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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.
AME Morning Keynote
WHEN & WHERE
Monday, October 20 | 9:00am-10:00am
Room 46/48 — Level 2 of the DES Convention Center
ABOUT
AME Morning Keynote: Electrochemical Additive Manufacturing: Advancing Scalable, High-Performance Electronics for Next-Generation Applications
Presenter: Michael Matthews, Fabric8Labs, Inc.
Women's Leadership Program
WHEN & WHERE
Monday, October 20 | 1:30pm-6:00pm
Room 45 — Level 2 of the DES Convention Center
ABOUT
Step under the DFX umbrella and get ready to soak up inspiration with the SMTA Women's Leadership Program! As possibilities pour down across the ever-evolving landscape of electronics manufacturing, we’re celebrating the incredible women who lead, innovate, and drive change. From the trailblazers who paved the way to the next generation of technology champions, join us as we dive into the opportunities raining down on our industry—and discover how we can shape the future, together.
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This popular and motivational program concludes with the Annual Connection Reception from 5:00pm-6:00pm.​
Building Benchmarks for the Electronics Talent Pipeline – Hosted by EMAC
WHEN & WHERE
Tuesday, October 21 | 10:00am-12:00pm
Room 50/51 — Level 2 of the DES Convention Center
ABOUT
Be part of the conversation shaping the future of electronics manufacturing talent at SMTA International. This interactive session will focus on defining and standardizing the language around skills and responsibilities for technician and engineering functions critical to our industry. Your input will help establish clear, consistent benchmarks to guide training programs and academic curriculum nationwide. Hosted by EMAC, the session will also showcase progress since last year’s SMTA International town hall—including new academic partnerships, training initiatives, and collaborative program development.
Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute your voice and drive meaningful change for the next generation of electronics professionals.
7th Inning Social
WHEN & WHERE
Tuesday, October 21 | 4:00pm-7:00pm
SMTA Booth #2847
ABOUT
Step up to the plate at our 7th Inning Social! Join us Tuesday evening to kick-off the SMTA Exhibition!
Come to the SMTA booth for drinks, ballpark snacks, and music. It’s a fun, casual way to unwind and connect.
Keynote Presentation
WHEN & WHERE
Wednesday, October 22 | 9:15am-10:00am
Room 13 — Level 1 of the DES Convention Center
ABOUT
THE COMPETITIVE EDGE
In this keynote, Joanna Cooper, General Manager at Daimler Truck North America, shares firsthand insights into cultivating a sustainable and agile culture of innovation. From harnessing AI to stabilizing assembly operations, Joanna demonstrates how digital tools are not only revolutionizing products—but redefining how decisions are made, how teams are engaged, and how operations are run.
Passport Program
WHEN & WHERE
Launch Meeting: Wednesday, October 22 | 10:00am
Concluding Raffle: Thursday, October 23 | 11:00am
SMTA Booth #2847
ABOUT
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!
To register, select the FREE add-on labeled "Passport In-Expo Networking Event" when completing your registration for SMTA International.
Bright Manufacturing Challenge
WHEN & WHERE
Wednesday, October 22
SMTA Booth #2847
ABOUT
The culminating event where student-designed and assembled robots compete in a real-world mission on a custom-built arena floor. This round evaluates the integration of electronics, firmware, mechanical design, and teamwork under pressure. It demonstrates how effectively teams turned their PCB design into a functional, mission-capable robot.
Tuesday, October 21: 4:00pm - 7:00pm Assembly Round
Wednesday, October 22: 8:30am - 12:45pm Team Practice Rounds
Wednesday, October 22: 2:00pm - 5:00pm Final Challenge and Winner Announcement
Interactive Presentation Session
(Posters)
WHEN & WHERE
Wednesday, October 22 | 10:00am - 12:00pm
Expo Hall B
ABOUT
Explore a showcase of innovative projects, products, and research at the SMTAI interactive presentation session. Industry experts and students will present their latest technologies and findings, providing insights into the future of electronics manufacturing. This interactive session offers a great opportunity to network, learn about emerging trends, and engage in discussions with your industry peers.
Next Gen 10 Program
WHEN & WHERE
Wednesday, October 22 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm
SMTA Booth #2847
ABOUT
SMTA will host the Next Gen 10 Program to recognize young leaders who have demonstrated outstanding success in their careers and contributions to the electronics manufacturing industry. This isn't just a program - it's a career accelerator! Know someone who stands out? You can help us choose our next class of 10 emerging leaders to build confidence, connections, and skills.
Survey Says: Officers Meeting and Social
WHEN & WHERE
Wednesday, October 22 | 4:00pm-6:00pm
Room 44 — Level 2 of the DES Convention Center
ABOUT
All current Chapter and Alliance Group officers are invited to join us for an engaging afternoon of networking and connection. Meet with fellow officers and members of the SMTA Board of Directors, get the latest organizational updates, and help us celebrate outstanding volunteer achievements.
We will close the program with a “sip & socialize” hour featuring game-inspired fun from 5:00–6:00 PM.
Oktoberfest
WHEN & WHERE
Wednesday, October 22 | 5:00pm-6:30pm
Convention Center Lobby
ABOUT
Zicke zacke zicke zacke hoi hoi hoi!
Once the exhibit hall closes, join us in the lobby for a fun Oktoberfest Networking Reception hosted by the ASSEMBLY Show and SMTA International. We will have tasty snacks, seasonal brews, and plenty of good conversation with other attendees and exhibitors. It is the perfect way to celebrate a great day and keep building connections before things wind down. Everyone who is registered is welcome to join — lederhosen encouraged but not required!
Next Gen Connect!
WHEN & WHERE
Wednesday, October 22 | 7:00pm-8:30pm
Venue: Joe's Live | 5441 Park Pl, Rosemont, IL 60018
ABOUT
Join us for a beverage to mingle with fellow peers that are shaping the future of the industry. This event is free and open to all individuals 40 years and under.
To register, select the FREE add-on labeled "Students/Young Professionals Next Gen Connect!" when completing your registration for SMTA International.
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