Welcome to the 2027 RAPID + TCT Conference Call for Speakers

This is your opportunity to join over 200 experts in presenting almost 100 hours of learning at the RAPID + TCT Conference: four transformative days of expert-led additive manufacturing education, practical insights, and networking that elevate the design-to-production workflow. The event takes place April 12-15, 2027 in Detroit, MI.

SME, TCT, and the AeroDef Conference Advisors are seeking dynamic and engaging speakers with world class insights to share in the following areas:

• Aerospace
• Defense
• Transportation
• Healthcare
• Energy
• Consumer Products

RAPID + TCT - The Aerospace & Defense tracks are curated by the AeroDef Strategic Advisory Council and focus on additive manufacturing applications and the optimization of supporting enabling technologies within the aerospace and Defense industries. Topics include AI, automation, advanced materials, digital manufacturing, qualification and inspection.

Essential AM – Now firmly established after its introduction in 2026, Essential AM shines the spotlight on everything that turns an AM investment into a working, repeatable and profitable capability. The critical support elements and considerations that facilitate a successful deployment of AM. Tracks include:

• Economics
• Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM)
• Post Processing
• Qualification and Certification
• 3D Scanning and Metrology
• AI in AM
• Standards

Research & Development – In this part of the conference we focus on new and novel processes and materials. We also want to hear about significant developments to existing processes and materials. In short, this is where our delegates come to learn what the future looks like, and we’d like you to showcase your research in two tracks, namely:

• Materials Development
• Process Development

Submission Process:

Submissions are via our online submission site and must be completed no later than November 4, 2026. You must provide the following:

• Submission Title
• Abstract (max 300 words)
• Learning Objectives (min 2)
• Promotional Abstract (max 75 words)
• Presenter’s Name, Contact Info, Position/Title, Company, Biography (max 175 words)
• Hi-Res Headshot (min 1 MB, 300 dpi, .jpg format)
• Company Logo

Commercial and sales submissions will immediately be disqualified. As in 2026, the presentation format is 30 minutes. Time for questions should be built into the 30 minutes if you wish to take questions from the audience.

To submit, modify, or add a submission, log in with your email and password below. Confirmation emails will be sent upon receipt; check your spam/junk folders if not received.

Abstract Review Process:

Submissions are reviewed and vetted by the RAPID + TCT Event Advisor panel, which is made up of respected technical experts representing the manufacturing industry, academic institutions, and government agencies. Their decision to accept or decline is final.

Abstract Review Criteria:

• Originality: Novelty, innovative applications, cutting-edge research. Content should be unique.
• Impartiality: Submissions must be non-commercial.
• Objectives: Clarity of the presentation's goals.
• Audience: Relevance and interest.
• Technical Information: Depth and detail.
• Evidence & Credibility: Grounded in fact with supporting evidence.

Please ensure your abstract addresses all six of these areas, competition for acceptance is fierce!

As an approved speaker at RAPID + TCT you can establish yourself as a thought leader in the industry and secure a complimentary conference pass worth $1,500 that enables you to network and collaborate with thousands of like-minded professionals.

Thank you for your interest in sharing your expertise and knowledge.