Back to business: CMTS returns in hybrid format

Canada’s biggest manufacturing show is back this fall, looking a little different than when it was last held in September 2019. 

The biennial Canadian Manufacturing Technology Show (CMTS) was in its off-year during the height of COVID-19–related restrictions in 2020. But now, it will be one of the first Canadian manufacturing industry trade shows to return to an in-person format when it’s staged by the SME association Oct. 4-7, 2021 at The International Centre in Toronto.

For the first time, the 40-year-old show is offering a hybrid event experience with the CMTS LIVE! Virtual Experience. Participants who choose to attend remotely will have access to interactive 3D booths, live-streamed keynotes and pre-recorded content for 60 days after the event.

Whether in-person or digital, CMTS 2021 offers the opportunity to network with manufacturers and suppliers across all verticals.

What’s on the agenda

More than 150 exhibitors will demonstrate their latest technologies on the CMTS show floor, covering fabricating and tooling, as well as automation, robotics, 3D printing, design engineering and Industry 4.0/IIoT solutions.

Several keynote presentations from industry leaders will anchor the event. Courtney Rickert McCaffrey, insights leader for EY Geostrategic Business Group at Ernst & Young, kicks off the week with an opening keynote on how manufacturers can manage geopolitical risks. Jayson Myers, CEO of Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen), Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association, and Mélanie Joly, minister of economic development and official languages, are all slated to deliver keynotes. A concurrent conference program covers technical content and sessions geared toward SMEs looking to explore new technologies.

Additional sessions on the workforce, the skills gap and innovation will be held on the show floor at the SME ZONE, and advanced manufacturing applications are the focus of sessions at the Smart Theatre.

Increased safety precautions

The CMTS crew and venue staff say they are committed to a safe event. Among the safety protocols are improved air filtration systems at the venue and increased air exchange during event hours. Venue staff will continuously clean high-touch areas including restrooms, door handles and the cafes. The International Centre will also offer hand sanitizer stations, and employ Global Biorisk Advisory Council–certified cleaning practices. 

At the time of this writing, face masks will be required for all event participants, and social distancing will be suggested where possible. | MA 

Subject to change based on public health guidelines. Visit cmts.ca for the most current information about this event.