Published 9/9/2024

10 Tips to Make the Most of IMTS

IMTS only happens every two years. Here’s how to make the most of your time at the 2024 show.

Basics

Stephanie Hendrixson

Executive Editor, Additive Manufacturing

Come with a plan. IMTS is an enormous show! To make efficient use of your time, prioritize based on your goals. Are you looking for a specific piece of equipment? Trying to learn more about a particular topic? Research what (and who) you want to see.
Use the app. The IMTS app includes the complete exhibitor directory, maps, conference schedule and more. It’s an easy way to plan your visit and find your way on site. If you created a schedule with Show Planner online, you can access it through this app.
Make time to learn. IMTS provides ample learning opportunities, from show floor talks to speakers on the IMTS+ Main Stage to add-on conferences and workshops. Consider attending one of the co-located educational events such as the IMTS 2024 Conference, IMTS Elevate Job Shops, Industrial Laser Conference, Parts Cleaning Conference, Succeeding with Powder Bed Fusion Workshop, The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) or Supply Chain Forum.
Divide and conquer. If you’re attending with colleagues, you may want to split up in order to cover more ground. Make a game plan to prevent duplicating efforts, and plan to meet up at the end of the day or week to compare notes.
Seek out networking opportunities. IMTS attracts more than 80,000 manufacturing professionals. Being at the show presents opportunities to meet smart people, make connections, ask questions and learn from others. Bring business cards or set up a QR code to exchange contact information and keep in touch.
Make yourself comfortable. Wear comfortable shoes — ideally, pack two pairs and switch each day. Consider bringing water, snacks, mints, hand sanitizer, an extra layer of clothing if you run cold, or anything that might make your days easier. Take advantage of lounge areas to grab a quick rest as needed.
Bring a battery backup. A portable battery pack makes it easy to recharge your phone and stay connected on the go. It can be a lifesaver if you need to hail a rideshare or look up directions to dinner at the end of a long day.
Record what you learn. Come prepared with a pen and a notebook for jotting down notes, or a fully charged phone (see above) for recording voice memos and snapping photos or video.
Leave time to wander. As important as it is to plan your time, one of the great things about IMTS is how its scale enables discovery. Block off time to walk through exhibits with no destination in mind, stopping to investigate anything that captures your interest.
Anticipate future needs. You might be attending IMTS to fill a specific and immediate equipment need, but be sure to also think about where your business is headed next. IMTS only happens every other year, so make time to investigate technologies you might need two (or more!) years into the future.

About the Author

Stephanie Hendrixson

Stephanie Hendrixson reports on 3D printing technology and applications as executive editor for Additive Manufacturing. She is also co-host of The Cool Parts Show, a video series that highlights unique, unusual and weird 3D printed parts, and co-host and creator of the AM Radio podcast. SUBSCRIBE HERE