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A3 and 3M Co-Present Robotic Grinding and Finishing Conference This July

A3 and 3M Co-Present Robotic Grinding and Finishing Conference This July

June 5, 2025
Join manufacturers and automation experts in Minneapolis for live demos, expert insights, and exclusive access to 3M's headquarters.

The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) and 3M will co-present the Robotic Grinding and Finishing Conference, taking place July 22–23 at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis.

This two-day event is designed for manufacturers, integrators, and automation professionals seeking the latest in material removal automation. Attendees will gain access to technical sessions, live robotic demonstrations, and peer networking opportunities focused on next-generation grinding and finishing technologies.

"Robotic grinding and finishing applications are rapidly gaining traction across manufacturing today," said Jeff Burnstein, president of A3. "By partnering with industry leaders such as FerRobotics, FANUC America, and others—and featuring a keynote by Mike Kesti of 3M—this year’s program will deliver actionable insights and peer connections manufacturers can apply immediately. We're excited to lead the next wave of robotic material-removal innovation."

Featured Sessions:

  • Keynote: Evolving R&D at 3M by Leveraging Digital
       - Mike Kesti, Senior Vice President, 3M Corporate Research Laboratory
  • CobotandGo – Latest Trends and Tech Advancements Making Cobots Even More Accessible Than Ever
        - Jerry Perez, Manager, FANUC America
  • May The Force Control Be With You
        - Michael Haas, Vice President America, FerRobotics
  • Active Compliance for Precision Robotic Grinding: A Modular Solution for High-Mix Manufacturing
        - Simone Bianchi, Head of Solution Portfolio Management, Suhner Switzerland
  • The Next Frontier: Unlocking Robotic Material Removal for Small and Medium Manufacturers
        - Maximiliano Falcone, VP of Sales Engineering, PushCorp

Exclusive Experiences for Attendees:

  • 3M Center Tour: Go behind the scenes at 3M's global headquarters in St. Paul, featuring live robotic demos tackling real-world production challenges. Limited to the first 120 registrants.
  • 3M Open PGA Golf Tournament: Enjoy a complimentary hospitality tent pass for the opening round at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, MN. (Transportation not included.)

Registration and Sponsorship

Registration is now open: https://www.automate.org/events/robotic-grinding-and-finishing-conference

Tabletop booths and sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact the A3 sales team at [email protected] to learn more.