Prepare to get Savvy at TechED

This June in Orlando, automation industry professionals have a unique opportunity to gather and learn about the latest innovation technologies, applications and proven best practices to implement into their own operations.

The annual Rockwell Automation TechED™ event is a week-long, information-packed, hands-on learning experience for industry professionals seeking to stay abreast of the constantly evolving technologies and process solutions designed to better connect people and devices for improved operations and safety.

“Our entire strategy is about bringing The Connected Enterprise® to life — bringing information together to make people more productive, more efficient,” says Rockwell Automation CEO Blake Moret. TechED continues to focus on innovative strategies that make the most of current automation and control system assets available while planning for the future.

Designed for users of Rockwell Automation products and technology solutions, TechED can help all levels of an operation optimize production data, increase yield, reduce energy costs, build secure networks, and much more in beginner to advanced training.

“I found how fast and far software has progressed and see the need to intentionally keep up,” said one participant at last year’s event. “I also learned much of how The Connected Enterprise® works together and got some ideas for the future of our company.”

Learning Opportunities Abound

About 2,300 attendees from companies around the world will learn about the global trends in industry and society that are driving the Rockwell Automation organization forward.

End users, system integrators, distributors, partners and machine builders learn from industry experts in a classroom environment and experience first-hand how peers are solving many common manufacturing and production challenges.

More than 180 unique sessions are offered during the multiday event, including thought-provoking keynote presentations, expert-led sessions, hands-on labs and innovative demonstrations. These sessions help attendees learn from industry leaders how to achieve operational excellence, take their skills to the next level and develop plans to help drive increased productivity and profitability.

“I enjoy attending to get a better understanding on some of the product direction and to have a dedicated period of time to learn more about the products (as opposed to "spare time" at the office),” said another attendee of last year’s event. “Networking with Rockwell product managers and my peers is key to helping me see trends and new ways to approach solving applications and overcoming business challenges.”

With so many jam-packed and informative sessions to choose from, Rockwell Automation has made it easy for attendees to find those most appealing to them. This year’s TechED features nine areas of focus: Control, Process, Digital Engineering, Information and Analytics, Networks, Safety and Security, System, Technology and Services, and Visualization and Collaboration.

“Being able to attend sessions on multiple subject matters and practice the skills learned in lecture were most beneficial,” noted a participant from the 2018 TechED event.

Another popular session at TechED is the guest keynote speaker event. This year, attendees will hear from Nicole Malachowski, a retired fighter pilot and squadron commander and the first female pilot in the United States Air Force “Thunderbirds” air demonstration squadron.

 Recently, she’s been inducted into the 2019 National Women’s Hall of Fame. Check out the sidebar to learn more about Nicole’s many achievements.

Earn Professional Development Hour Credits

By attending sessions at the event, participants can earn Professional Development Hour (PDH) credits. This program includes the discussion sessions and hands-on labs. Attendees will earn 1 PDH credit per hour of each session.

These credits can be submitted to certification agencies in 48 states to complete requirements for Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Equivalency requirements for PDH to CEU credits vary by state, so please consult your state licensing board.

Networking Opportunities

The event also includes a two networking and hospitality events. TechED kicks off on Sunday night with a welcome reception from 4-8:00 p.m. On Wednesday evening, the popular family friendly EDfest will take place from 7-11:30 pm at Universal Studios.

Admission to the reception and EDfest is included in the attendee registration fee. Guests are welcome to attend EDfest with the purchase of a guest ticket ($75 for anyone 13 years and older, under 13 is free).

TechED discounted registration pricing of $1,399 will be offered until May 2. After May 2, the registration fee is $1,699.

Learn more about the event, hotel and registration.

^{The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork™ is published by Putman Media, Inc.}