IMTS was a worthy experience

If you’re not aware, IMTS is a spectacle full of machining and related technologies that will excite anyone in this business—and if it doesn’t, perhaps another career is in order. In addition to seeing the newest machining centers, we witnessed an entire world of new cutting tools, fixtures, software, inspection equipment—the list goes on.

A variety of demos, as well as personal discussions with technical experts, were helpful, but, unfortunately, the 2 days we allotted was barely enough time. Another full day would’ve let us explore more of the smaller companies and their many innovative products and services.

While these two machinists have attended smaller machine tool events, many of them local, neither had been to Chicago or to a trade show of IMTS’ magnitude. They were in a heavenly playground of metalworking technology that really opened their eyes to new possibilities. They work hard and produce a lot of parts for our company, and we knew the show would be a big deal for them.

Like any small business, we’re careful with expenses and wanted to ensure this was worthwhile. Directing funds for a trade show isn’t easy or even possible for many shops, especially when considering the absence of key employees. However, when I evaluated the big picture, an investment of 3 days and $3,000 wasn’t out of line with the benefits we expected in return.

We conducted business right on the show floor. First, we purchased a right-angle head for a CNC mill to machine longer parts for several customers. We also made a deal on a 4th-axis accessory for jobs that are difficult or impossible to handle otherwise.

In addition to evaluating technology and devices for existing equipment, we examined four different CNC lathes to expand our turning capacity. The companies were all anxious to sell us products and willing to be aggressive on price. In that environment, making machine tool suppliers compete for business is beneficial because they’re fully aware prospects like us are shopping around.

Now, traveling to a show isn’t a requirement to evaluate items you’re considering, but IMTS offers a single venue to research, evaluate, discuss and take advantage of discounts offered by willing vendors. This can result in savings not otherwise available.

As the decision maker on this matter, my goal was simple: Get two good employees out of the shop and away from the daily grind. That way, they could see amazing stuff our shop can utilize, help the shop take advantage of the numerous deals available and learn about new machinery and processes. It worked. They learned and we’re finalizing some purchases and looking forward to implementing new tools and techniques that we expect to provide a return on investment far beyond the trip’s cost.

Others employees at our shop also benefited, because those who stayed behind enjoyed an opportunity to show they can professionally fill in and handle tasks during their co-workers’ absence. While we won’t always send employees to major trade shows, I anticipate future trips. It was great to see the enthusiasm of our team at this show. Perhaps you can meet up with us at IMTS 2016. CTE