With a recovering economy and new energy boosted by an explosion of new technology, the time is ripe for a new event, and have we got the event for you. The Wood Pro Expo set for Baltimore October 9-10 offers a great opportunity for those in the Mid-Atlantic area who have been reluctant to travel to Atlanta or Las Vegas for big industry events during the recession. Now the show comes to you.

Plans for the show include a wide representation of industry suppliers showing off the latest technology to help woodworking businesses take advantage of the rising economy with maximum productivity. But we all know that having the right tools doesn’t help if you don’t know how to use them. That’s why this show is really focused on educational events.

Paul Akers, author of the book “Two Second Lean” and founder of the innovative manufacturing company FastCap, will be the keynote speaker for the Expo. There will also be a panel discussion on real-life lean lessons coordinated by lean expert Jim Lewis.

Jamison Scott of Air Handling Systems will talk about issues related to combustible dust. Jens Schulz of Leuco Tools is on tap to talk about advances in tooling. Gene Wengert will be on hand to answer your questions about wood properties and handling. And I’ll take the stage to delve into the ticklish issue of pricing in the recovery after so many years of tough downward pressure on prices. I’ll also be discussing the results of our annual pricing survey, which will have just come out then. Education sessions from from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday and 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday.

That’s a lot to offer, but we also know that just another trade show is not going to draw people out of their shops, so we’re trying a few new tricks. One new feature is a barbecue dinner catered by the renowned Hightopps Backstage Grille right on the show floor from 5 to 7 p.m. on the first day of the show. Get some great barbecue and taste of what the show offers, so you’ll want to come back for more the next day. Or use the barbecue to wind down and network with peers after a productive day at the show.

Make your plans now, and I hope to see you there!