The Association For Manufacturing Technology (AMT) has announced the Smartforce Student Summit will take place Monday, Sept. 8, through Saturday, Sept. 13, during the week of the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2014, which will be held at McCormick Place in Chicago.

The Smartforce Student Summit will be a place where educators, administrators, students, and parents can experience an in-depth introduction to manufacturing. The summit will feature interactive displays from leading national education organizations, manufacturing technology providers, career and technical schools, community colleges, and engineering schools. Summit attendees will also have an opportunity to visit IMTS, North America’s largest industrial trade show, which features the world’s most innovative manufacturing technology, attracting more than 100,000 visitors to exhibition space totaling more than 1 million square feet.

“The importance of STEM education has been a hot topic because of the value it delivers for careers and for the overall economy. With manufacturing experiencing a massive shortage of skilled workers, we really want students to see first-hand the fantastic career opportunities available within the industry,” said Greg Jones, AMT vice president, smartforce development. “We’ve seen an increase in STEM programs and STEM academies around the country, and the Smartforce Student Summit at IMTS provides an ideal venue for students and educators to experience real-world examples that connect STEM education to rewarding career choices.”

Students have long been a part of IMTS, with school groups, scouting troops and others touring the show floor to gain an understanding of the technologies utilized within manufacturing. The Smartforce Student Summit will ramp up the student experience at IMTS by offering speakers, hands-on displays, and a chance for students to interact one-on-one with young manufacturing professionals.