The AWFS®Fair announced that woodworkers who’ve had to tighten up their tool belts in the last few months can get a host of free programs to help improve their businesses at the AWFS®Fair, Wednesday, July 15 – Saturday, July 18 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The comprehensive show will feature nearly 600 exhibitors, a variety of speakers, panels and discussions to educate and entertain attendees, including:
smartSHOP: an A-to-Z demonstration of the new tools that can automate a small cabinet shop. As we move into the future, part of keeping the skilled trades alive will be predicated on knowing how to integrate with contemporary trends and technology. The Animal Foundation, a local Las Vegas non-profit animal shelter, and some of their pooches will be on hand Thursday, July 16, 3 p.m. to receive the cabinets made on-site. FREE
Green Desk: An “Ask the Expert” feature center where attendees can drop by to ask questions related to sustainable practices, certifications and regulations affecting the industry. The Green Desk, which will be prominently located at the show, will be hosted by nationally recognized environmental organizations as well as industry associations with sustainable programs. FREE
Industry Briefing! California Air Resources Board (CARB): Representatives from CARB and the industry will deliver updates and take audience questions. This briefing will also announce the new North American Architectural Woodwork Standards and Woodwork Manufacturing Skills Standards. FREE
AWFS®Fair also offers lots of additional interesting activities:
Fresh Wood, Student Design Competition: Students from high and post-secondary schools enter original woodworking projects in this national competition. Past competitors have careers in boat restoration, furniture production and design, musical instrument making, vocational education and designing of consumer goods. FREE
Belt Sander National Championship: Witness 120V of mechanical fury in a race to the finish line. The AWFS®Fair will host these national championship races on Thursday, July 16, 4:30p.m. Modified belt sanders can reach speeds over 17mph. FREE
For those looking for industry education, AWFS®Fair will offer:
College of Woodworking Knowledge Education Program (CWWK): Eight educational tracks and 50 sessions covering Business Management, Going Green, Cabinet and Millwork, Software and Technology, Techniques and Applications, Handcrafted Furniture, Safety and Environment and a Teacher Track. These seminars require a pass.
For more information AWFS®Fair, visit: www.awfsfair.org