Overview
The Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE) will host the first All-Island Advanced & Sustainable Manufacturing Networking and Expo Event in Dundalk on 5th November 2026, in collaboration with Invest NI, Belfast Met, SRC, Newry Chamber of Commerce, Bormac, Dundalk Chamber of Commerce, DBEC, North-East Regional Skills Forum and DKIT.
This event will convene manufacturing SMEs, industry leaders, researchers, training experts and policymakers from across the Island of Ireland to accelerate cross-border collaboration in advanced and sustainable manufacturing.
The event will explore the Technologies Transforming Manufacturing including:
- AI & Intelligent Operations
Discover how manufacturers are using AI, analytics and automation to improve decision-making, quality and operational performance.
- Industrial Connectivity & Data
Learn how to connect systems, machines and data sources to create intelligent, connected operations.
- Smart Factories & Automation
Explore the technologies enabling increased productivity, efficiency and flexibility.
- Secure Digital Adoption
Understand how to scale transformation programmes while managing risk, cyber security and governance.
- Real Manufacturing Case Studies
Hear directly from organisations delivering measurable results through digital innovation.
- Sustainability
Learn how advanced manufacturing helps sustainability by producing more with less material, energy, waste and emissions -while also enabling technologies needs
Why Attend?
You can Transform Your ADVANCED & SUSTAINABLE Manufacturing Approach By:
- Seeing how the future of advanced and sustainable manufacturing and related training programmes are being strengthened on the Island of Ireland
- Speaking directly with equipment vendors and browse exhibitions.
- Been part of the discussion. Have your say on the latest challenges facing the robotics and automation industry on the Island of Ireland
- Networking with like-minded industry peers, researchers, trainers, start-up founders and future workforce participants
- Meeting potential collaborators and integrators from the advanced manufacturing and sustainable sector on the Island of Ireland.
- Exploring training offerings for your current and future workforce.
- Meeting students displaying their 3D Designed Products on the All-Ireland Advanced Manufacturing Pathways Schools Programme
- Seeing live demonstrations highlighting’ digital factory, integrated design and engineering, additive manufacturing, AR/VR, robotics and digital manufacturing.
- Listening to expert keynote speakers from key stakeholders and industry, as well as leading digital leaders, innovators, trainers and start-ups.
- Touring AMTCE’s cutting-edge facilities and engage directly with, trainers and facility management and staff.
Agenda
08.00 – 09.00am: Registration & Networking
Tea and coffee with the opportunity for cross-border networking and explore equipment demonstrations.
09.00am – 09.45am: Welcome Address LMETB Chief Executive and Government Ministers
Hear from Government Ministers and LMETB staff on how advanced manufacturing is shaping the island.
09.45am – 11.00am: Challenges and Opportunities of Advanced & Sustainable Manufacturing
Industry leaders present case studies highlighting the Challenges and Opportunities of Advanced and Sustainable Manufacturing Technologies, Processes & Practices on the Island of Ireland.
11.00am – 11.15am: Coffee Break
Coffee break with an opportunity for cross-border networking.
11.15am – 12.00am: AI in Advanced and Sustainable Manufacturing
This panel discussion will consider the emerging opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence in advanced and sustainable manufacturing.
12.00pm – 12.30pm: Cross-Border Developments and Industry Case Studies
This session will highlight cross-border developments, collaborative initiatives and industry case studies supporting innovation in advanced and sustainable manufacturing.
12.30 – 1.15pm: Technology in Action: Live Demonstrations
The live demonstrations are at the heart of the event, giving delegates the opportunity to connect with solution providers, see emerging technologies in action and engage with training and industry experts. Six demonstrations will run concurrently during each session, with a changeover halfway through.
Delegates should select two demonstrations at registration.
Lunch & Optional Facility Tours
An optional tour of the facilities at the Advanced Manufacturing Training Center of Excellence (AMTCE) or the 3D Construction facilities in Drogheda. The tour of the AMTCE includes a closer look at the training facilities available to learners including; Robotics and Automation Cells, Smart Factory Technologies, Robotic Welding, Training Rig and Virtual & Robotic Welding. The tour in Drogheda includes a look at the 3D printed houses and a tour of the LMETB 3D Construction Training facility.
