FABTECH Canada helps attendees shape their future

The year began on a note of cautious optimism for manufacturers. Although business deals weren’t moving at the pace they had over the past couple years, there was a sense that the market would thaw as the year progressed. As positive as this sentiment is, there’s still an understanding among manufacturers that investments need to be strategic. FABTECH Canada 2024 gives them an opportunity to see the technology up close that can give them that much-needed boost.

From June 11-13, fabricators, welders, and manufacturing professionals will have the opportunity to visit with a variety of industry suppliers and thought leaders to get market insights and technology updates. Approximately 300 exhibitors will be under one roof close to home—the Toronto Congress Centre. Attendees will have a multitude of education sessions to choose from to get the key insights they need to push their productivity further.

“Remaining competitive today demands speed and intelligence, in the front office and on the shop floor,” said Mark Hoper, senior vice-president, media and expositions at Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA), a FABTECH Canada event partner. “The drive to automate and to improve efficiencies in shops is more critical than ever. Canadians have the chance to test drive that technology at the show this year. The pace of change is such that several exhibitors will be showcasing brand new technologies at the show—both Canadian and North American debuts. We and our show partners are excited to be able to provide a venue for this important information exchange.”

FABTECH Canada provides a one-stop shop for attendees to connect with suppliers from around the globe, see the latest industry products and developments, find the tools necessary to improve productivity, network with other industry professionals, and listen to industry experts discuss and debate the latest trends.

FABTECH Canada’s event partners are FMA, SME, Precision Metalforming Association (PMA), Chemical Coaters Association International (CCAI), and the American Welding Society (AWS).

The event organizers are pleased to have CWB Group return as a strategic partner to offer its expertise to attendees as well. CWB does a great deal of work for the welding community through its certification programs and the many learning resources it provides. Specific welding education sessions will be available covering innovative technologies and processes at CanWeld Conference 2024, held in conjunction with FABTECH Canada. For more details on CWB’s involvement, see this month’s CWB Update column.

How to Register

Visit canada.fabtechexpo.com/attend to register. If you register before June 7, you will receive complimentary admission. The registration fee is $50 if you register on-site or after the deadline.

Helpful Tools

Download the official FABTECH Canada 2024 mobile app ahead of the show to:

• Build a personalized schedule and bookmark exhibitors.
• Stay organized with exhibitor, speaker, and event information.
• Get real-time alerts that remind you of what’s happening at the show.
• Gain access to the event’s social media channels.

The app is free to download and can be found in the App Store for Apple devices and Google Play for Android devices.

Lodging

In partnership with onPeak, the official hotel provider for FABTECH Canada 2024, the show has secured discounted rates at a selection of Toronto hotels. Plans change, so to help ease your travel planning, onPeak offers hotel options with flexible change and cancellation policies. Book through them early for the best selection and price.

Special Events

The show will include a number of engaging keynote speakers and leadership exchange panels in addition to workshops and breakout sessions. Workshops include sessions on getting started with smart technologies, practical techniques for 3D vision and cobot welding, additive manufacturing design and fabrication, and getting ready for Industry 4.0. Following is a taste of what you can expect from the leadership panels and keynotes. Visit the website for additions to this schedule as the show dates near.

Tuesday, June 11

9-10 a.m.

Keynote: Resilient Innovation: Shaping the Future of B2G Manufacturing

In an era where the defence manufacturing sector is constantly challenged by complex supply chain issues and the pressing need for innovation, Roshel Inc. stands out by not only specializing in the production of defence products for governmental organizations but also in mastering a vertically integrated manufacturing process that champions resilience and quality. Keynote speaker Roman Shimonov, CEO of Roshel, will share a strategic approach to overcoming global supply chain disruptions, leveraging their comprehensive control over every aspect of the manufacturing cycle. Moreover, his presentation will highlight the transformative power of embracing a diverse workforce.

2-3 p.m.

Panel Discussion: The Future State of Advanced Manufacturing in Canada

When it comes to the economics of manufacturing, business practices in Canada and the U.S. are not one and the same. Canada is a global leader in advanced manufacturing, which is a key driver of economic growth and competitiveness, as well as a source of employment and innovation. According to NGen, the industry-led organization leading Canada’s Global Innovation Cluster for Advanced Manufacturing, fabrication in Canada is undergoing a digital transformation that will enrich the lives of Canadians, deliver better products and good jobs, and generate economic growth. The panel of experts will share the future opportunities for the industry.

Panellists are Max Ceron, director, CWB Association, CWB Group; Diane Reko, CEO and chair of the board of directors, Reko Intl. Group Inc.; and François Desmarais, director for trade and industry affairs, Canadian Steel Producers Association. Stephanie Holko, director, project development, NGen Canada, will moderate the session.

Wednesday, June 12

9-10 a.m.

Keynote: A Conversation with Eric Lindros

Lindros, former NHL, Olympic, and Canadian National Hockey Team member, is one of the most legendary players in hockey history. He was born in London, Ont., but grew up in Toronto, where he showed his amazing talent and passion for the game. He had a brilliant career that was cut short by injuries and concussions, but he still managed to score 865 points in 760 games. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2016 and named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players in 2017. Lindros is a true hockey legend and a Canadian icon. Join us for a conversation and meet-and-greet with this National Hockey League great.

12-1:30 p.m.

Women of FABTECH: From Curiosity to Career: How I Found My Place in Manufacturing

Panellists in this session come from diverse leadership backgrounds and roles in manufacturing. They will share their stories of how they discovered their passion for manufacturing, overcame obstacles, achieved success, and learned valuable lessons along the way. This session is interactive and will give you the opportunity to ask questions and learn from their experience.

Panellists include Lauren Tedesco, senior vice-president, APMA; Vasudha Seth, vice-president, strategy, ArcelorMittal Dofasco; and Genevieve Ellis, welding general foreperson, Aecon Group Inc., Boilermakers. Julie Pike, senior director, event strategy, SME, will moderate the panel.

2-3 p.m.

Fabrication Manufacturing in Canada: The Benefits and Challenges of Adopting Automation & Robotics

The benefits and challenges of adopting automation and robotics create some challenges for manufacturers. To overcome these challenges and remain competitive in the global market, fabrication manufacturing in Canada needs to adopt automation and robotics technologies that can improve productivity and quality while reducing costs and waste. Automation and robotics are not threats to fabrication manufacturing in Canada, but are instead opportunities to enhance its competitiveness and resilience. By embracing automation and robotics technologies, fabrication manufacturing in Canada can create more value for its customers, workers, society, and environment. The panel will share best practices and case studies from some leading experts in the industry.

The panellists are Massimiliano (Max) Moruzzi, CEO, Xaba; Nick McDonald, business line manager, welding & cutting, ABB Robotics Inc.; and Brian Sullivan, cobot sales project specialist, Lincoln Electric. Christy Michalak, director of manufacturing development programs, NGen Canada, will moderate the session.

Thursday, June 13

9 -10 a.m.

Keynote: “It’s a Small World”- Building Relationships and Exceptional Project Experiences

Sam Barrett, vice-president, preconstruction and sales, Walters Group, will explore the interconnected world of design and construction – it’s smaller than you might think. With a rich history spanning over 65 years in designing, fabricating, and constructing steel for commercial and industrial projects across North America, the commitment by Walters Group to being a true partner echoes through every bolt and beam. In this keynote, the intricate web of connections within the construction industry will be explored, weaving together the industry’s journey of innovation and collaboration.

12-1:30 p.m.

How Associations and Employers Can Empower Women to Create New Workplace Cultures

This panel discussion will address the current state of workplace cultures and the unique challenges women face while highlighting the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in fostering innovative and resilient work environments. Let’s explore strategies for how employers can implement a supportive atmosphere for women and practical solutions for how professional associations can help support leadership trading and mentorship programs.

Panellists include moderator Daniela Todaro, general manager, Bothwell Steel; Jen Coulson, trader, Triple M Metal; Marissa McMurray, regional communications manager, Hatch; and Rebecca Sanguigni, manager of strategy and corporate development, Metalogics.

Show Details

When

Tuesday, June 11

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Wednesday, June 12

10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Thursday, June 13

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Where

The Toronto Congress Centre

South Building

650 Dixon Rd.

Toronto

Editor Robert Colman can be reached at rcolman@fmamfg.org.