Live at FABTECH 2025: An Inside Look at Manufacturing Trends
This month is your chance to experience the latest and important solutions regarding automation, robotics, smart manufacturing, workforce development, advances in cutting solutions, sustainability initiatives and so much more. The fabrication industry will gather September 8-11 in Chicago to learn more about where the industry is headed.
FABTECH is the industry’s annual opportunity to gain direct access to equipment, the experts, and learn the anecdotes and tips from people leading the industry’s transformation. There are four key themes and trends to watch for at this year’s event.
- Automation and Smart Manufacturing-As companies deal with labor shortages and an uncertain economy they are exploring and investing in AI-powered systems, cobots, robots and automation. Check out the Automation and Welding pavilions to learn more. Live demonstrations will include the debut of products such as the METALLECO Integrated Welding Cell, and the EASYARC™ Ferris Wheel Laser Welding System.
- The Connected Smart Shop-Digital technologies create more efficient operations because the integration of AI and machine learning enables greater speed and precision. Check out the Forming and Fabricating and Job Shop pavilions to learn more. Exhibitors will display OEE and machine monitoring systems like the Scytec DataXchange.
- High-precision Technology-Innovations in advanced welding and laser systems are critical for raising productivity and building high-precision products required by industries such as aerospace and medical. Check out the Welding and Forming and Fabricating pavilions to learn more. AMADA AMERICA will showcase new equipment including cobot systems, and the FLW ENSISe, a fiber laser welding solution that features a unique processing head and offline programming.
- Sustainability-Manufacturers continue to find ways to minimize their carbon footprints, exploring waste reduction methods and renewable energy sources. Check out the Finishing and Welding pavilions to learn more. Exhibitors will be showcasing solutions such as industrial washers, and gas and electric processing ovens.
Exactly the Right Moment
FABTECH brings cutting-edge solutions for every stage of the production process together in one place. The timing couldn’t be better to explore machinery, software and services, as well as learn strategies to navigate a fluid manufacturing economic climate.
On August 11, the U.S. Manufacturing Technology Orders Report from AMT stated new orders of manufacturing technology equaled $429.2 million in June 2025. This was a 9.1% increase from May 2025 and a 7.7% increase from June 2024. AMT said this “trend underscores the increasing importance that automated machinery has played in the market for manufacturing technology in recent months, with added options and features increasing order values. Such automated solutions allow companies to gain additional productivity at current workforce levels, bridging the gap caused by the shallow, upward trend of industrial output and the continued decline in employment.”
FABTECH is the industry’s prime opportunity to build stronger connections with suppliers and industry thought leaders.
It’s time for the next chapter in manufacturing — are you ready?
About the Author: Rachel Duran
