Smartforce Amphitheater

Smartforce Amphitheater Schedule

East Building, Level 2 | Booth #121140

12:00 PM - 12:25 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Left Side) – Would There be an IMTS Without the APM?

Presenters:
Steve Dalessio
Dave Eastman
Devon Kuhrau
Molly Holleran
Christopher Gray

In 1851, the Robbins and Lawrence Armory, along with other American manufacturers, took the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London by storm with their demonstrations of the “American System of Manufacturing.” This significant, world-wide event, officially known as the “Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations,” was the first World's Fair. IMTS 2024 is a direct descendant of this great exhibition. The ingenuity and inspiration of Robbins and Lawrence is now housed within the walls and exhibitions at the American Precision Museum in Windsor, Vermont. The American Precision Museum combines the atmosphere of this original 19th century factory building (Robbins and Lawrence Armory) with a world-class collection of historic and modern-day machine tools. The mission of APM is to engage audiences in the stories of human ingenuity through the lens of manufacturing – learning from yesterday, exploring today, and imagining tomorrow. This mission will be carried out “live and interactively” during our Lightning Learning Sessions as the APM Staff and Board Members present images, videos and activities of this uniquely “American" museum while demonstrating its ongoing connections and commitment to today's advanced manufacturing landscape. You are invited to participate in our vision of "all will feel inspired, capable, and welcomed to participate as problem solvers and innovators to help make a positive difference in the world. Come and answer this question for yourself: “Would there be an IMTS without the APM?”

12:00 PM - 12:25 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Right Side) – Meet, Learn, & Discover with Kawasaki Robotics NEW 3D printed, Affordable, Industrial Educational Robot Astorino

Presenter:
Ken Keskeny, Training Instructor – Developer Kawasaki Robotics

Meet, learn & discover with Astorino, Kawasaki Robotics' new affordable 3D printed, 1 kg payload, 6-axis robot. This innovative robot is aimed at enabling educators to equip students with the foundational and real-world application skills needed for the ever-evolving manufacturing environment. Our expert trainer will provide a quick overview of Astorino, what it is and how it works, then demonstrates how it translates into learning programming on a full-size industrial robot that can handle anything from potato chips to cars. If you are curious about robotics and want a glimpse into the rich world of automation, then this is the session for you.

12:30 PM - 12:55 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Left Side) – What's My Next Step?

Presenters:
Hannah Bullard, Head of Client Relations – Tallo
Amy Barnes

There is so much to see and do at the Smartforce Student Summit @ IMTS, but how do you continue to explore possible careers in manufacturing? In this session, we will teach you to use Tallo to continue your career exploration and engage with employers. This free platform provides opportunities to explore career pathways, discover internship opportunities, find scholarships and more.

12:30 PM - 12:55 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Right Side) – NIMS & Universal Robots on Credentials and Career Pathways in Robotics & Automation

Presenters:
Stephanie Kobayashi
Sarah Mercado

Join NIMS and Universal Robots in a Lightning Learning Lab Session geared for educators interested in learning about career pathways and credentials in robotics and automation. Automation is redefining the manufacturing industry and today's workforce needs a new set of skills to prepare for careers in the industry. In 2024, NIMS launched a new robotics pathway to align industry needs to education learning outcomes. Learn about these credentials and how Universal Robots Education Program can enable teaching these essential skills in the classroom or lab.

1:00 PM - 1:55 PM CT| Smartforce Main Stage – Community Colleges: Economic Engines for Manufacturing Growth

Moderator:
Dr. Deb Volzer, Director of Governments and Workfroce Partnerships, SME Manufacturing Imperative

Panelists:
Dr. Janine Janosky, President, City Colleges of Chicago
Dr. Lori Suddick, President, College of Lake County
Dr. Vincent Boyd, District Director, Advanced Manufacturing Industry – St. Louis Community College
Jack McKenzie, President, CollegeAPP

This group of panelists represents the intersection of education, industry, and research, working collaboratively to ensure that community colleges serve as effective engines of economic growth and innovation in the manufacturing sector. Their collective expertise enables a holistic approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities in manufacturing education and workforce development. Join us as we explore the critical role that community colleges play in driving economic growth through manufacturing education and workforce development.

Check back for more event announcements coming soon!

10:00 AM - 10:55 AM CT | Smartforce Main Stage – Modern Makers: Career Pathways in Advanced Manufacturing

Moderator:
Cassondra Blasioli

Panelists:
Kim Lemay, BioFabUSA
Olivia Morales, CESMII
Rodrigo Perez, MxD

Join us to hear about exciting high-tech careers and different pathways taken by the Manufacturing USA Modern Makers to shape the future of manufacturing. Their stories are inspirational yet relatable: one who turned a teenage work experience at a construction site into an engineering career; one who discovered engineering in college with a love of problem-solving, and a soccer mom who made a mid-life career change after attending a biomanufacturing certification program. They will share their passion and knowledge about jobs for the future in advanced manufacturing.

12:00 PM - 12:25 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Left Side) – Would There be an IMTS Without the APM?

Presenters:
Steve Dalessio
Dave Eastman
Devon Kuhrau
Molly Holleran
Christopher Gray

In 1851, the Robbins and Lawrence Armory, along with other American manufacturers, took the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London by storm with their demonstrations of the “American System of Manufacturing.” This significant, world-wide event, officially known as the “Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations,” was the first World's Fair. IMTS 2024 is a direct descendant of this great exhibition. The ingenuity and inspiration of Robbins and Lawrence is now housed within the walls and exhibitions at the American Precision Museum in Windsor, Vermont. The American Precision Museum combines the atmosphere of this original 19th century factory building (Robbins and Lawrence Armory) with a world-class collection of historic and modern-day machine tools. The mission of APM is to engage audiences in the stories of human ingenuity through the lens of manufacturing – learning from yesterday, exploring today, and imagining tomorrow. This mission will be carried out “live and interactively” during our Lightning Learning Sessions as the APM Staff and Board Members present images, videos and activities of this uniquely “American" museum while demonstrating its ongoing connections and commitment to today's advanced manufacturing landscape. You are invited to participate in our vision of "all will feel inspired, capable, and welcomed to participate as problem solvers and innovators to help make a positive difference in the world. Come and answer this question for yourself: “Would there be an IMTS without the APM?”

12:00 PM - 12:25 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Right Side) – Meet, Learn, & Discover with Kawasaki Robotics NEW 3D printed, Affordable, Industrial Educational Robot Astorino

Presenter:
Ken Keskeny, Training Instructor – Developer Kawasaki Robotics

Meet, learn & discover with Astorino, Kawasaki Robotics' new affordable 3D printed, 1 kg payload, 6-axis robot. This innovative robot is aimed at enabling educators to equip students with the foundational and real-world application skills needed for the ever-evolving manufacturing environment. Our expert trainer will provide a quick overview of Astorino, what it is and how it works, then demonstrates how it translates into learning programming on a full-size industrial robot that can handle anything from potato chips to cars. If you are curious about robotics and want a glimpse into the rich world of automation, then this is the session for you.

12:30 PM - 12:55 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Left Side) – 3 Things You Can Do to Discover your Purpose and Future in a Manufacturing Career

Presenters:
Hannah Bullard, Head of Client Relations – Tallo
Amy Barnes

Most adults spend more time at work than they do anywhere else. So, it's easy to see why it's important to do work that is satisfying on many levels. There is a place for doers, thinkers and dreamers in manufacturing. Discover steps you can take now to align your personal interests and strengths with potential future careers.

  1. Examine your interests; make a list to guide your evaluation
  2. Identify companies that make products to support things you care about.
  3. Use Tallo and other resources to learn about career pathways and employers.

12:30 PM - 12:55 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Right Side) – A3 & Universal Robots on Safety Risk Assessment in the Classroom

Presenters:
Corey Adams
Ritch Ramey

Educators will gain a deeper understanding of educational robotic safety programming and the available content opportunities designed to enhance their robotic and automation curricula. This knowledge will empower them to better upskill their students, preparing them for safe and effective work in the advanced manufacturing field.

Image: ARM Institute Logo

1:00 PM - 1:25 PM CT | Lightning Learning Lab (Main Stage Left) – Discover Your Career in Manufacturing Working with Robotics and AI

Presenter:
John Zappa, ARM Institute

One of the hottest careers in manufacturing today is working with robotics and artificial intelligence. Learn about these career opportunities, what skills you may already have, and how your can grow your skills and knowledge for these roles by using RoboticsCareer.org and other resources.

1:00 PM - 1:25 PM CT | Lightning Learning Lab (Main Stage Right) – Transformational Teaching with Industry 4.0 Technology in a Purdue University IN-MaC Design and Innovation Studio

Presenter:
Sasha Harrell, MS, Purdue University

Teaching in the Fourth Industrial Revolution brings new challenges and opportunities for teachers and students. Teachers can leverage new teaching strategies supported by Industry 4.0 technology to prepare students to drive future innovations and shape the world of tomorrow. Learn how Purdue University and STEM Education Works are working to implement student-centered learning with strategic technology integration and teaching modules in a dedicated Design and Innovation Studio (DIS). Through this initiative, we collaborate with educators, administrators, and policymakers to create a comprehensive ecosystem that supports optimal learning for today's students and teachers.

Learning Objectives:

  • Design and Innovation Studio (DIS) access
  • Develop a clear vision of why and how to use technology in the DIS classroom
  • A systematic approach to selecting and utilizing the DIS technology
  • Lessons that facilitate deep learning and career awareness
  • Technology adoption

Check back for more event announcements coming soon!

IMTS Elevate: Women Make Manufacturing Move Logo

10:00 AM - 10:55 AM CT | Smartforce Main Stage – Women Make Manufacturing Move Across Generations

Presenter:
Sheronda Carr, Vice PResident, Membership, SME

Panelists:
Suzy Teele, ARM Institute
Lisa Block, Hybrid Manufacturing Technologies
Carmen Mahon, M.ED, Chicago Public Schools

Part of IMTS – Elevate Women Make Manufacturing Move, This panel will explore the opportunities, value, and strategic advantages for young women pursuing careers in manufacturing. Discover how to navigate this dynamic industry and the educational journey to become a future leader.

Image: Ally Rally Logo

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CT | Manufacturing Ally Rally: Empowering Talent: New Approaches to Job Roles in Manufacturing

Presenter:
Meaghan Ziemba, Z-Ink Solutions – Mavens of Manufacturing

Panelists:
Montez King, NIMS
Paul Van Metre, Pro Shop
Ann Wyatt, Ann Wyatt Recruiting
Michael White, Secci

This panel discussion will explore the evolving landscape of job roles and descriptions within the manufacturing sector. Our panelists, composed of industry experts, HR professionals, and workforce development specialists, will discuss the importance of redefining job roles to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry and workforce.

Key Takeaways:

  • Agility and Adaptability: Understand the importance of creating agile job roles and descriptions that can adapt to technological advancements, market dynamics, and changing business needs.
  • Skills-Based Approach: Embrace a skills-based approach to job design that focuses on identifying and leveraging transferable skills rather than rigid qualifications or job titles.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Promote cross-functional collaboration and interdisciplinary skill development within manufacturing organizations to foster innovation and address complex challenges.
  • Talent Development Strategies: Explore effective talent development strategies, including upskilling, reskilling, and continuous learning initiatives, to empower employees to thrive in evolving job roles.
  • Inclusive Workforce Practices: Prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in job design processes to ensure that job roles and descriptions are accessible and appealing to individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences.

By redefining job roles and descriptions to be more flexible, skills-focused, and inclusive, manufacturing organizations can position themselves for success in an increasingly competitive and dynamic marketplace. Join us for this engaging panel discussion as we explore the strategies and best practices for reimagining job roles for the future of manufacturing.

12:00 PM - 12:25 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Left Side) – Would There be an IMTS Without the APM?

Presenters:
Steve Dalessio
Dave Eastman
Devon Kuhrau
Molly Holleran
Christopher Gray

In 1851, the Robbins and Lawrence Armory, along with other American manufacturers, took the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London by storm with their demonstrations of the “American System of Manufacturing.” This significant, world-wide event, officially known as the “Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations,” was the first World's Fair. IMTS 2024 is a direct descendant of this great exhibition. The ingenuity and inspiration of Robbins and Lawrence is now housed within the walls and exhibitions at the American Precision Museum in Windsor, Vermont. The American Precision Museum combines the atmosphere of this original 19th century factory building (Robbins and Lawrence Armory) with a world-class collection of historic and modern-day machine tools. The mission of APM is to engage audiences in the stories of human ingenuity through the lens of manufacturing – learning from yesterday, exploring today, and imagining tomorrow. This mission will be carried out “live and interactively” during our Lightning Learning Sessions as the APM Staff and Board Members present images, videos and activities of this uniquely “American" museum while demonstrating its ongoing connections and commitment to today's advanced manufacturing landscape. You are invited to participate in our vision of "all will feel inspired, capable, and welcomed to participate as problem solvers and innovators to help make a positive difference in the world. Come and answer this question for yourself: “Would there be an IMTS without the APM?”

12:00 PM - 12:25 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Right Side) – Meet, Learn, & Discover with Kawasaki Robotics NEW 3D printed, Affordable, Industrial Educational Robot Astorino

Presenter:
Ken Keskeny, Training Instructor – Developer Kawasaki Robotics

Meet, learn & discover with Astorino, Kawasaki Robotics' new affordable 3D printed, 1 kg payload, 6-axis robot. This innovative robot is aimed at enabling educators to equip students with the foundational and real-world application skills needed for the ever-evolving manufacturing environment. Our expert trainer will provide a quick overview of Astorino, what it is and how it works, then demonstrates how it translates into learning programming on a full-size industrial robot that can handle anything from potato chips to cars. If you are curious about robotics and want a glimpse into the rich world of automation, then this is the session for you.

12:30 PM - 1:25 PM CT| Smartforce Main Stage – Investing in the Next Generation of Skilled Manufacturing Talent through Programs and Scholarships

Moderator:
Christian Jensen, SME Education Foundation

Panelists:
Paul Aiello, FANUC America
Jesse Roitenberg, Stratasys
Rob Luce, SME Education Foundation

1:30 PM - 1:55 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Right Side) – NIMS & Universal Robots on Credentials and Career Pathways in Robotics & Automation

Presenters:
Stephanie Kobayashi
Sarah Mercado

Join NIMS and Universal Robots in a Lightning Learning Lab Session geared for educators interested in learning about career pathways and credentials in robotics and automation. Automation is redefining the manufacturing industry and today's workforce needs a new set of skills to prepare for careers in the industry. In 2024, NIMS launched a new robotics pathway to align industry needs to education learning outcomes. Learn about these credentials and how Universal Robots Education Program can enable teaching these essential skills in the classroom or lab.

1:30 PM - 1:55 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Left Side) – 3D Printing a 3D Printer: A Mirror of Classroom Innovation

Presenters:
Christina Santa Lucia
Andrea Zermeno

In today's educational landscape, 3D printing serves as a powerful tool for students, reflecting the same design thinking processes used in advanced product development. This session will demonstrate how the same design thinking cycle used in classrooms today are used by engineers today to design and develop new 3D printers.

Key Focus Areas:
Connecting Classroom to Industry: Discover how the iterative design process used in 3D printer development parallels classroom 3D printing projects, using design and manufacturing techniques to test and refine designs. See how these experiences prepare students for real-world engineering challenges.

Hands-On Learning: Learn how design thinking principles like problem-solving and prototyping, applied both in education and industry. We'll illustrate how both environments utilize rapid prototyping to test, refine, and perfect designs, providing valuable insights into real-world applications of these skills.

Efficiency in Production: Explore how 3D printing streamlines production, facilitates design modifications, and enhances problem detection, providing students with a deeper understanding of engineering principles and preparing them for industry roles.

Join us to see how the principles of 3D printing in product development mirror those used in educational settings, offering a unique perspective on how classroom experiences prepare students for real-world challenges and innovations.

Check back for more event announcements coming soon!

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CT |Preparing the Manufacturing Workforce for the Cloud

Moderator:
Amanda Beaton, US Program Manager, Siemens Cooperates with Education

Panelists:
Praveen Rao MS, MBA, Managing Director, Manufacturing, Google Cloud
Manish Chary, Director of Product Marketing for Nexus, Hexagon
Sam Murley, General Manager, Industrial AI Strategic Partnerships, Microsoft

Image: Ally Rally Logo

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CT | Manufacturing Ally Rally: Beyond Gender and Ethnicity: Understanding Diversity in Manufacturing

Presenter:
Chris Luecke

Panelists:
Steve Kalina, Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association
Wayne Tompkins, Rockwell Automation
Aneesa Muthana, Pioneer Service, Inc.

12:00 PM - 12:25 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Left Side) – Would There be an IMTS Without the APM?

Presenters:
Steve Dalessio
Dave Eastman
Devon Kuhrau
Molly Holleran
Christopher Gray

In 1851, the Robbins and Lawrence Armory, along with other American manufacturers, took the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London by storm with their demonstrations of the “American System of Manufacturing.” This significant, world-wide event, officially known as the “Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations,” was the first World's Fair. IMTS 2024 is a direct descendant of this great exhibition. The ingenuity and inspiration of Robbins and Lawrence is now housed within the walls and exhibitions at the American Precision Museum in Windsor, Vermont. The American Precision Museum combines the atmosphere of this original 19th century factory building (Robbins and Lawrence Armory) with a world-class collection of historic and modern-day machine tools. The mission of APM is to engage audiences in the stories of human ingenuity through the lens of manufacturing – learning from yesterday, exploring today, and imagining tomorrow. This mission will be carried out “live and interactively” during our Lightning Learning Sessions as the APM Staff and Board Members present images, videos and activities of this uniquely “American" museum while demonstrating its ongoing connections and commitment to today's advanced manufacturing landscape. You are invited to participate in our vision of "all will feel inspired, capable, and welcomed to participate as problem solvers and innovators to help make a positive difference in the world. Come and answer this question for yourself: “Would there be an IMTS without the APM?”

12:00 PM - 12:25 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Right Side) – Meet, Learn, & Discover with Kawasaki Robotics NEW 3D printed, Affordable, Industrial Educational Robot Astorino

Presenter:
Ken Keskeny, Training Instructor – Developer Kawasaki Robotics

Meet, learn & discover with Astorino, Kawasaki Robotics' new affordable 3D printed, 1 kg payload, 6-axis robot. This innovative robot is aimed at enabling educators to equip students with the foundational and real-world application skills needed for the ever-evolving manufacturing environment. Our expert trainer will provide a quick overview of Astorino, what it is and how it works, then demonstrates how it translates into learning programming on a full-size industrial robot that can handle anything from potato chips to cars. If you are curious about robotics and want a glimpse into the rich world of automation, then this is the session for you.

12:30 PM - 12:55 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Left Side) –What's My Next Step?

Presenters:
Hannah Bullard, Head of Client Relations – Tallo
Amy Barnes

There is so much to see and do at the Smartforce Student Summit @ IMTS, but how do you continue to explore possible careers in manufacturing? In this session, we will teach you to use Tallo to continue your career exploration and engage with employers. This free platform provides opportunities to explore career pathways, discover internship opportunities, find scholarships and more.

12:30 PM - 12:55 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Right Side) – A3 & Universal Robots on Safety Risk Assessment in the Classroom

Presenters:
Corey Adams
Ritch Ramey

Educators will gain a deeper understanding of educational robotic safety programming and the available content opportunities designed to enhance their robotic and automation curricula. This knowledge will empower them to better upskill their students, preparing them for safe and effective work in the advanced manufacturing field.

Check back for more event announcements coming soon!

10:00 AM - 10:55 AM CT | MTD CNC

Presenter:
Tony Gunn

11:00 PM - 12:25 PM CT| 3D Printing a 3D Printer: A Mirror of Classroom Innovation

Speakers:
Christina Santa Lucia
Andrea Zermeno

In today&s educational landscape, 3D printing serves as a powerful tool for students, reflecting the same design thinking processes used in advanced product development. This session will demonstrate how the same design thinking cycle used in classrooms today are used by engineers today to design and develop new 3D printers.

12:00 PM - 12:25 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Left Side) – Would There be an IMTS Without the APM?

Presenters:
Steve Dalessio
Dave Eastman
Devon Kuhrau
Molly Holleran
Christopher Gray

In 1851, the Robbins and Lawrence Armory, along with other American manufacturers, took the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London by storm with their demonstrations of the “American System of Manufacturing.” This significant, world-wide event, officially known as the “Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations,” was the first World's Fair. IMTS 2024 is a direct descendant of this great exhibition. The ingenuity and inspiration of Robbins and Lawrence is now housed within the walls and exhibitions at the American Precision Museum in Windsor, Vermont. The American Precision Museum combines the atmosphere of this original 19th century factory building (Robbins and Lawrence Armory) with a world-class collection of historic and modern-day machine tools. The mission of APM is to engage audiences in the stories of human ingenuity through the lens of manufacturing – learning from yesterday, exploring today, and imagining tomorrow. This mission will be carried out “live and interactively” during our Lightning Learning Sessions as the APM Staff and Board Members present images, videos and activities of this uniquely “American" museum while demonstrating its ongoing connections and commitment to today's advanced manufacturing landscape. You are invited to participate in our vision of "all will feel inspired, capable, and welcomed to participate as problem solvers and innovators to help make a positive difference in the world. Come and answer this question for yourself: “Would there be an IMTS without the APM?”

12:00 PM - 12:25 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Right Side) – Meet, Learn, & Discover with Kawasaki Robotics NEW 3D printed, Affordable, Industrial Educational Robot Astorino

Presenter:
Ken Keskeny, Training Instructor – Developer Kawasaki Robotics

Meet, learn & discover with Astorino, Kawasaki Robotics' new affordable 3D printed, 1 kg payload, 6-axis robot. This innovative robot is aimed at enabling educators to equip students with the foundational and real-world application skills needed for the ever-evolving manufacturing environment. Our expert trainer will provide a quick overview of Astorino, what it is and how it works, then demonstrates how it translates into learning programming on a full-size industrial robot that can handle anything from potato chips to cars. If you are curious about robotics and want a glimpse into the rich world of automation, then this is the session for you.

12:30 PM - 12:55 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Left Side) – 3 Things You Can Do to Discover your Purpose and Future in a Manufacturing Career

Presenters:
Hannah Bullard, Head of Client Relations – Tallo
Amy Barnes

Most adults spend more time at work than they do anywhere else. So, it's easy to see why it's important to do work that is satisfying on many levels. There is a place for doers, thinkers and dreamers in manufacturing. Discover steps you can take now to align your personal interests and strengths with potential future careers.

  1. Examine your interests; make a list to guide your evaluation
  2. Identify companies that make products to support things you care about.
  3. Use Tallo and other resources to learn about career pathways and employers.

12:30 PM - 12:55 PM CT| Lightning Learning Lab (Right Side) – NIMS & Universal Robots on Credentials and Career Pathways in Robotics & Automation

Presenters:
Stephanie Kobayashi
Sarah Mercado

Join NIMS and Universal Robots in a Lightning Learning Lab Session geared for educators interested in learning about career pathways and credentials in robotics and automation. Automation is redefining the manufacturing industry and today's workforce needs a new set of skills to prepare for careers in the industry. In 2024, NIMS launched a new robotics pathway to align industry needs to education learning outcomes. Learn about these credentials and how Universal Robots Education Program can enable teaching these essential skills in the classroom or lab.

Check back for more event announcements coming soon!

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM CT | Chicago Public Schools FIRST Lego League

Check back for more event announcements coming soon!