AMUG Conference 2021: Relocated to Orlando, Florida for Enhanced Additive Manufacturing Insights and Safety

The Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG), a cornerstone organization in the global additive manufacturing community, recently announced significant changes to its much-anticipated annual in-person conference. Originally scheduled for March, the AMUG Conference has been relocated and its dates adjusted to prioritize the safety and participation of its diverse attendees. The esteemed event will now take place from May 2nd to May 6th, 2021, at the spacious Hilton Orlando in Florida. This strategic move underscores AMUG’s unwavering commitment to delivering a valuable, in-person experience while adapting to the evolving global landscape and ensuring robust safety protocols.

Since its inception in the 1990s, the Additive Manufacturing Users Group has been the driving force behind this eagerly awaited yearly gathering. What began as a focused forum primarily dedicated to the advancement of stereolithography (SLA) – the pioneering 3D printing technology – has evolved dramatically. Today, AMUG’s core mission is to educate, empower, and support users across the entire spectrum of additive manufacturing technologies. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals at every experience level, from novice engineers to seasoned industry veterans, find immense value and actionable insights within the conference. The unique characteristic that truly sets the AMUG Conference apart is its singular focus on the user. Each year, the conference serves as an unparalleled platform for presenting groundbreaking new technologies, innovative new processes, cutting-edge machines, and a wealth of shared knowledge that propels the industry forward.

Strategic Relocation and Postponement: Ensuring a Safe and Productive Environment

The decision to relocate and postpone the AMUG Conference was made after careful consideration and extensive planning by the AMUG Board. Carl Dekker, the President of AMUG, articulated the rationale behind these crucial adjustments. “Our paramount goal remains to provide an engaging, in-person event, conducted in the safest possible manner,” Dekker stated. “This approach is fundamental to facilitating the unique exchange of information and collaborative spirit that distinguishes the AMUG Conference from all others.” He emphasized the board’s unwavering commitment to hosting a physical event, while also acknowledging the need for flexibility in response to the dynamic global health situation. “The AMUG Board is continuously monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic, along with relevant government restrictions at both federal and local levels,” he added. “We have proactively developed alternate plans, allowing us to adapt swiftly to new developments concerning COVID-19 and the execution of in-person events.”

Dekker further elaborated on the specifics of the change. “Considering both the current circumstances and our projections for early 2021, it became necessary to adjust the conference dates from March to May 2021. Concurrently, moving the event to Orlando was essential to secure a larger meeting space, crucial for accommodating attendees safely under revised protocols.” This thoughtful and proactive approach reflects AMUG’s dedication to attendee well-being and its mission to foster critical industry dialogue even amidst challenging times. The move to Orlando, Florida, provides not only a fresh setting but also enhanced capabilities to implement comprehensive safety measures, ensuring that the integrity of the in-person experience is maintained without compromising health standards.

The Hilton Orlando: A Premier Venue for Additive Manufacturing Innovation

The selection of the Hilton Orlando as the new venue for the 2021 AMUG Conference is a strategic choice, offering unparalleled facilities designed for large-scale events with a focus on safety and comfort. This contemporary property boasts extensive amenities and, crucially, a vast meeting infrastructure. Tom Sorovetz, AMUG Event Manager, expressed enthusiasm about the new location. “The Hilton Orlando provides an impressive 249,000 square feet of dedicated meeting space,” Sorovetz noted. “This expansive area is more than sufficient to accommodate a full-scale AMUG Conference, even with stringent social distancing protocols rigorously enforced. Furthermore, this exceptional property opens up exciting opportunities for AMUG to host various outdoor activities, adding an extra dimension to the conference experience and offering attendees more flexible environments for networking and engagement.” The sheer size of the venue ensures that attendees can navigate the conference space comfortably, participate in sessions, explore exhibition booths, and engage in networking events while maintaining appropriate physical distancing. This capacity allows AMUG to deliver the comprehensive program its attendees expect, from technical presentations and workshops to keynotes and vendor interactions, all within a safe and well-managed environment.

Prioritizing Health and Safety at AMUG Conference 2021

Ensuring the health and safety of every attendee, speaker, exhibitor, and staff member is AMUG’s highest priority for the 2021 conference. To achieve this, AMUG has undertaken extensive preparatory measures, consulting with leading industry experts and collaborating closely with various authorities. The organization has actively sought guidance and advice from a specialized industry consultant renowned for expertise in developing and implementing robust COVID-19 safety protocols for live events. This expert consultation ensures that every aspect of the in-person event adheres to the most current and effective health guidelines, encompassing everything from venue layout and attendee flow to sanitation practices and emergency response plans. In addition to this crucial partnership, AMUG is working hand-in-hand with the Hilton Orlando management, as well as state agencies and local officials in Florida. This multi-faceted collaborative effort ensures that all precautions pertaining to live conferences and events are meticulously observed and frequently reviewed. For those seeking more detailed information on specific safety guidelines, comprehensive resources are available. You can find information regarding protocols for Hilton hotels worldwide, safety measures implemented by the City of Orlando, and statewide health guidelines provided by the State of Florida. These links offer transparency and peace of mind to all participants as they plan their attendance.

Despite the unprecedented challenges of the past year, the additive manufacturing community has demonstrated remarkable resilience and unwavering support for AMUG. Carl Dekker proudly noted that over 70 sponsors and 100 exhibitors have already reaffirmed their commitment to the 2021 AMUG Conference. Their steadfast loyalty is evident in their decision to carry over their 2020 commitments to the upcoming year, a powerful testament to the value and importance they place on the AMUG platform. While planning for the socially distanced conference is still being finalized, the exact number of openings for new companies to participate is yet to be determined. However, AMUG is actively compiling a waitlist for new sponsors and exhibitors eager to join this influential event. This proactive approach ensures that as capacity is confirmed, new partners can be seamlessly integrated. Furthermore, conference registration, which was temporarily paused to facilitate the transition to the new dates and venue, is set to recommence on January 6, 2021. Prospective attendees are encouraged to mark this date to secure their spots at what promises to be an enlightening and crucial gathering for the additive manufacturing industry.

Continuing AMUG’s Legacy: Speakers, Scholarships, and Awards

Even with the significant logistical adjustments for the main conference, AMUG’s supplementary programs and initiatives are proceeding with full momentum, reflecting the organization’s continuous dedication to fostering talent and recognizing excellence within the additive manufacturing sector. The “call-for-speakers” remains open, inviting innovators, researchers, and industry leaders to share their knowledge and insights. The Agenda Committee is diligently working to curate a diverse and compelling program, actively selecting individuals for the available speaking slots that will define the educational core of the conference. This process ensures that attendees will be exposed to the latest advancements, best practices, and visionary ideas shaping the future of 3D printing. Furthermore, AMUG’s invaluable scholarship program continues to accept candidate submissions, offering critical support to emerging talent in the field. These scholarships are vital for nurturing the next generation of additive manufacturing professionals, enabling them to pursue their studies and contribute to the industry’s growth. Alongside these educational endeavors, nominations for AMUG’s highly coveted DINO (Distinguished INnovator Operator) Award are now being accepted. The DINO Award stands as a testament to exceptional contributions and groundbreaking work in additive manufacturing, celebrating individuals who have made a lasting impact on the industry. This award not only recognizes past achievements but also inspires future innovation, reinforcing AMUG’s role as a beacon of progress.

The AMUG Conference 2021 in Orlando promises to be an essential gathering for anyone involved in additive manufacturing. It offers a unique opportunity for unparalleled networking, profound knowledge exchange, and a glimpse into the future of 3D printing technologies, all within an environment meticulously designed for safety and collaboration. This event is more than just a conference; it’s a celebration of innovation, a platform for learning, and a community reunion that reinforces the collective strength and forward momentum of the additive manufacturing world. Attendees will have the chance to connect with peers, discover new solutions, and gain critical insights that can drive their own professional and organizational success.

For comprehensive details on conference registrations, submissions for the DINO Award, scholarship applications, and speaker opportunities, please visit AMUG’s official website HERE. Are you actively involved in 3D printing technologies? Do you plan to attend the AMUG Conference and contribute to the vibrant discussions shaping our industry? We would love to hear your thoughts! Share your perspectives in the comment section below or engage with us on our Facebook and Twitter pages. Don’t miss out on the latest news and developments in the additive manufacturing world; make sure to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter, delivered directly to your inbox!