AMUG Conference Lineup

It’s only a few weeks until I jump on a plane to head to Tucson, Arizona, for the Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) Conference. After reviewing the event’s agenda , all I can say is “Wow.”

This volunteer organization has put together an amazing schedule of events. There are over one hundred presentations, three keynotes, and seven hands-on workshops or training classes. I really wish I had a clone to be in more than one place at a time so that I don’t miss a thing.

Although that’s not possible, there are a few things that I definitely won’t miss out on. I’m going to get my hands dirty in the silicone rubber molding workshop to learn how that is done. Then I am going to sit back for a couple of hours to hear how to make 3D-printed metal parts; from file prep to final part finishing. Intellectual property (IP) is a hot topic now, so I’m going to be all ears during the presentation on the impact of 3D printing on IP. Later in the week, I plan to sit in on the presentation that describes how to justify the purchase of a 3D printer, which I hear is a bit tricky when your heart is set on a high-end, industrial system.

Prior to all the presentations, I am going to get up close and personal with the printers, software, materials and services at the two-night AMUGexpo. And I am going to conclude my trip with the off-site jaunt to Solid Concepts to see their operations and learn how everything works in the real world.

Before getting on that plane, I am going to rest up. I hear that AMUG keeps you going from morning to evening. The days start with a big breakfast and end with dinner and entertainment. My only question is how will I make the time to write about what I am seeing?

See for yourself what the AMUG Conference has on tap by checking out the agenda . Covering plastics to metals, aerospace to automotive and maintenance to operations, I’m sure you will find plenty to keep you busy.