FROM THE EDITOR

While 2020’s second quarter showed some promise of growth, there is little surprise that the world is still recovering and adapting from the impact of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. Procedural changes such as enhanced distancing protocols, requiring the use of personal protective equipment, and even full shutdowns of major cities and states have been used to flatten the curve. The manufacturing sector has been more than resilient to these changes. Many manufacturers have learned to not only adapt, but have shifted their production to help in the ongoing efforts to combat the threat of the virus. The Washington Post reported that our shutdowns and social distancing prevented a potential of 60 million cases of infection, and many states have already begun the process of fully reopening. The fact remains that until there is a vaccine, or highly effective treatment protocol, the dangers of COVID-19 are still legitimate, and should not be understated.

For the first time since World War II, the International Manufacturing Technology Show has had to cancel. State restrictions mandate that the city of Chicago will not be able to hold large conventions or trade shows until they manage to enter their fifth phase of reopening. Until there is some form of reliable treatment, largescale events like IMTS, may have to be put on hold. The implications of this are far reaching for the entire industry, as well as providing further financial impact on manufacturers, suppliers, and even local businesses that rely on these trade events as a source of income. IMTS has prepared two comprehensive digital programs that will provide the shows exhibitors an opportunity to connect with manufacturing professionals, and will return to McCormick Place in 2022.

Precautions and cancelations, while an inconvenience, are the correct measures to adhere to while the virus remains a threat. Many forget, that in 1920, America was well into the third wave of the Spanish Flu pandemic. John and Horace Dodge, manufacturing pioneers and founders of the Dodge Brothers Company, attended an auto show held in New York. While technology has changed dramatically in a hundred years’ time, the behavior of the typical exhibitor or attendee of events such as these, has not changed much at all. Groups of people would be unable to maintain social distancing requirements. They would shake hands and engage in conversations. It was here that the brothers, who had built an automotive rival to Henry Ford’s Ford Motor Company, contracted influenza and pneumonia, and both would be dead before the years end.

The world, of course, did not stop then, and will not stop now. Manufacturers and fabricators across the country will continue to adapt, and suppliers will continue to meet their ongoing needs. This includes equipment that helps end-users adapt to distancing requirements, further applications of automation technology, and even more digital solutions that can provide immediate remote assistance. Manufacturers have the opportunity to grow and make the changes that can lay a foundation for the next hundred years. We will be here for you. Industrial Machinery Digest remains committed to providing our readers with the most extensive Industrial publication.

Stay safe,

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