More than 150 professionals from across the metalforming community gathered in Nashville, TN, February 2–4 for the 2026 Metal Stamping Technology Conference. The event delivered forward‑looking keynotes, technical education, exhibits and networking designed to help stamping, die design and die construction companies stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
Monday: Early Arrival Meet and Greet
Attendees arriving early kicked off the conference with a relaxed networking event at JBJ’s in downtown Nashville. The evening set the tone for the days ahead—casual conversations, new connections and a warm welcome to Music City.
Tuesday: Opening Keynote, Exhibits and Reception
The conference opened with exhibits and a full room of industry professionals ready to dive into the latest trends shaping metal stamping.
PMA President David Klotz welcomed attendees and set the stage for a packed program.
Opening Keynote: Forging Ahead in a Shifting Manufacturing Landscape—Laurie Harbour, Partner, Wipfli LLP
Laurie Harbour explored the forces shaping manufacturing in 2026 and beyond, offering a candid look at workforce challenges, supply-chain realities and the strategic decisions companies must make to stay competitive.
Morning Sessions
- Considerations When Choosing a Coil Line—John Heuring, Dallas Industries
- Training Is Slowing You Down. Here’s How to Fix It.—Connie King, Precision Metalforming Association, and Lute Atieh
Afternoon Sessions
- Methods and Tips for Solving Progressive Die Problems—Peter Ulintz, Pace Technologies
- Assessing Your Metalworking Fluids—The Top Five Reasons Why —Bob Anderson, Tower Metalworking Fluids
- Considerations for Laser Processing & Case Study: Welded Stamped Bushings—Bill Adler, Stripmatic Products, and Paul Denney, Pratt & Whitney
The day wrapped with a lively reception and exhibit time, giving attendees a chance to connect with suppliers, compare solutions and continue conversations sparked throughout the sessions.
Wednesday: Steel, AI and Closing Sessions
The final day again opened with exhibits and another strong lineup of speakers.
Morning Sessions
- A Pragmatic Approach to Industrial AI and the Robot Uprising—Paul Boris, Murray Mentor
- High-Speed Presses Combined with Servo Axis to Increase Production Rates—Scott Randall, Bruderer Machinery
Afternoon Sessions
- Automatic In Die Part Monitoring & Tool Adjustments—James Barrett, Link Systems
- Challenges in Manufacturing: Key Takeaways and Actionable Solutions—Dean Phillips, Precision Metalforming Association
Looking Ahead
The 2026 Metal Stamping Technology Conference delivered exactly what the industry needs right now: clarity, connection and practical strategies for navigating change. Attendees left Nashville with new insights, new contacts and renewed momentum for the year ahead.
Stamping 2027 will return to Nashville on January 25-27. If you want to be notified when registration opens, let us know here.
Check out all the event photos here.