Canadian shows offer opportunities for innovation

In the March 2024 CWB Update, CWB Group’s research team discusses the challenging first half of the year predicted for manufacturers, but they also point to industry expectations of market improvements in the latter half of 2024. The imperative of challenging times is to determine how to ramp up efficiently to prepare for future positive shifts.

Trade shows are a great place to begin such preparations, and Canadians have multiple opportunities to meet suppliers and fellow manufacturers in a congenial setting in 2024.

First, the Metalworking & Manufacturing Expo (MME), brought to you by Canadian Fabricating & Welding and Canadian Metalworking, will take place this year in Langley, B.C., on April 10; Winnipeg on April 30; and Saskatoon on May 28. This is the expo’s second visit to Saskatchewan, and I’m looking forward to this return. Speaking of returns, representatives of Seaspan Vancouver Shipyards are our keynotes at Langley again this year and will share updates of their operations. Visit the show website for more details. As of press date, we were close to firming up our speakers for Winnipeg and Saskatoon, so watch for updates online and in the next issue of the magazine.

In addition to these regional tabletop shows, FABTECH Canada returns to Toronto Congress Centre June 11-13. With 80,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space, there will be many machines to see and educational sessions to enjoy. For those looking for welding education opportunities, CWB Group will hold its CanWeld Conference 2024 conference in conjunction with FABTECH Canada on June 12-13.

I’ve have spoken to a number of people over the past couple months about community and the importance of networks to encourage growth and resilience. These types of events, where ideas are shared and encouraged, offer that sort of opportunity. As innovative as one company aspires to be, growth comes with the help of many business partners and suppliers. I look forward to seeing you there.

Colleges are another important part of that knowledge-sharing ecosystem. In this issue, we learn how a handful of institutions are working to help Canadian industry thrive. Are you connected with your local college? If not, hopefully this article will offer you some ideas of how best to engage with them to your mutual benefit.