SPECIAL EVENTS
Forge influential relationships with top professionals and solution providers across various industries. Throughout SMTA International, you'll have access to networking functions, one on each day of the event, as well as numerous other opportunities to engage with thousands of participants.
Monday Luncheon
Keynote Presentation
Monday, October 21 | 12:00pm-1:30pm (Presentation Begins at 12:30pm)
Room: 47/49 | Level 2 of the DES Convention Center
OPEN TO ALL REGISTERED CONFERENCE ATTENDEES
Additively Manufactured Electronics:
A View from The Ecosystem
Speaker: Arthur Wall, Ph.D., NextFlex
Additive technology is changing our world. Simple 3D printed structures have evolved to become critical components in the manufacture of devices that we could not have imagined just a few years ago. Now comes the emergence of, the implementation of, and the continued evolution of, additive electronics. There are so many exciting examples of materials, tools, processes, and systems that are now emerging in the ecosystem indicating that this new technology cannot be ignored. More importantly, it is being adopted into manufacturing today. In this discussion, we will explore several well-known manufacturing approaches that push the boundaries of today’s capability and new entrants with innovative methods and materials. We will also describe the importance of additive electronics manufacturing for its impact ono environmental sustainability. Finally, future developments of systems and applications will be presented as part of an overall electronics national strategy.
Women's Leadership Program
Monday, October 21 | 1:30pm-6:00pm
Room: 45 | Level 2 of the DES Convention Center
Promote Diversity & Inclusion in Engineering & Manufacturing Fields
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES
For the past 14 years at SMTA International, the committee holds a half day program for all to join and enjoy conversations with their fellow attendees. These programs include technical presentations and round table discussions moderated by industry leaders.
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This popular and motivational program concludes with the Annual Connection Reception from 5:00pm-6:00pm.
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EMAC Workforce Development Efforts
Tuesday, October 22 | 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Room: 50/51 | Level 2 of the DES Convention Center
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES
Introducing the Electronics Manufacturing and Assembly Collaborative for Workforce Development (EMAC). The objective of this initiative is to provide a collaborative resource to connect and engage academia, manufacturers, workers, and job seekers with education programs to develop skills for careers in electronics manufacturing. This session will introduce EMAC's goals, share workforce development success stories, and allow time for input and meaningful discussion. Join us in shaping the future of workforce development and advancing the electronics manufacturing sector.
Passport Program
Kick-Off: Tuesday, October 22 | 5:00pm
Concluding Raffle: Thursday, October 24 | 11:00am
SMTA Booth #2853
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES
Meet Manufacturing Technology Experts on the Expo Floor
Calling all young professionals and those new to the industry! Join us at SMTA International during our interactive in-expo networking event, Passport to the World of SMT!
SMTA International
Keynote Presentation
Wednesday, October 23 | 9:00am - 10:00am
Room: 1 | Level 1 of the DES Convention Center
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES
Crafting the Future: Leadership and Legacy in the Manufacturing Industry
Speaker: Jairek Robbins, Author, Speaker, Coach
This is more than just a keynote—it’s a call to action to shape your career and the future of manufacturing. Don’t miss it!
This session will empower you with the tools and mindset needed to drive your career toward excellence. Jairek will delve into the critical role of leadership in transforming workplaces, the benefits of performance coaching, and how to activate the very best in yourself and those around you. This keynote will provide you with the insights needed to navigate the evolving landscape of manufacturing with confidence and optimism.
Ultra HDI
Learning Pavilion
Wednesday, October 23 - Thursday, October 24
UHDI Pavillion Booth #2753
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES
Join us at the first-of-its-kind Ultra HDI Pavilion, where industry leaders will converge to explore the cutting-edge advancements in Ultra-High Density Interconnect (UHDI) technology. Explore a comprehensive schedule packed with technical sessions covering everything from The SMTA Ultra-HDI Test Board design to fabrication materials, assembly processes, and strategies to address continued miniaturization. A highlight you can't miss is the "Lab to Fab" working session, designed to break down silos and foster collaboration across the supply chain, accelerating the transition from concept to production. Whether you're looking to stay ahead of the curve or shape the future of miniaturization, the Ultra HDI Pavilion is where you need to be.
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View the technical program for presentation listings.
40 Under 40
Awards Ceremony
Wednesday, October 23 | 10:30am
SMTA Booth #2853
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES
In celebration of SMTA's 40th Anniversary, we are hosting the 40 Under 40 Program to recognize young leaders who have demonstrated outstanding success in their careers and contributions to the electronics manufacturing industry.
Ice Cream Social
Wednesday, October 23 | 3:00pm - 4:00pm
SMTA Booth #2853
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES
Join us for networking with a sweet twist at this Ice Cream Social, hosted by the SMTA Great Lakes and Wisconsin Chapters!
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Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, this event is a great opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, forge new connections, and discover how the SMTA can support your professional journey.
SYP Happy Hour
Wednesday, October 23 | 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Murray Brothers Caddyshack | 9546 Balmoral Ave., Rosemont, IL 60018
FREE AND OPEN TO INDIVIDUALS 40 AND UNDER
Join us for a beverage to mingle with fellow peers that are new to the industry. Murray Brothers Caddyshack is located on the lobby level in Crowne Plaza Chicago O'Hare Hotel and Conference Center
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Back to 1984: Celebrating 40 Years
Wednesday, October 23 | 6:30pm - 9:00pm
Kings Rosemont | 5505 Park Place, Rosemont, IL 60018
Step into a time warp and buckle up for a journey back to the raddest era of them all! The Association's 40-year anniversary party at SMTA International is not just a celebration; it's a gnarly 80s extravaganza that'll leave non-attendees stuck in the wrong decade.
Good vibes required - costumes encouraged!
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Tickets are $40.00 and can be purchased when registering for SMTA International Conference & Expo. Be sure to select the add-on ticket, "Back to 1984: SMTA 40th Anniversary Party".
