What is METALfab All About?

METALfab is the annual conference and trade show specifically for the ornamental and miscellaneous metals industry. It’s designed to bring together all aspects of this specialized field, including:

• Ornamental Ironwork: Think beautiful custom gates, fences, railings, spiral staircases, and decorative metal art that add a touch of elegance to homes and commercial buildings.
• Miscellaneous Metals: This covers a wide range of fabricated metal products that aren’t part of a building’s primary structure, such as access ladders, mezzanines, handrails, bollards, and more.
• Fabrication Techniques: Learning about and seeing demonstrations of various metalworking processes like welding (MIG, TIG, Stick), forging, bending, cutting (plasma, laser, waterjet), grinding, and finishing.
• Machinery & Tools: Showcasing the latest equipment, from welding machines and ironworkers to CNC plasma tables, presses, and specialized hand tools that make intricate work easier and more precise.
• Materials & Finishes: Discovering new types of metals (steel, aluminum, bronze, stainless steel), coatings, paints, and patinas that offer durability and aesthetic appeal.
• Business Practices: Education on how to run a successful fabrication shop, including topics like estimating, project management, marketing, safety, and employee training.
• Architectural Metalwork: Discussions and exhibits on how metal is used in architectural designs, from decorative elements to functional components.

It’s a blend of hands-on demonstrations, educational sessions, and a lively exhibit hall, all focused on the unique needs and challenges of metal fabricators. You’ll find solutions for everyday shop problems and inspiration for your next big project.

Your Metalworking Mecca: Where and When It’s Happening

Get ready to experience the world of metal fabrication in Music City!

• Venue: Music City Center
• Address: 201 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
• Dates:
  • Convention: January 23rd to January 26th, 2024 (Tuesday – Friday)
  • Exhibits: January 24th to January 26th, 2024 (Wednesday – Friday)

Important Note: It seems the most recent METALfab in Nashville took place in January 2024. For 2025, METALfab is scheduled for Salt Lake City, Utah, from February 24th to February 27th. Then, in 2026, it moves to Indianapolis, Indiana, from February 2nd to February 5th. Since your request specifically mentioned Nashville, I’m providing details for the most recent Nashville event, as that information is readily available. However, for future planning, please be aware that the location rotates.

The Music City Center in Nashville is a state-of-the-art convention center located right in the vibrant downtown area. Its modern facilities are perfect for hosting a dynamic show like METALfab, with ample space for large machinery demonstrations and comfortable rooms for educational sessions. Being in Nashville adds a fantastic bonus: once your busy show day is done, you’re steps away from legendary live music venues, incredible dining, and a unique cultural experience that only Nashville can offer. It makes for a truly memorable business trip!

What Does It Cost to Forge New Connections?

Attending METALfab is an investment in your craft and your business, providing value through education, networking, and direct access to suppliers. The cost varies based on your membership status with NOMMA (National Ornamental & Miscellaneous Metals Association) and what type of access you need.

Based on past METALfab events, here’s a general idea of what you might expect for pricing:

• Full Convention Pass (includes all educational sessions, exhibit hall access, and some networking events):
  • NOMMA Members: Typically offered at a significantly reduced rate, often in the range of $500 – $700+ USD for early registration.
  • Non-Members: A higher rate, often in the range of $700 – $1000+ USD for early registration. Becoming a NOMMA member often pays for itself in registration savings alone if you plan to attend.
• Exhibit Hall Only Pass: If you only want to walk the show floor and see the products, there might be a lower-cost option.
  • Price: This could range from $50 – $100 USD, or sometimes even complimentary if you register very early online.
• Individual Events/Workshops: Some specialized workshops, tours, or evening social events might have separate fees.

Important Note: Registration fees usually include access to a certain number of booth personnel badges for exhibitors. For attendees, early registration deadlines are key to getting the best prices. Always check the official NOMMA/METALfab website for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information for the specific year you plan to attend.

Finding Your Nashville Nest: Nearby Stays

Nashville offers a huge variety of hotels, from luxurious resorts to more budget-friendly options, especially in the downtown core near the Music City Center.

• Right by the Music City Center: Staying immediately next to the convention center offers the ultimate convenience. You can literally walk out of your hotel and be at the show in minutes. Look for well-known brands like:
  • Omni Nashville Hotel: Directly connected to the Music City Center.
  • Hilton Nashville Downtown: Very close and a popular choice for convention attendees.
  • Hyatt Centric Downtown Nashville
• Downtown Nashville: The wider downtown area offers countless hotels, all within a short walk or quick ride-share to the Music City Center. This puts you in the heart of Nashville’s famous honky-tonks, restaurants, and attractions. Options include:
  • JW Marriott Nashville
  • Renaissance Nashville Hotel
  • Dream Nashville
• The Gulch/Midtown: These neighborhoods are just a short drive from downtown and offer a more upscale, trendy vibe with great dining and shopping, along with a good selection of hotels.
• Opryland Area: If you prefer to stay near the Grand Ole Opry and Opry Mills Mall, the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is a massive, self-contained resort, but it’s a bit further from the Music City Center (about a 15-20 minute drive). There are many other hotels around the Opryland area that might offer different price points, but you’ll need to factor in transportation to the show daily.

Booking Advice: Nashville is a hugely popular destination, so hotels can fill up quickly, especially during major events. It’s highly recommended to book your accommodation many months in advance. The official METALfab website or the NOMMA website usually provides information on negotiated hotel blocks and discounted rates for attendees, which are often the best way to secure a room.

The Sparking Benefits of Attending METALfab: Ignite Your Craft!

Attending METALfab is a truly enriching experience that offers a wealth of benefits for anyone in the ornamental and miscellaneous metals industry. It’s designed to help you grow, learn, and succeed.

• See It, Touch It, Learn It (Live Demos!):
  • Hands-On Experience: Unlike just looking at pictures, you’ll see actual metalworking machines running live on the show floor. Watch skilled operators demonstrate welding, bending, cutting, and forging techniques. This hands-on exposure is invaluable for understanding capabilities and efficiencies.
  • Explore New Technology: Discover the latest advancements in fabrication machinery, software, and tools. See how new innovations can streamline your production, improve quality, and expand your capabilities.
  • Direct from the Experts: Talk directly to the manufacturers, distributors, and technical experts. Get your specific questions answered, troubleshoot problems, and learn tips and tricks that can save you time and money.
• Deepen Your Knowledge & Skills (Education):
  • Tailored Sessions: Attend a variety of educational sessions and workshops specifically designed for ornamental and miscellaneous metal fabricators. Topics often include advanced welding techniques, project management, estimating, design, safety, and business growth strategies.
  • Industry Insights: Hear from seasoned professionals and thought leaders about current trends, challenges, and future opportunities in the industry.
  • Practical Takeaways: Gain actionable advice and new skills that you can immediately apply back in your shop to improve efficiency and profitability.
• Expand Your Professional Network:
  • Connect with Peers: Mingle with hundreds of other fabricators, shop owners, designers, and suppliers from across North America. Share stories, discuss common challenges, and learn from each other’s successes. This peer-to-peer connection is incredibly valuable.
  • Forge New Partnerships: Discover potential new suppliers for materials, equipment, or specialized services. You might even find collaborators for future projects or customers for your own work.
  • NOMMA Community: This event is the heart of the NOMMA community, offering a unique chance to strengthen existing relationships and build new ones within this tight-knit industry.
• Solve Your Shop Challenges:
  • If you’re facing a specific hurdle in your fabrication process, looking for a particular type of machinery, or trying to improve your business operations, METALfab provides a concentrated environment to find solutions. You can compare different products and approaches all in one place.
• Stay Competitive & Inspired:
  • In a rapidly evolving industry, staying updated on new tools, techniques, and business strategies is crucial. Attending METALfab ensures you remain competitive, efficient, and inspired by the incredible work being done in metal fabrication.

In essence, METALfab is an indispensable event for anyone passionate about metalworking. It’s where artistry meets industry, where you can refine your skills, discover new innovations, and connect with a vibrant community dedicated to the craft. Don’t miss this opportunity to heat up your career and your business!

To learn more and register for METALfab, visit the official website: nomma.org/page/metalfab