I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be attending the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) this year in Chicago!
From September 9-14, 2024, McCormick Place will be the epicenter of innovation, and I’m looking forward to diving into the latest advancements in the manufacturing technology space. IMTS is where the magic happens—where ideas come to life, technologies evolve, and the future of manufacturing takes shape.
Looking to Connect
If you’re planning to attend, I’d love to connect! Whether you’re a fellow consultant, a tech enthusiast, or just passionate about the industry, let’s meet up. There’s nothing like face-to-face conversations to spark new ideas and collaborations. Feel free to reach out to me ahead of time if you’d like to schedule a meeting, or simply catch me on the show floor.
10 Tips and Tricks for IMTS Attendees
Over the years, I’ve gathered a few tips that can help you not just survive, but thrive at large industry events like IMTS. Here are some practical suggestions to make the most of your time in Chicago:
Plan Ahead: IMTS is massive as is the McCormick Place, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed, or lost. Take some time to review the exhibitor list and floor plan before you arrive. Prioritize the booths and sessions that align with your interests and goals. Use the event web site or app to create a personalized schedule.
Comfort is Key: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. Chicago weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for anything from a chilly morning with wind (it is the windy city after all) to a warm afternoon. Don’t forget to carry a small backpack or tote for your essentials.
Networking Like a Pro: Don’t be shy—introduce yourself to people, exchange business cards (physical or electronic), and engage in conversations. The connections you make here could lead to valuable partnerships down the road. Consider using a QR code app or the new iOS feature NameDrop, or an app like popl to exchange contact information seamlessly.
Stay Charged and Connected: Bring a portable charger for your devices. With all the networking, note-taking, and photo-snapping, your phone’s battery might not last the day. Also, ensure your wireless security by using a VPN and enabling a firewall, especially when using public Wi-Fi.
Take Breaks and Stay Hydrated: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but make sure to take a few moments to rest and recharge. Find a quiet spot to sit down, grab a coffee, and reflect on what you’ve seen so far. Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated—soda and coffee don’t count!
Be Mindful of Your Health: With large crowds and busy schedules, it’s important to take care of yourself. Carry hand sanitizer to reduce the likelihood of picking up the latest conference cold.
Secure Your Valuables: Keep an eye on your laptop and other valuables. Events like IMTS can attract all kinds of people, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Be cautious with your tech, especially in crowded spaces.
Static Electricity Alert: Chicago’s dry air can lead to a buildup of static electricity. Be careful when touching your devices—consider carrying a dryer sheet or some coins in your pocket to minimize the risk of static shocks.
Post-Event Follow-Up: After the event, follow up with the people you’ve met. A quick email or LinkedIn message can go a long way in maintaining those connections. Review your notes and identify key takeaways, potential partnerships, and opportunities for your consulting work.
Get Outside and Explore: If you have time, take a break from the convention center to explore Chicago. A bit of fresh air can do wonders, and the city has a lot to offer—from its iconic architecture to its vibrant food scene.
Top 5 Chicago Landmarks or Things to See. There is so much more to see, but here are a few.
- Highlight: Home to the iconic "Cloud Gate" (aka "The Bean"), Millennium Park is a cultural hub featuring art, music, and architecture. It's a great spot for a stroll and photo ops.
- Highlight: One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute houses a vast collection of works from around the world, including famous pieces like Grant Wood’s "American Gothic."
- Highlight: Explore Chicago’s stunning skyline from the water on an architectural boat tour. Learn about the history and design of the city’s most famous buildings while cruising along the Chicago River.
- Highlight: Navy Pier is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering attractions such as the Ferris wheel, theaters, shops, and dining with beautiful views of Lake Michigan.
- Highlight: Experience breathtaking views of Chicago from the Skydeck on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower). The glass ledge allows you to step out over the city for a thrilling perspective.
- Highlight: Experience breathtaking views of Chicago from the Skydeck on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower). The glass ledge allows you to step out over the city for a thrilling perspective.
Top 5 Iconic Chicago Foods
- Famous For: Chicago-Style Hot Dogs and Italian Beef
- Highlight: Portillo's is a Chicago institution known for its classic Chicago-style hot dogs, topped with mustard, onions, relish, tomato, pickle, sport peppers, and celery salt, all on a poppy seed bun. Their Italian beef sandwiches, often dipped in gravy and served with sweet or hot peppers, are also a must-try.
- Famous For: Deep-Dish Pizza
- Highlight: Lou Malnati’s is synonymous with Chicago deep-dish pizza. The buttery, flaky crust, layers of mozzarella, and tangy tomato sauce make this a quintessential Chicago dish. Be sure to order the "Malnati Chicago Classic" for the full experience.
- Famous For: Italian Beef Sandwiches
- Highlight: Al's Beef is one of the original purveyors of the Italian beef sandwich, a Chicago staple since 1938. Thinly sliced beef, soaked in au jus, is piled high on a soft roll and can be topped with sweet or hot giardiniera.
- Famous For: Stuffed Deep-Dish Pizza
- Highlight: Giordano's takes Chicago-style pizza to the next level with their stuffed deep-dish. Layers of cheese and toppings are encased in dough, then covered with more dough and sauce, creating a pizza pie that's as delicious as it is filling.
- Famous For: Garrett Mix (Cheese and Caramel Popcorn)
- Highlight: Garrett Popcorn is a Chicago legend, particularly for their Garrett Mix, a blend of sweet caramel popcorn and savory cheese popcorn. The combination of flavors has made this a must-try treat for anyone visiting the city.
IMTS 2024 promises to be an incredible experience, and I’m excited to see what’s in store. If you’re attending, let’s make the most of it together. Looking forward to seeing you (and deep dish pizza) in Chicago!
Cheers,
Shaan
LinkedIn Shaan Hurley | LinkedIn
