Greenville, SC & Dearborn, MI (PRWEB) August 20, 2013
SOUTH-TEC, SME’s premier manufacturing industry showcase in the Southeast for innovation, knowledge and relationships, returns Oct. 29-31 to Greenville, SC, a hotbed for advanced manufacturing by companies like Michelin, BMW and Lockheed Martin.
Hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of attendees from business, education and government will gather at this major Southeastern center of manufacturing in search of knowledge about advanced techniques, productivity, new technologies and skilled workforce.
"The Southeast is experiencing exceptional growth in areas critical to the economy, such as aerospace and automotive manufacturing," said Cathy Kowalewicz, SOUTH-TEC event manager. "Five Southeastern states – Kentucky, Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia and North Carolina—rank among the top 16 states in new growth of manufacturing jobs. SOUTH-TEC is designed to give manufacturers the technology and knowledge to leverage that growth into new business for their companies."
Bobby Hitt, South Carolina Commerce Secretary and former BMW executive, appreciates SOUTH-TEC for its recognition of South Carolina’s advanced manufacturing techniques and growing reputation for technology advances: “South Carolina is leading the Southeast in manufacturing growth. The state is a model for the world in automotive, aviation, transportation and advanced materials by advancing quality, efficiency and workforce productivity. SME is showcasing current knowledge and the latest technology, demonstrating one more reason that South Carolina is just right for manufacturing.”
The more than 4,000 expected attendees have an opportunity to hear manufacturing thought leaders assess trends affecting the industry. Attendees can also make side-by-side comparisons of manufacturing technologies from suppliers, distributors and equipment builders from across North America and around the world. Another program will also devote special sessions to showcase student research, products and innovations.
In addition to the more than 200 exhibitors who come to showcase their most innovative products to an audience with serious purchase intentions, SOUTH-TEC also offers attendees the opportunity to stay abreast of the latest manufacturing topics. Features such as interactive demonstrations; new product presentations; keynotes; panel discussions; and networking events are just some of the show’s highlights.
“SOUTH-TEC is one of the most important and influential trade events in the advanced manufacturing world,” Greenville Mayor Knox White said. “For SME to have chosen Greenville as the location for its 2013 expo makes a powerful statement about how the Upstate is perceived nationally and globally and how it is appreciated not only as a manufacturing leader but also as a great place to visit and enjoy.”
Manufacturers can choose from dozens of technologies to evaluate to address their production and operational needs. Companies considering exhibiting at SOUTH-TEC at the TD Convention Center can view the exhibitor prospectus here.
About SME
SME connects all those who are passionate about making things that improve our world. As a nonprofit organization, SME has served practitioners, companies, educators, government and communities across the manufacturing spectrum for more than 80 years. Through its strategic areas of events, media, membership, training and development, and the SME Education Foundation, SME shares knowledge to advance manufacturing. At SME, we are making the future. Together. More information is available at SME.