FMA Annual Meeting: the Next Frontier of Metal Fabrication
By Staff Report | April 30, 2018
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More than 280 metal fabricators, processors, and distributors gathered in Scottsdale, Ariz. to explore the next frontier of technology and innovation at the 2018 FMA Annual Meeting.
Hot topics like steel tariffs, automation, and workforce development were discussed during the conference. A highlight was the Keynote Panel “Successfully Navigating an Unpredictable Steel Market” which gathered: Ladd Hall of Nucor Corporation, Dr. Donald McNeeley of Chicago Tube & Iron, and John Packard of Steel Market Update. Each participant brought their insight on where the industry stands and how it will move forward despite the new hurdles in front of it. In addition, ever-popular FMA economic analyst Dr. Chris Kuehl gave commentary on the state of the industry and business trends moving forward in 2018.
What Did FMA Annual Meeting Attendees Think of #FMAmtg18?
Attendees were able to connect with and learn from peers during breakout sessions and coffee breaks, over meals, at exhibits, and during special networking activities including an exclusive function at Topgolf Scottsdale. They also helped support the future of manufacturing by raising money during the event for the scholarship and manufacturing camp programs of the Nuts, Bolts and Thingamajigs (NBT) Foundation. NBT’s 2018 silent auction raised a record amount – $24,700!
The FMA Annual Meeting is where award winners are recognized each year. The FABRICATOR®’s 2018 Industry Award went to BTD Manufacturing Inc., celebrating their dedication to growth of their employees, business, as well as both their local and industrial communities. The 2017 Steel Man of the Year award went to Brian Robbins of MidWest Materials, Inc. recognizing his lasting contributions to the steel distribution industry during his many years of service.
Don’t miss out on this incredible chance to expand your expertise and strengthen business relationships, mark your calendar for next year in Nashville March 5-7, 2019.
About the Author
Staff Report
The Fabricators and Manufacturers Association is where thousands of manufacturing professionals unite — individuals, businesses, students — under a common purpose: grow the metal processing, forming, and fabricating industries. To do it, we've built a workforce lifecycle that supports individuals and businesses at every point in their development. Ensure they flourish. Get better at what we do, give back to our community. Expand our skills, our businesses, and our careers. Pave the way forward, with fresh ideas and technologies.
Side by side, we move metal fabrication forward.
FMA unites thousands of metal fabrication and manufacturing professionals around a common purpose: to shape the future of our industry, and in turn shape the world.
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