RAPID +TCT 2027
Event Date
April 12–15, 2027
Location
Detroit, MI
Expected Exhibitors
450
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryRAPID + TCT is North America's largest additive manufacturing and industrial 3D printing event, produced by SME. The event combines an expansive exhibit floor with an internationally respected technical conference, bringing the entire additive manufacturing (AM) community together under one roof. Attendees explore hands-on technology exhibits, discover real-world applications, and learn directly from the industry's most respected experts across the full AM ecosystem — design, materials, hardware, software, post-processing, and quality.
The audience spans the whole industry, from corporate executives and design engineers to software developers, researchers, and investors. Conference content is focused on high-value verticals including healthcare, aerospace, defense, energy, and consumer goods, making the show relevant to anyone evaluating, adopting, or optimizing AM solutions.
RAPID + TCT is widely regarded as the industry's launch pad for new products, innovations, and leading-edge research, with more new products debuting here than at any other North American AM event. Combined with daily keynote panels and extensive networking, it is a can't-miss annual gathering for professionals who want to stay informed on the technologies shaping the future of manufacturing.
Show Highlights
Signature features of RAPID + TCT include:
- Keynote Series: Executive Perspectives — morning panel discussions where industry leaders examine current trends, industry evolution, and the biggest opportunities and challenges for the future of AM.
- Hands-on Exhibits — a show floor featuring 450+ solutions providers and more than 30 of the top equipment builders and OEMs, described as more than four football fields in length.
- Technical Conference — 160+ technical presentations delivered by hand-selected, industry-leading experts.
- Expo Showcases — curated zones connecting attendees with suppliers in areas such as aerospace and defense, healthcare applications, disruptive startups, and local AM service providers.
- SME Theater — leaders discussing emerging trends including regenerative medicine, sustainability, bioprinting, regulations, and the digital thread.
- AM Community Networking Events — open to all attendees, with the badge serving as the ticket.
- SME AM Awards and TCT Awards — celebrating achievement and recognition in additive manufacturing.
Attendance
According to the organizer, the conference draws more than 1,000 conference delegates from 35+ countries, with 200+ speakers presenting. The event floor showcases technology from 450+ solutions providers and more than 30 of the top equipment builders and OEMs. The audience represents the entire additive manufacturing industry, from corporate executives and design engineers to software developers, investors, and researchers.
Registration
Registration for RAPID + TCT is handled through the official event website (rapid3devent.com), which offers both exhibit-focused passes and full conference passes. Networking events are open to all attendees, with your badge serving as your ticket. SME also offers a Total Satisfaction Guarantee on the conference. Prospective attendees should check the official site for the latest pass types, pricing, and deadlines for the 2027 edition.
History
RAPID + TCT is produced by SME and reflects more than 30 years of additive manufacturing innovation, positioning it as North America's most credible, comprehensive, and influential AM event. The show travels to different North American host cities each year as part of its regional tour; recent editions include Los Angeles (2024), Detroit (2025), and a Boston debut held April 13–16, 2026, at the Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center. The 2027 edition returns to Detroit at Huntington Place.
Exhibitors
Exhibitor Information
Detailed exhibitor list is being compiled. Check back soon or visit the official show website for the most current information.
Last updated: September 13, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is RAPID + TCT 2027?
RAPID + TCT 2027 takes place at Huntington Place in Detroit, Michigan. The conference runs April 12–15, 2027, with exhibits open April 13–15, 2027.
What is RAPID + TCT and who should attend?
RAPID + TCT is North America's largest additive manufacturing and industrial 3D printing event, produced by SME. It is designed for the entire AM community, from corporate executives and design engineers to software developers, researchers, and investors evaluating, adopting, or optimizing additive manufacturing.
What can I expect at the event?
Attendees can explore a large hands-on exhibit floor with 450+ solutions providers, attend 160+ technical conference presentations, hear daily Executive Perspectives keynote panels, visit curated Expo Showcases, and take part in industry networking events.
How do I get to Huntington Place from the airport?
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is about a 25-minute drive from downtown Detroit. Options include the DAX Airport Express coach, the FAST Michigan Route 261 bus for a $2 fare, or rideshare and taxi services.
Is there parking at the venue?
Yes, on-site parking is available in the Huntington Place garages, which accept card payments only and do not take cash. Nearby downtown garages, lots, and options like Wayne State Lot 12 with a QLINE streetcar connection can be more economical.
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