VIDEO: Community, Technology and the Future of Moldmaking: Notes from IMTS

Watch this video conversation with Bill Herman, Director of Sales & Membership for the Association of Manufacturing Technology (AMT) at IMTS 2024 when we talk about the technology advances and workforce challenges the moldmaking community faces with innovation, knowledge-sharing and a commitment to precision manufacturing.

Twenty-eight years into serving as Editorial Director of MoldMaking Technology (MMT), I'm still amazed by the unique blend of art, craft and science that defines our industry. Or should I say, our community? Because that's really what moldmaking is – a tight-knit group of innovators who aren't just colleagues, but problem-solvers and knowledge-sharers at heart.

Walking the IMTS show floor this year, it's clear that technology is evolving to meet our industry's biggest challenges. From advanced five-axis machining solutions to AI-powered design tools, exhibitors focused on working smarter, faster and more efficiently. We saw impressive developments in wire laser metal 3D printing, integrated automation systems and enhanced EDM capabilities that are transforming how molds are manufactured.

But perhaps the most pressing topic among moldmakers isn't about machinery at all – it's about people. The skills gap, particularly in mold design, remains a critical challenge as we approach 2030. However, I'm encouraged by the innovative solutions emerging: new partnerships with technical schools, specialized courses at institutions like UMass and PSU Behrend, and even virtual reality tools for mold design training.

Take MoldMaking Technology’s 2024 Leadtime Leader Winner Dynamic Tool Corp., for example. They're tackling these challenges head-on by embracing automation in their hard-cutting and sinker EDM cells, even developing custom software when off-the-shelf solutions weren't enough. It's this kind of innovative thinking that keeps our industry moving forward.

Despite the endless stream of information available today, MMT's mission remains clear: delivering curated, relevant content to help moldmakers stay competitive. Because in this industry, where precision meets creativity and every project brings unique challenges, having the right information at the right time isn't just helpful – it's essential.