Overview of the AMUG Conference & Expo
The Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) Conference & Expo is one of the most prominent and specialized events globally for the additive manufacturing (AM) and 3D printing industry. Hosted annually in Chicago, USA, this event gathers engineers, designers, researchers, manufacturers, educators, and AM professionals from across the globe. It is not just a trade show but a collaborative space to exchange expertise, innovations, case studies, and insights on additive manufacturing technologies.

Founded with the intent to advance the uses and applications of additive manufacturing, the AMUG Conference provides a unique platform for users to interact directly with the experts, manufacturers, and other users in the industry.

Event venue and location
The AMUG Conference & Expo is held at the Hilton Chicago, a renowned venue that offers expansive event spaces, excellent facilities, and proximity to the city’s top attractions. This historic downtown hotel provides an ideal setting for business meetings, conferences, and exhibitions of this scale. Located at 720 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60605, Hilton Chicago is easily accessible from both Midway and O’Hare International Airports.

Dates and timing
The AMUG 2025 Conference is scheduled to take place from March 30 to April 3, 2025. The event spans over five days, starting with a welcome reception and continuing with technical sessions, hands-on workshops, keynote speeches, panel discussions, an expansive exhibition area, and evening networking events. Typical event timings run from early morning sessions starting at 8:00 AM until late evening networking or dinner programs ending by 9:00 PM.

Product categories and exhibition highlights
The AMUG Conference & Expo features a wide array of product categories, covering the entire ecosystem of additive manufacturing:

• 3D Printers (Industrial and Desktop)
• Software for 3D Printing (Design, Simulation, Slicing, etc.)
• Materials (Polymers, Metals, Ceramics, Composites)
• Post-processing and Finishing Equipment
• Scanners, Sensors, and Metrology Tools
• AM Solutions for Aerospace, Automotive, Healthcare, and Defense
• Education and Research Tools
• Prototyping and Production Services
• Safety, Quality Control, and Certification Solutions

The AMUGexpo, which takes place during the first two days of the event, brings together leading companies such as Stratasys, EOS, HP, GE Additive, 3D Systems, Renishaw, and Formlabs, among others. It provides direct access to product demonstrations and technical staff, offering practical insights into real-world applications.

Visitor and attendee profile
The AMUG Conference & Expo attracts over 2,000 industry professionals from more than 30 countries. Attendees include:

• Engineers and Designers
• Additive Manufacturing Technicians
• Researchers and Academics
• Product Development Experts
• Executives and Procurement Officers
• Healthcare and Biomedical Professionals
• Aerospace and Automotive Technologists
• Industrial Application Developers

What sets AMUG apart is its user-driven approach, meaning most attendees are not just vendors or spectators—they are practitioners and adopters of AM technologies looking to share knowledge and deepen their expertise.

Benefits of attending the AMUG Conference
Attending the Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) Conference & Expo offers multiple advantages:

• Direct user-to-user interaction: Unlike typical expos, AMUG fosters open dialogue between users for sharing successes, failures, and lessons learned.
• Hands-on workshops: In-depth training sessions allow attendees to experience new materials, tools, and workflows.
• Expert-led technical sessions: Presentations and panels delve deep into the science and strategy behind additive manufacturing.
• Networking opportunities: Evening dinners, receptions, and informal gatherings make it easier to connect with industry leaders and peers.
• Access to the latest innovations: Discover what’s next in 3D printing technologies and stay ahead of the curve.
• Cross-industry learning: AMUG serves as a convergence point for professionals from aerospace, automotive, medical, dental, defense, and energy sectors.

Cost and registration details
The AMUG Conference fee typically includes access to all sessions, workshops, meals, evening activities, and the AMUGexpo. In 2025, the expected registration cost for members is approximately $1,495 USD, while non-members pay slightly more. Early bird discounts are usually offered if registration is completed in advance.

Registration covers everything except travel and accommodation. Due to the event’s popularity and limited capacity, early booking is strongly recommended.

Nearby hotels and accommodations
Staying close to the venue enhances the experience, allowing for easier participation in networking events. The Hilton Chicago is the main event hotel, but several other premium and budget options are within walking distance:

• Palmer House Hilton – Located just 0.5 miles away, this historic hotel offers classic luxury.
• Hyatt Regency McCormick Place – Convenient for those who prefer proximity to the lakefront and convention district.
• Hotel Blake – A boutique option with spacious rooms and a quieter environment.
• Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Chicago-Downtown – Affordable comfort for travelers looking for practicality.
• The Blackstone Hotel – A Marriott property known for artful design and views of Grant Park.

Booking early is advised as accommodations near the venue fill up fast during conference week.

Who should attend the AMUG Conference
The AMUG Conference & Expo is designed for both novice users and seasoned professionals. Whether you’re a researcher aiming to publish findings, a company interested in production-scale AM, or a startup exploring entry into additive manufacturing, AMUG provides tailored content for every stage of the journey.

Unique aspects of the AMUG experience

• The AMUG Conference is run by users for users. This community-oriented approach ensures sessions are practical, unbiased, and user-tested.
• The Technical Competition allows participants to showcase their most advanced projects for peer review.
• The AMUG DINO Awards recognize individuals who have significantly contributed to the AMUG community and the advancement of additive manufacturing.

Travel and accessibility information
Chicago is a well-connected global city, served by O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). The city offers ample public transportation via the CTA train and bus system, including direct train access from both airports to downtown. Taxis, ride-share services, and bike rentals are also widely available.

Food, dining, and local attractions
The Hilton Chicago and its surrounding area offer plenty of food options from fine dining to casual bites. While attending AMUG, visitors can also explore:

• Grant Park and Millennium Park
• Art Institute of Chicago
• Museum Campus
• Navy Pier
• The Magnificent Mile for shopping and sightseeing

Final thoughts
The Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) Conference & Expo, Chicago, USA is not just an event—it is a vital learning hub for the AM community. It provides unmatched opportunities to dive deep into the technical, operational, and strategic aspects of additive manufacturing while building long-lasting professional connections.

Whether you are looking to explore new business models, evaluate AM equipment, or simply keep pace with a fast-evolving technology, AMUG is the must-attend event of the year.

Where to register and learn more
To register and get the most up-to-date information about the event, please visit the official AMUG website:
https://www.amug.com