

Overview of the HITEC 2025 Conference
The HITEC 2025 Conference, held in the vibrant city of Minneapolis, Minnesota, served as a significant platform for innovation and collaboration in the field of manufacturing technology. This event brought together experts, researchers, and industry leaders from across the nation, all eager to share insights, advancements, and future trends in advanced technological education and the manufacturing sector.

Participation of the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing
The National Science Foundation-funded National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM) played a pivotal role in this year's conference. Our participation was marked by an enthusiastic engagement with attendees and a commitment to fostering dialogue on the future of manufacturing.

Hosting a Significant Interest Group
One of the highlights of our involvement was the hosting of a Significant Interest Group (SIG). This gathering provided a unique opportunity for participants to delve into specific topics of mutual interest, facilitating in-depth discussions and networking among professionals who share a passion for advancing manufacturing technologies. The SIG focused on critical areas such as sustainable manufacturing practices, digital transformation in production processes, and the integration of artificial intelligence in manufacturing operations. Attendees engaged in lively discussions, sharing their experiences, challenges, and innovative solutions that could shape the future landscape of the industry.

Engaging Sessions and Presentations
Throughout the conference, we organized and participated in several informative sessions that highlighted cutting-edge research and developments in the manufacturing sector. These sessions featured presentations from leading experts in the field, covering a diverse range of topics from emerging materials and processes to the latest advancements in mechatronics and AI. Each session was designed to encourage interaction, allowing attendees to ask questions, share their insights, and explore collaborative opportunities. The knowledge shared during these sessions was invaluable, providing attendees with practical takeaways that they could implement in their own work.

Exhibit Hall and Poster Session Participation
In addition to our sessions and SIG, we were also actively present in the exhibit hall, where we showcased our latest MET 2 cohort research projects. Our booth attracted a wide array of visitors, including students, industry professionals, and academic researchers, all eager to learn more about the NCNGM's contributions to next-generation manufacturing. We provided demonstrations of our innovative technologies and methodologies, which sparked interest and discussions about potential collaborations. Moreover, the poster session was another avenue through which we shared our research findings. Our posters detailed various projects that the NCNGM is currently undertaking, emphasizing our commitment to advancing manufacturing through research and education. This interactive format allowed for one-on-one conversations with attendees, fostering a deeper understanding of our work and its implications for the industry.

Conclusion
Overall, the HITEC 2025 Conference was a resounding success for the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing. Our participation not only enhanced our visibility within the manufacturing community but also reinforced our mission to drive innovation and collaboration in the field. The connections made, ideas exchanged, and knowledge gained during this event will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing evolution of manufacturing practices and technologies in the years to come. We look forward to continuing these discussions and building upon the momentum generated at the conference as we strive to shape the future of manufacturing together.
