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First-Time Visit to Westec is a Rite of Passage

Westec, featuring the latest in advanced manufacturing technology, including precision machining, additive manufacturing and 3D printing, software and digital technologies, advanced materials, tooling and more, was held at the Los Angeles Center Sept. 12-14.

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Being an assistant editor for Production Machining means that on occasion I’ll travel across the country to see what’s new, and this time it was Westec. A manufacturing forum featuring the latest in advanced manufacturing technology, including precision machining, additive manufacturing and 3D printing, software and digital technologies, advanced materials, tooling and more, Westec was held at the Los Angeles Center Sept. 12-14.

Racing around the show floor, meeting representatives from each company and seeing the many salesman out in the wild is quite a sight. Additive manufacturing and 3D printing had a prominent place at the show; a Smart Manufacturing Hub showcased the latest in automation, advanced materials, additive manufacturing and the Industrial Internet of Things; and there was a emphasis on California as a productive manufacturing region. There were also several speakers, with Titan Gilroy, star of the television series Titans of CNC, as a standout that drew quite a crowd.

Although it was a bit intimidating, attending Westec proved to be a rite of passage. Dozens of hands were shaken, countless cards were passed out, but making valuable connections and learning more about the industry is what it’s all about.