It’s finally happening: 300,000 square feet of show floor. 700+ exhibitors. Hundreds of conference sessions and endless networking opportunities. That’s right—it’s almost time for Automate, the only event in North America entirely dedicated to the latest developments in automation solutions! Whether you’re here to see cutting-edge technology, plan on attending as many of our 125+ conference sessions as you can or want to fill your contact list with a lot of new professional connections, we’re here to ensure you get the most out of all four days. So, here are a few tips on what to know and how to prepare.
BEFORE YOU GO
Familiarize yourself with your surroundings
Take a look at our show schedule and special events along with our floor plan to start planning your days. Make note of exhibitors you want to see, sessions and events you want to attend, and people you want to connect with before you arrive. And if you’re attending the Automate Conference, make sure to review the conference agenda. Be strategic about your approach! There are miles of opportunities waiting, so using your time wisely is key. You might even want to reach out to people you’d like to meet with beforehand and schedule a meeting.
Prepare to spend your time networking
You’re going to spend a good amount of your time connecting with manufacturers, suppliers, engineers and decision-makers. If this is your first time attending Automate or you’re new to automation, check out any of our educational resources to learn more about the solutions you’ll see in action on the show floor. That way, when it comes to talking shop or getting your hands on some of the solutions or tech, you’ll be ready to ask the right questions. For an additional fee, you can also attend our networking events to wine and dine with fellow professionals or celebrate the accomplishments of legendary industry figures.
Make sure you have the supplies you need
Innovation, insights and inspiration are around every corner at Automate. From making connections to attending keynote and conference sessions, you’ll want to remember everything you hear and learn. There’s a lot to take in, so no matter how good your memory may be, keep a pen and notebook handy—and maybe some business cards too. And last, but certainly not least: wear comfortable shoes. You’re going to be on your feet for hours at a time throughout all four days; you wouldn’t want to be distracted by sore soles.
Finalize your travel arrangements
If you’re booking a hotel in Detroit, Automate will feature a daily shuttle service between select hotels and the convention center. Want to save on a Delta flight to Detroit? Use the event code when booking your flight for an approximate 3 percent to 10 percent savings, depending on your booking class. Finally, plan to spend some time exploring Detroit. There’s a lot to see in the Motor City (read on for just a few examples); you’ll want to experience as much as possible!
ONCE YOU ARRIVE
See game changers live and in action
Our show floor will be buzzing with product showcases and live demos of the latest automation solutions. It’s rare to find all these solutions and possibilities in one easily accessible place, so be sure to take advantage.
Don’t miss the Automate Theater and Keynotes
We’re thrilled to have industry giants as our keynote speakers this year like Barbara Humpton and Daniela Rus—and seeing them is free with your show badge. We’ll also be featuring more can’t-miss speakers and sessions like the IFR Executive Roundtable, The Automate Startup Challenge, AI & ChatGPT Advancements and more in the Automate Theater.
Take your networking to local restaurants
Whether it’s new connections or people you’ve reached out to ahead of time, meet up at local eateries after you’re done for the day. You’ll find unique fine dining available covering many food types. If quick and casual like a great burger and fries is more your speed, you’ll find that too. Into breweries? Detroit has a bunch, or you can get a drink at one of the many watering holes—there are some real gems in town. Just make sure to make reservations whenever possible—Detroit is a food lover’s dream, and seats fill up quickly.
Before you hit any restaurants, though, cap off Monday at the Motor City Mingle: Automate Opening Reception! Just $25 to get the party started with food, drinks and music.
Take a break
While you’re in town, be sure to see more of Detroit itself. Stroll along the beautiful International RiverWalk for some fresh air, rent a bicycle and head to the Dequindre Cut, or brave a scooter to get around. Visit art galleries like the Detroit Institute of Arts and museums such as the Henry Ford, Motown Museum, Detroit Historical Museum, Charles Wright African American Museum and more. And don’t forget about shops such as Shinola Watches, Third Man Records and many local artisan markets. Detroit has plenty to see and do! Plus, it’s been dubbed one of the country’s growing innovation hubs, so you never know what may inspire you.
If you haven’t registered for the Automate Show or Conference yet, don’t miss this chance to be a part of the future of automation. Register for Automate for FREE today!
« View All Blogs