CAMX 2016: Global Trends

CAMX: Where Students Become the Teachers

Almost everything that happens in the composites industry is done with the future in mind. During each CAMX, attendees get the tools they need to drive the industry forward. It seems fitting that this year’s CAMX will place an emphasis on the composite innovators of the future. This year, CAMX will be a chance for the students to be the teachers. The show will feature a closing luncheon, September 29 from 1-2 p.m., where student panelists will offer their insights on how advances in composites are changing the world.

“The opportunity to be on the relative forefront of a field that has the potential to push the world into a new age is truly exciting,” says Thomas Nanni, a senior at the University of Miami who will be speaking on the panel. “The ability to tailor-fit a material to its intended application will not be a privilege or a novelty in the future – it will be a necessity.”

Caleb Lystrup, a PhD student at Brigham Young University who will also speak on the panel, shares Nanni’s excitement and envisions a world where composites are used to make smart clothing, inexpensive high-performance car parts, lightweight sky scrapers, incredible aerospace applications, and more.

“When I retire, I want composites to be everywhere,” said Lystrup. “I think of environment-friendly composite materials that are affordable to customers. Maybe we’ll start calling silverware ‘compositeware.’ I think of social enterprises, where emerging markets are combining local materials in unique and innovative ways to boost their economies. I think of businesses across the globe collaborating and competing to make commercial space ventures a reality.”

Another student on the panel, Kristin Hardin, a PhD student at The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), envisions composites being as ubiquitous as pure plastics. She would like to see composites used “extensively in commodity products,” and hopes to see an increased use of composites in the automotive and mass transit sectors as well as in infrastructure to create bigger buildings and bridges.

“As in the last 40 years for plastics, people cannot go through daily life without constantly touching and seeing plastics,” Hardin said. “I’d like to see composites this way in my future. Also, I envision a sustainable future for composites and advanced materials.”

While the students presenting at CAMX are excited about the future of the composites, the industry has struggled to attract young talent that is interested in joining the revolution for a while. Lystrup says there’s a lot that can be done to better ingratiate students with the world of composites.

“I am all about younger generations knowing everything they can about composites … I hope to see more young engineers excited about composite materials – not just their bosses,” said Lystrup. “I hope that MBA students will have a basic idea of how composites work and where they are most useful. I hope that education systems across the globe will include composite materials in their basic science curriculum. I see middle schools teaching about composite materials during physical science.”

Tickets to the luncheon are included with Premium and Full Conference registrations. All others can purchase a ticket online or onsite. Thank you to our Luncheon Sponsor: NAC/Interplastic Corporation.

Download CAMX App Today

The CAMX 2016 mobile app is available for download in the App Store and Google Play now. Search for “CAMX 16“ to download the app to your mobile device. The app provides important conference updates, maps, the Conference Program, exhibitor listings, and more!

All Aboard! Important CAMX Travel Information

Getting to CAMX is easy! With four area airports servicing Anaheim, countless ground transportation options, and exclusive travel discounts for CAMX attendees, you can conveniently arrive in Anaheim. Find all resources and information for CAMX travel and logistics here, and make your plans to attend CAMX 2016 today!

Airport Information

Ground transportation information (Approximate rates to & from Anaheim)

Make the Most of Your Time in Anaheim

Anaheim, California – located in the heart of Southern California’s manufacturing and Aerospace Hub –  is home to Disneyland, Disney’s California Adventure, countless attractions, dining experiences, and overall excellent place to have some fun while you’re visiting for business. While attending CAMX 2016, take advantage of all the city has to offer. CAMX attendees are eligible for discounted tickets to either Disneyland® Park or Disney California Adventure® Park! Find out all there is to do in Anaheim.

There’s Still Time to Register for CAMX

CAMX offers a variety of registration packages that match the unique needs of professionals at all levels, background, and experience. View all registration packages and register online to secure the best rate and value.

CAMX Premium Registration provides full access and the best value. Learn more and register.

CAMX Full Conference Registration provides full access to conference programming, excluding Pre-conference Tutorials (must be purchased separately). Learn more and register.

The Show Sampler Level allows attendees to experience a variety of conference features and programing, including access to Exhibit Hall, General Session with Keynote, Tickets to four (4) Conference Program sessions held Sept. 27-29, and more. Learn more and register.

Register for the CAMX Race and win CASH!

Join the CAMX Race, an exciting game where students and young professionals use their mobile phones to discover new exhibitors and innovators while answering trivia questions that could be worth cash prizes up to $500, on Wednesday, September 28.  Separate registration is required. Exhibitors can also sign up to participate. Sponsored by BYK and Polynt. Learn more here.

RSVP for a Free Breakfast for First Time CAMX Attendees!

First time CAMX attendees are invited to a First Time Attendees Orientation Breakfast, Tuesday morning, September 27. Meet other first-time attendees, learn tips to help you make the most of your time in the exhibit hall and sessions, and discover all that Anaheim has to offer! Email info@thecamx.org to RSVP, and CAMX will confirm your attendance in early September.

Make a Plan with MyCAMX

MyCAMX Planner combines planning and logistics into one easy-to-use tool. Use the MyCAMX Planner on www.theCAMX.org or the CAMX App to:

  • Find and select exhibitors to visit
  • Create a customized Conference Program plan
  • View facility maps to navigate the exhibit hall and conference program
  • Schedule meetings with exhibitors…and more!

Start planning your CAMX experience today. Visit the MyCAMX Planner here.

Stay Connected

Join the CAMX social media communities to receive updates on speakers, exhibiting companies, session topics, product displays and demonstrations, as well as technology and innovation. Plus, watch videos, crowdsource your questions, and network with fellow attendees.