Make the most of your time at METALCON 2024!

By Emma Peterson. 

Get the scoop on the variety of fun networking opportunities and events happening in Atlanta, Georgia this October-November! 

Make sure you’re at the Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) from October 30 to November 1, 2024, for this year’s METALCON show! There is no better metal construction and design industry event anywhere in the world.  

With big-name companies like CIDAN Machinery Group, Sherwin-Williams METALVUE and Coil Coatings, ATAS International, Drexel Metals,   MetalForming and Sheffield Metals International sponsoring, there is sure to be an incredible trade show floor full of demonstrations and products that can take your business to the next level. Make sure you come check in with The Coffee Shops crew at booth #901 to see what’s new with MetalCoffeeShop. And with associations like the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) and the Metal Contractors Association (MCA) also filling out the sponsor list, this is the perfect place to do some networking and make connections. Whether you’re a CEO, a general manager, an architect, a project manager, an installer or any other position in the metal industry, this is the place to be!  

And this year, one of the big pushes has been to have more networking events than ever! The goal of this is to extend the opportunity to learn beyond the incredible educational sessions at the show. By spending time together off the show floor and outside the classroom, attendees will get an incredible experience that fosters communication and collaboration. Some events, like the Oktoberfest Free Beer Tour will be happening throughout the entire course of the show. But there are many others that you’ll want to mark on your calendar so you don’t miss out on anything! 

Wednesday, October 30 

• Metal Mash Up Party: Don’t miss this opportunity to meet industry colleagues and make new connections. Any interaction can spark new innovative conversations and ideas! No registration required, just stop by from 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. at the Deck Booth #1300. 
• Metal & Mimosas: Join the Women of Metal Construction for breakfast and networking from 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. at the GWCC Meeting Room A307. Gather alongside inspiring women shaping the industry and encouraging women’s success. Pre-registration is required, which you can do online. This is the first of this event and the industry is truly coming together to support it! Among many, MetalCoffeeShop, CIDAN Machinery Group, ATAS International, DrexelMetals, MetalForming and Sheffield Metals are sponsoring it so there is no extra cost to registered attendees! 
• Global Matchmaking: This event is all about connecting international exhibitors and US based distributors to engage in personalized one-on-one meetings. These are happening in the GWCC Meeting Room A313 at 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Pre-registration is required and can be done online. 
• Speed Networking:  “The Exchange,” is a designated area for attendees, exhibitors and industry professionals to experience the power of connection. Stop by from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Exchange Booth #854. Online pre-registration is required. 

Thursday, October 31 

• Escape to the Backyard: Each day during show hours, escape to The Backyard Booth #330, a relaxing new area on the show floor. Throughout each day, attendees can play simulated golf and compete for prizes, awarded on the final day of the show. No registration required, just stop by. For the special 19th hole reception, make sure to come by on October 31, 2024, 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. 
• Roundtable Discussion Forum: Gain valuable insights and collaborative solutions in these topic-driven small group forums, facilitated by an expert. Whether you’re looking to tackle workforce challenges, navigate the industry as a newcomer, debunk common myths or explore cutting-edge trends and technologies, there’s a discussion here for you. The discussion will be going from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Exchange Area Booth #854. Cost is included in your METALCON registration but pre-registration for the event is required. 

Friday, November 1 

• Future Leaders Friday!: Future Leaders of METALCON is a program for rising stars, management trainees, apprentices and others, roughly ages 40 and under, ready to take their career to the next level. METALCON is your gateway to unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, networking and education. You can save $50 today with promo code FLMC for registrants under the age of 40, register now. View your specially curated agenda here.  
• Giving Back to Atlanta Veteran: Donate for your chance to win a special prize at The Deck or online any time before or during METALCON. All donations go to America’s Fund & Semper Fi. For the Check + Raffle Prize Presentation, come by the Deck Booth at 11:30 a.m. on Friday! No registration required, stop by and claim your prize! 
• Passport to Cash Prizes!: Pick up your passport at registration and visit each exhibitor featured inside, collect a stamp then drop it off at The METALCON Deck for your chance to win $500 cash! The cash prize winner will be announced at 11:30 a.m. on Friday! Make sure to stop by the Deck Booth #1300. This event is complimentary with your METALCON registration. 

For more about the events and activities happening at METALCON 2024, visit their website!