IMTS Spark and IMTS Network Connect the Manufacturing Community Digitally

The International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) has launched previews of IMTS Network and IMTS spark, two digital destinations to connect and educate the manufacturing technology marketplace at a time when travel and gatherings are limited.

IMTS Network, which will broadcast live September 14–18, provides an entire channel of original programming — more than a dozen different shows in all — that features powerful ideas for productivity and inspiring stories from the people who shape the future of manufacturing. Programming will remain available on-demand at IMTS.com/network.

“IMTS Network is a bold venture that combines the learning power of TED Talks, the infotainment of the Discovery Channel and the human interest and energy of Good Morning America,” says Peter R. Eelman, vice president and CXO at The Association For Manufacturing Technology (AMT), which owns and produces IMTS. “After the live event week concludes, content will be archived for on-demand availability at IMTS.com/network, which will become one of the industry’s premiere information destinations.”

IMTS Spark, presented in conjunction with Gardner Business Media, features a mix of live exhibitor demos, live interviews, daily updates, hosted shows and Q&A interactions. It launches September 21 and runs through March 15, 2021. Content available to registered visitors also includes reports from the IMTS Conference, AM In-Depth, IMTS Investor Forum, Parts Cleaning Series, Sustainable Manufacturing and MTForecast conferences. IMTS Spark also features Shop Talk, an educational series by Modern Machine Shop that includes conversation with Top Shop honorees. Join MMS each Tuesday in October for sessions on topics such as Key Drivers of Revenue and Profit Margin at Top Shops and Secrets to Running a Successful CNC Machining Business.

IMTS Spark will also serve as a much-needed vehicle for making connections. Registrants can join coffee chats, lunch and learns and happy hours to network with fellow manufacturers, technology builders, OEMs, industry legends, economists, investors, reporters and others who are passionate about advanced manufacturing.

“The year 2020 has shown the critical role manufacturers play in the safety and security of our country,” adds Rick Kline Jr., President of Gardner Business Media. “Those who want to ramp up digital capabilities, shorten supply chains and prepare their business for the way forward won’t want to miss the live demonstrations and programs that will help them optimize processes for speed, precision, and performance.”

“IMTS Spark registrants will be amazed with the machine connectivity and production efficiencies just on the horizon,” adds Eelman. “The AMT's Emerging Technology Center and Start Up Showcase will feature developments such as how Artificial Intelligence and machine learning improve visual inspection, and our coverage of projects from Oak Ridge National Laboratory will unveil some truly transformative technologies.”

To prepare for IMTS spark, Kline suggests managers gather their teams, list their five top operational challenges, register for a free MySpark Planner account and begin researching solutions.

“Signing up for one of the upcoming coffee chats will also help,” says Kline. “They are scheduled for September 8 and 9. We’ll explore the showrooms from leading technology providers and help registrants maximize their experience.”