NASA and SME Collaborate at WESTEC 2015

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The National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA) will be featured at the SME Technology Interchange at WESTEC 2015, Sept. 15-17 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The SME Technology Interchange is part of an ongoing collaboration between NASA and SME to advance technology use in the manufacturing industry for regional economic development.

Business leaders and technology experts from NASA will be at WESTEC 2015 with select technologies to share their expertise, identify new resources and forge partnerships with companies of all sizes. The SME Technology Interchange aims to drive economic growth by showcasing technology and process innovation, and connecting manufacturers with new solutions and expertise available from NASA.

"The SME Technology Interchange is a great way for NASA to engage with the manufacturing community to foster and grow new business and technology opportunities," said Robert J. Shaw, PhD, director, Ventures and Partnerships, NASA. "The WESTEC event provides us with an opportunity to be involved with a broad and diverse set of manufacturers and allows us to uncover collaboration opportunities in the region and industry."

WESTEC attendees will have an opportunity to see mature technologies developed by NASA including additive manufacturing, communication and guidance systems, advanced materials and nanotechnology. NASA experts and business leaders will be available to discuss industry applications and best practices in production, as well as development and co-development opportunities. More information on the technologies and opportunities can be found at westeconline.com/smetech.

"NASA has a long history as a technology innovator and the SME Technology Interchange is a great opportunity to bring their leadership in research and innovation to the manufacturing community," said Lauralyn McDaniel, industry manager, SME. "Attendees will be provided with a unique opportunity to explore these technologies and build an avenue for growth."

About WESTEC

For nearly 50 years, WESTEC, produced by SME, has been the West Coast's premier manufacturing event, attracting a broad cross-section of industry decision-makers in Southern California. The event brings together thousands of attendees, exhibitors and industry experts to evaluate and compare cutting-edge manufacturing equipment, advanced technologies, new products and applications. The three-day event influences buying decisions and showcases growth industries, such as aerospace, defense, industrial machinery, medical and more.

About SME

SME connects all those who are passionate about making things that improve our world. As a nonprofit organization, SME has served practitioners, companies, educators, government and communities across the manufacturing spectrum for more than 80 years. Through its strategic areas of events, media, membership, training and development, and the SME Education Foundation, SME is uniquely dedicated to the advancement of manufacturing by addressing both knowledge and skills needed for the industry.