Catalyst Connection was proud to serve as an organizing sponsor of the 2025 Advanced Manufacturing Expo hosted by the Pittsburgh Chapter of NTMA. Held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Pittsburgh–Cranberry, the Expo brought together over 400 attendees representing small to mid-sized manufacturers, engineering professionals, educators, and technology providers from across Southwestern Pennsylvania. The event provided an accessible, no-cost opportunity for manufacturers to explore the latest in automation, robotics, sensors, software, CNC machining, and 3D printing—without the travel or expense of a national tradeshow. This event received support from the Catalyst Connection led SMART-PA program, leveraging funding from the Department of Energy and the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
Throughout the day, Catalyst Connection staff engaged directly with attendees at our booth, sharing insights on lean transformation, workforce development strategies, and grant-funded technology implementation. We highlighted real-world success stories from regional manufacturers and discussed how our services support operational efficiency, digital adoption, and employee upskilling. The Expo also created valuable space for networking, allowing us to connect with companies facing common challenges and explore ways Catalyst can offer tailored support.
One of the key themes throughout the event was collaboration—both in knowledge sharing and in building a stronger, more connected regional manufacturing ecosystem. Educational sessions, including insights from Toyota’s West Virginia operations team, emphasized the importance of continuous improvement, practical problem-solving, and investing in people and processes. As noted by Catalyst’s Matt Minner during an interview at the event, many of the organizations in attendance are “solving problems for manufacturers every day,” reinforcing our mission to serve as a trusted resource and connector in this space.
From a technology perspective, there as a notable increase the AI focused content, particularly with the breakout speakers. There were three well-attended sessions from Delta Bravo AI, Fishgrund Consulting, and Korra AI, all around demystifying AI in manufacturing and practical recommendations for manufacturers on how to get started down the path of deploying AI in their businesses. This led to another well attended event, the Lean Guide to AI in Manufacturing workshop, held at Mill 19 on April 10.
Overall, the Expo was a powerful reminder of the innovation, talent, and potential that exist right here in Southwestern PA. Catalyst Connection looks forward to continuing the momentum by following up with manufacturers we met, offering new learning opportunities through SkillMill19 and our peer networks, and championing advanced manufacturing growth throughout the region.
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Check our some photos from the 2025 Expo: