RAPID + TCT 2025 to Return to Detroit

RAPID + TCT, a large North American event for additive manufacturing and industrial 3D printing, will return to Detroit April 8-10, 2025, at Huntington Place. Coproduced by SME and Rapid News Publications, this annual event will celebrate a milestone of 35 years, according to event organizers.

For the first time, RAPID + TCT announced its colocation with three major industry events: SME’s AeroDef Manufacturing, showcasing advanced technologies in the aerospace and defense sectors; SAE’s trademark mobility event―the World Congress Experience (WCX), which emphasizes innovation in advanced mobility; and America Makes’ Spring Technical Review and Exchange (TRX), a public-private partnership for AM technology and education.

“We’re excited to bring four significant communities in complementary sectors together in Detroit—a true manufacturing town, the home of automotive innovation and heart of mobility advancement offering unparalleled access to knowledge and networking opportunities that will accelerate widespread adoption of advanced technologies and drive the future of manufacturing,” says Steve Prahalis, chief operating officer, SME.

With one registration badge, participants will gain access to the exhibition floor, showcasing the latest advancements in additive manufacturing alongside developments in mobility and aerospace.

“This dynamic combination offers attendees unparalleled access to industry experts, groundbreaking sessions and the latest advancements across automotive engineering, additive manufacturing and 3D technologies. The synergy of WCX’s focus on automotive innovation and RAPID + TCT’s emphasis on transformative manufacturing solutions fosters cross-industry collaboration, making it the ultimate event for those looking to lead and inspire the next generation of product development and engineering solutions,” says Chris Ciuca, vice president of programs at SAE International.

Attendees can look forward to the return of the Executive Perspectives Keynote Series, where industry luminaries and thought leaders from across the global AM ecosystem will share insights on the future of AM technologies; and the Discovery Zone, where  technologies from startups and newcomers will be showcased. RAPID + TCT will also recognize notable leaders with the AM Industry Awards and hear from innovators during the third-annual AM Pitchfest competition.

“This event is about forging and nurturing connections, pushing this innovative industry forward, and collaborating with peers and industry leaders about the next big idea,” says Duncan Wood, CEO of the Rapid News Group. “Through the unwavering support of our key stakeholders—from partners and exhibitors to speakers and attendees—RAPID + TCT has become and remains North America’s most influential and impactful industrial 3D-printing event.”

As part of the lead-up to RAPID + TCT, SME will host a virtual event on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024, at 11 a.m. EST. This session will serve as a continuation of the 2024 Executive Perspectives Keynote Series, featuring panelists discussing the current state of the additive manufacturing landscape and what lies ahead in 2025. They will explore topics like optimizing reliability, achieving scalable 3D printing across diverse sectors, advancing healthcare applications and paving the way to serial production. 

Registration for RAPID + TCT 2025 will also open on Dec. 3, 2024, with a 35% discount on conference passes to celebrate 35 years of innovation in additive manufacturing.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.