The US DoD is working to develop common technology, standards and processes for additive manufacturing that will enable the military services to share data and increase readiness while saving money. Doing so requires face-to-face discussion and knowledge sharing with all stakeholders, hence the role of the Military Additive Manufacturing Summit & Technology event (MILAM).
The 8th edition of this event will continue to be North America’s premiere military, aerospace and defense 3D printing event featuring senior-level DoD acquisition priorities, international 3D printing initiatives, and innovative technological presentations on cutting-edge solutions being developed across the advanced manufacturing and 3D printing industry.
To help the industry prepare for the 2024 edition, we asked Nick Liberato-Randall, Director of Marketing, MILAM, to share the highlights of their 2023 event and what will make their event worthy to be attended in 2024.
3DA: How would you summarize the highlights of the 2023 edition of your event?
MILAM 2023 brought together an incredibly diverse group of additive manufacturing innovators looking to make their mark in the defense and aerospace sectors. Three individuals and organizations received awards for their outstanding achievements in 3D printing, and the event delegation heard from more than 40 unique and insightful speakers from across the defense community, academia, and industry leaders.
3DA: Can you tease one exciting new feature or aspect that attendees can look forward to in the 2024 edition?
MILAM 2024 features an international panel discussion convening delegations from across the globe to discuss “Driving the Global Adoption & Integration of 3D Printing Technologies.” Additionally, in partnership with America Makes, we will be recognizing a group or individual with our inaugural “Education and Workforce Development Award.” Finally, we will be hosting more than a dozen 3D printing and defense community leaders for in-depth interviews.
3DA: What advice would you give to future participants (visitors and/or exhibitors)?
[To visitors:] Meet as many people as possible! With 80 exhibitors representing just about every aspect of 3D printing from design through the finishing process and logistics, you’ll be sure to make great connections and learn about new opportunities to get involved with emerging sectors just beginning to adopt AM.
[To exhibitors:] Bring your technology! Attendees, especially military/government end-users, love to get hands-on experience. Because we make sure to schedule dedicated exhibit hall time, there are opportunities for exhibitors to leave the booth and listen in on speaking presentations and panel discussions.
MILAM will be held next week, on January 16 and 17 in Florida.