Winter Innovation: AMC Expo and Trade Show 2024 Brings Industry Together in Etobicoke

For the first time, the AMC Expo and Trade Show made a seasonal shift, moving from spring to a late fall gathering on November 6–7, 2024. Held in Etobicoke, Ontario, this year’s event brought together members, students, and industry leaders to explore the evolving future of agricultural manufacturing. With a strong focus on innovation, education, and collaboration, the two-day event showcased how rapidly advancing technology, robotics, and AI are shaping the  industry – and how post-secondary institutions are rising to meet that challenge

This year’s Expo took place at the Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation at Humber Polytechnic –  an AMC Academic Partner. The state-of-the-art facility provided a fitting backdrop for a program that celebrated learning, future-forward thinking, and hands-on engagement. From technical sessions to student competitions, tours, and networking events, attendees were immersed in the possibilities of what lies ahead.

A Hub of Innovation and Insight 

The Expo kicked off with sessions on data and digital transformation. Danielle L. Graff, Partner at MLT Aikins LLP, closed out AMC’s Momentum Meeting series with a presentation on data navigation and security—an increasingly urgent topic in today’s connected world. Scott Cedarquist, Director of Standards and Technical Activities at ASABE, followed with a deep dive into the importance of data-driven standards in building a sustainable future for  ag manufacturing.

The theme of innovation carried through into discussions about automation and industry transformation. Dr. Roseann O’Reilly Runte, author and Past President and CEO of the Canada Foundation for Innovation, brought big-picture thinking to the table, while Dr. Nancy Nelson, FEC, P.Eng., shared practical insights on the implementation of automation in educational and industrial settings.

Dr. Dave Smiderle, Associate Dean at Humber Polytechnic, offered both a presentation on harnessing automation and a guided tour of the Barrett Centre, giving attendees a behind-the-scenes look at how the next generation of  talent is being equipped to lead in a high-tech world.

The event concluded with a powerful keynote address from Matthew Johnson, Vice-President of Volatus Aerospace, who spoke on the growing role of spray drones in agriculture. His presentation underscored how aerial technologies are not just futuristic concepts—they’re quickly becoming essential tools in modern farming.

AMC Hackathon: Real-World Challenges, Next-Gen Solutions

A standout component of the Expo was AMC’s 3rd Annual Hackathon, where student teams from Humber Polytechnic, and Saskatchewan Polytechnic were challenged to solve a real industry issue within just 27 hours. Working both in-person and virtually, the teams developed innovative solutions and pitched their ideas live to attendees, who served as judges. The top three teams were recognized and awarded through AMC’s Future Forward  Scholarship program, affirming the value of fresh ideas and student innovation in shaping the future of the sector.

Networking, Community,  and a Little Competition 

While learning and innovation took centre stage, community and connection were never far behind. The trade show floor buzzed with conversation as members showcased their products and services. On Wednesday evening, the focus shifted to fun at E-Zone, where attendees enjoyed whirly ball, laser tag, arcade games, and plenty of laughs over refreshments and appetizers. The night proved that the competitive spirit is alive and well—not just in the field or factory, but on the court and in the arcade too.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, AMC is excited to continue the momentum. Mark your calendars for FORGE: AMC’s Annual Expo and Trade Show, returning October 21–22, 2025, at the Holiday Inn & Suites in St. Catharines, Ontario. With innovation, leadership, and resilience at its core, next year’s event promises to once again bring the industry together in bold and meaningful ways.