Manufacturing Technology in Motion: CMTS

CMTS (which alternates with IMTS in Chicago every other year) focuses on the most recent equipment and technologies in automation, robotics, additive manufacturing, machine tools, metal forming, fabricating, and digital transformation. Attendees come from a variety of industries, including automotive, aerospace, energy, government, commercial and industrial, and oil and gas.

VISIT BY THE PM

Even Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the trip this year. Trudeau strolled the show floor and chatted with members of the manufacturing industry. He also spoke with Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, which hosted its Annual Conference alongside CMTS.

“The future of Canadian manufacturing is incredibly exciting,” said Julie Pike, senior director, of event strategy, SME, who was on the tour with Trudeau. “We’re seeing particular vibrancy in areas such as aerospace, automotive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, robotics, additive manufacturing (3D printing) and sustainable practises, and the latest breakthroughs in each of these areas are on full display on the show floor.”

THE REVOLUTION IN TRANSPORTATION

Flavio Volpe gave a keynote address on How Canada Can Drive the Next Transportation Revolution. He discussed Project Arrow, which was on display on the CMTS trade show floor. The Arrow is an all-electric car concept vehicle made up of materials and components from 60 Canadian businesses.

“Project Arrow is the manifestation of Canada’s answer to the challenges facing the automotive industry,” Volpe said in a statement. “It’s time to start thinking about where Project Arrow will take us next.” To prepare for the future, Canadian automotive suppliers must first understand what that future will look like.

TRADE SHOW IN FULL SWING

Over 500 suppliers and OEMs displayed over 200 new items at the largest CMTS since the commencement of the COVID-19 pandemic. As shown in the movies below, robotic devices were everywhere. The show floor was packed all four days as guests and exhibitors networked.

A Canadian Tooling and Machining Association tooling pavilion, a CWB-EWI welding display, and an emerging innovators showcase were present on the show floor. The Smart Hub was where attendees could unwind, network with colleagues, and have a drink.