Peter Eelman, the chief experience officer of AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology and “Show Boss” for IMTS – The International Manufacturing Technology Show, is the recipient of the Choose Chicago’s Tourism Ambassador Award.
On June 6, 2024, Eelman was one of three honorees of Choose Chicago’s Tourism Ambassador Award, thanks to his key contributions to the city and the global manufacturing technology industry. With a career spanning over four decades, Eelman’s leadership has positioned Chicago as a key hub for innovation, bringing the best minds together at IMTS every even-numbered year to uplift and push manufacturing technology forward.
“As I approach the twilight of my career, I sincerely appreciate being recognized by Choose Chicago as someone who represents and promotes the greatest city in the world,” says Eelman. “It has been a joy to journey from a first-time visit to recognition now as an ambassador over my career arc.”
IMTS showcases and exhibits cutting-edge advancements in manufacturing technology. Builders, distributors, experts, and more from around the world come to Chicago to connect and help improve our future by innovating on manufacturing’s hardest problems.
Eelman began at the Wiedemann Division of Warner & Swasey, where he played a crucial role in producing IMTS 1980. After 16 years on the exhibitor side, Eelman joined AMT and has maintained the status of IMTS as a premier U.S. trade show. Initiatives started by Eelman such as IMTS.com, IMTSTV, and the fixed-price “Custom Block Package” system have set new industry benchmarks and prove his forward-thinking approach to event management and technology integration.
His influence extends internationally – Eelman has organized major manufacturing events around the world, including China, Japan, Brazil, Mexico, and Europe. His international perspective and expertise foster technological exchange and underscore his importance as an ambassador for manufacturing technology.
Eelman’s commitment to Chicago is as deep as his dedication to the manufacturing industry. Serving on advisory boards and committees such as the Chicago Labor Management Council and the Choose Chicago Advisory Council, Eelman continues to promote the city’s economic and cultural vibrancy. His involvement with the Friends of McCormick Place has also shaped the development of one of Chicago’s most iconic venues.
With this new honor, Eelman continues to champion the Windy City as a leading destination for innovation and international trade. His legacy at AMT and contributions to the global manufacturing community make him a fitting representative for Chicago's spirit of progress and collaboration.
Connect with Eelman at IMTS 2024, Sept. 9-14 at McCormick Place in Chicago. Register now at IMTS.com/Register.
Read more in the press release.
