ASME will sponsor 29 sessions, including two sessions exploring the future of manufacturing in the United States, at the 16th National Manufacturing Week next month in Rosemont, Ill.

The Society also will hold two training workshops covering sections of Engineering Management Certification International (EMCI), a new continuing education program of ASME, and sponsor a pavilion complete with materials and information on the varied technical offerings of the organization.

National Manufacturing Week, including four shows and an exhibit of products and services, will run March 20-23, 2006, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. The ASME activities will be in conjunction with the Design Engineering Show.

The sessions, "Manufacturing: The Future" and "Fast Forward: A Look at the Future of Technology and Engineering," will be held March 21. Speakers in the two sessions will provide expert analysis and commentary on the future of engineering in the United States, and present strategies for innovation and growth in the global marketplace.

Other ASME sessions in the Design Engineering Show will cover lean manufacturing, micro-electro-mechanical systems, nanotechnology, computer tools, and composites in manufacturing, among other topics.

The training workshops will take place March 20-21 and cover the core components of EMCI, including performance-based management, coaching, and cross-functional teamwork. A new ASME continuing education program, EMCI features public and online courses as well as a professional credential recognized worldwide.

The ASME role in National Manufacturing Week reflects the Society’s outreach to engineers in industry and the organization’s support of innovation and productivity in manufacturing.

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers is a not-for-profit professional organization promoting the art, science and practice of mechanical and multidisciplinary engineering and allied sciences. ASME develops codes and standards that enhance public safety, and provides lifelong learning and technical exchange opportunities benefiting the engineering and technology community.