Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1480758
52 SMT007 MAGAZINE I OCTOBER 2022 Time to Go 'Exploring' at SMTAI Students, young professionals, and industry newcomers will have a unique way to network with subject matter experts at SMTA Interna- tional 2022 in a fun and non-threatening way. "Passport to the World of SMT" is designed to assist "Explorers" in making connections with exhibitors during part of the annual trade show in Minneapolis. For exhibitors, "this is a great opportunity to establish your technology leadership, show- case your company's talent, and begin build- ing key relationships with tomorrow's decision makers," says Chrys Shea, Explorer program organizer. "Passport to the World of SMT" will run during the Expo on Wednesday and ursday. Explorers will be issued "passports" to guide them through a typical SMT process by iden- tifying Ambassador Exhibitors on the show floor. Ambassador booths will be marked by special flags and the Ambassadors identified by special badges. As Explorers wander the exhibit floor, they will meet the Ambassadors, discuss their technology, and ask questions. Passports are stamped by each Ambassador visited. At the event wrap-up on ursday, passports will be reviewed, and prizes awarded to the most active Explorers and their favorite Ambassa- dors. Participation is free to all Expo attendees, but participation as an Exhibitor Ambassa- dor requires a $250 sponsorship fee. Benefits include: • Demonstrate your area of expertise • Present the "go to" person(s) in your organization for technical questions • Build your CRM database • Differentiate yourself from your competitors • Get a head start on the future of the industry "We are very passionate about this program as the demographics of our industry indicate a real need for growing new networks and developing new expertise," Shea says. "We hope you agree, and this is why we are asking you to participate in this inaugural event to ensure its success this year and for many more to come." Sponsorship details can be found at smta.org.