TheInternational Manufacturing Technology Show 2010 signal a strong comeback in manufacturing. Total registration for the six-day event, which ran from Sept. 13-18 at McCormick Place in Chicago, was 82,411. IMTS covered 1.1 million square feet of exhibit space with 1,728 companies exhibiting in 1,180 booths.

“We are ecstatic that IMTS 2010 met and, in many cases, exceeded our exhibitors’ and visitors’ expectations,” IMTS Vice President of Exhibitions and Communications Peter Eelman said in a statement. “Manufacturing professionals were searching for confirmation that manufacturing in the United States is not dying or dead and, in fact, found that it is robust, poised for growth, and clearly understand that investing in the latest technology is the key to being competitive.”

“Sold” signs on machines could be seen throughout the show. Clearfield, Utah-based ATK Aerospace Systems made a major investment in two automated fiber placement systems, which will be used to produce wings and nacelles for the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter.

Along with the healthy traffic on the show floor, other highlights for attendees and exhibitors included the Emerging Technology Center, the Advanced Manufacturing Center, the re-invented Industry & Technology Conference, a Manufacturing Museum, and the National Institute for Metalworking Skills Student Summit.