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The Big M Conference Brings Leaders In Manufacturing To Cobo Center

By Edward Cardenas

DETROIT (CBS Detroit) - THE BIG M conference is bringing together leaders in manufacturing, and those who will one day work in the field, for a two-day conference in Cobo Center.

The event, hosted by the SME, will be held from June 2-4 and will showcase the latest in manufacturing technology and allow those in the industry to connect, give students the opportunity to interact with professionals while showing off their skills in a variety of competitions.

"We are back in Detroit for our second year focusing on advanced manufacturing with industry leaders, speakers, educators and technology that is on the forefront of advanced manufacturing," said Christine Longroy, event manager for SME's THE BIG M, who added the event is geared for those in a wide-variety of manufacturing fields. "Whether you are part of the aerospace industry, defense industry, automotive medical, there are technologies and experts there you can see, get up close to, talk with connect with and learn from."

This is the second year for the conference, which attracts attendees in a field with an estimated purchasing power of $5 billion.

Those attending the event will be able to attend keynotes and hear from representatives from organizations including Google, ExxonMobil and Autodesk. They will also be able attend educational sessions on topics including advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, lightweighting advancements and the skills gap.

"We are really proud to be bringing these relevant topics so people can determine how they can invest in technology, and in their people ,to grow their business," Longroy said. "Manufacturing is an economic driver and very critical to our growth and development.

Students from Bad Axe and Southfield will also be able to show off their skills in a vehicle build competition
to convert a gas-powered go-kart and convert it to electric power. A winner will be crowned when the vehicle is completely converted to electric power and then driven a predetermined distance. There will also be an underwater robotics challenge and 3D printing of a wind turbine.

"SME is supporting and driving the future of manufacturing by developing the knowledge and skills for the industry and THE BIG M event allows us to do that," she added. "We have leading OEM suppliers attending this event. If you want to grow your business, and have access those leaders, attend THE BIG M."

For more information, visit the event website. WWJ listeners can enter the code BIGMWWJ when registering for a special rate.

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