New TED-Style Opening Keynote Format Set for FABTECH 2017
September 22, 2017
FABTECH 2017 is adding a new twist to its opening keynote presentation by embracing the popular TED Talks concept.
Featuring short, inspirational talks given by industry visionaries relaying messages about transformation, growth and the future of manufacturing, the “FABx Tech Talks” will kick off the keynotes on the first day of the annual trade show and conference for the metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing industries.
Set for Nov. 6-9 at McCormick Place in Chicago, the event is expected to attract more than 50,000 attendees and 1,700 exhibiting companies spanning more than 750,000 square feet of exhibit space.
Designed to motivate and inspire attendees, the FABx Tech Talks will provide a glimpse into manufacturing’s future, including how innovation is transforming manufacturing, what tomorrow’s jobs will look like and what companies must do to remain competitive.
“We are very excited to have these top innovators provide their expert insight via this new and engaging forum for the opening keynote,” said John Catalano, FABTECH show co-manager and SME senior director.
He continued, “The FABx talks add a motivational element to our already impressive presentation lineup, and introduce emerging topics and trends that are central themes throughout FABTECH, from the show floor to the education program.”
FABx Tech Talks participants include:
· Adam Genei, founder of Mobsteel
· Jesse James, founder of West Coast Choppers
· Karen Kerr, executive managing director at GE Ventures
· Albert Paley, world-renowned sculpture artist at Paley Studios
· Jacques Panis, president of Shinola
· Michael Walton, industry solution executive (manufacturing industry) at Microsoft
All FABx speakers will provide a short, 12-minute talk.
Jesse James and Albert Paley will take the stage first to discuss their unique collaboration using metal art to bring to life the importance of metalworking technology, after which Michael Walton, Karen Kerr and Jacques Panis will share their own personal stories on the evolution taking place in manufacturing and what the future holds.
Lastly, Adam Genei, whose formula for success is a simple equation of hard work, will conclude the talks by sharing his passion for manufacturing and the value of making things with one’s hands.
So why implement this ubiquitous lecture format at FABTECH, and why now?
“Innovation is the driving force behind the advanced technologies ushering in a new age of manufacturing,” Catalano said.
He continued, “Since FABTECH is celebrating the Industrial Evolution as our theme for 2017, we decided to introduce this new motivational series of talks to inspire attendees to think innovatively so that they can be active participants in the industry’s continued transformation.”
FABTECH is sponsored by the American Welding Society, the Chemical Coaters Association International, the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, the Precision Metalforming Association and SME.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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