FABTECH 2025 Opens with Largest Exhibit Floor in Event History

FABTECH 2025, North America’s premier event for metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing, is set to open with its largest exhibit floor to date. The event will take place from September 8–11 at McCormick Place in Chicago, spanning over 850,000 net square feet.

The conference will feature more than 1,700 suppliers and is expected to attract 45,000 professionals. Attendees will explore the latest technologies aimed at improving productivity, strengthening supply chains, and addressing workforce challenges.

“This isn’t just the largest FABTECH; it’s the most essential,” said Tracy Garcia, CEM, FABTECH Group Director at SME. “The record-breaking size of our show floor reflects the industry's incredible drive for innovation.”

The show floor is organized into seven technology-focused pavilions: Automation, Welding, Finishing, Forming & Fabricating, Stamping and Press Automation, Tube & Pipe, and the new Job Shop Pavilion. These areas will provide access to live equipment demonstrations and tailored solutions.

Key highlights of the 2025 event include:

• Women of FABTECH’s 10th Anniversary: This program will celebrate a decade of advancing women in manufacturing, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Amber Selking.

• High-Impact Keynotes: A lineup of speakers, including Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith and performance coach Alan Stein Jr., will present on the main stage.

• Emerging Leaders Program: This returning program offers specialized content and networking opportunities for early-career professionals.

• Comprehensive Education Program: Over 200 sessions across 13 tracks will delve into topics such as automation integration, workforce development, and operational excellence.

• Networking Opportunities: Events like the FABTECH Industry Night Party will offer attendees chances to connect with peers and partners.