartforce Student Summit (East Building, Level 2): 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (Mon.-Fri) and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (Saturday)
Register at IMTS.com/Register. Teams of five or more receive a discount of $15 off per individual.
3. Determine Transportation.
If you’re flying – make your flight. Chicago O’Hare International Airport has more airline options but is 20 miles away. Midway is smaller but closer at 10 miles away. Both offer “L” stations to downtown Chicago. If you are driving, make sure you know where to park (McCormickPlace.com/Parking).
Hint: Parking usually fills up early at IMTS – so be early. You may purchase parking passes in advance to reserve your spot at McCormick Place.com/Parking. You can also take our free shuttle from one of our hotels, a taxi or Uber, or Metra. You can even ride a Divvy bike!
4. Engage With the Next Generation.
IMTS hosts upwards of 20,000 students and educators at the Smartforce Student Summit, located in its new location in the East Building, Level 2. The Summit provides fun and engaging experiences centered on the manufacturing technology classroom of the future and encourages students to pursue career pathways to manufacturing. Learn more at IMTS.com/Student.
5. Save Time for Networking.
IMTS is the biggest manufacturing party in the Western Hemisphere. You, along with more than 100,000 of your colleagues, can enjoy networking receptions through one of the ELEVATE programs (Job Shops, Women Make Manufacturing Move, and LATAM) or other conference events. Browse the conferences at IMTS.com/Conferences.
Bonus: For AMT Members Only.
If you are an AMT member, there are some perks for you:
The AMT Member Lounge, located in the South Building (S103), is an exclusive space for members to meet, connect, and finish the business started on the show floor. Please join us for AMT members-only Power Hour happy hour and networking events on Tuesday and Thursday at 4:30-6:30 p.m.
International Briefing Breakfast. On Wednesday, AMT’s Global Services team will present the opportunities available for your company to break into key regions around the world and expand your brand abroad. Registration is required. To register, see the QR code on Page 21 or visit Showpro.cdsreg.com/IIBB0924.
We look forward to seeing you at IMTS 2024! Register now at IMTS.com/Register.
To read the rest of the IMTS Issue of MT Magazine, click here.
