todayOctober 22, 2025 location_on Greenville, SC access_time8:15 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Free for Students and Faculty! Join SME Membership for a full day of exploration, connection, and hands-on exposure to the future of manufacturing—at no cost to you.
The Bright Minds College Experience is your all-access pass to a day of inspiration, connection, and real-world insights into manufacturing. Hosted at the Manufacturing Technology Series SOUTHEAST event, this program is designed for college students and faculty who want to see what’s possible and take their next step toward a career in manufacturing. You’ll meet industry leaders, connect with peers from across the region, and get behind-the-scenes insights you cannot find in a classroom.
As part of the Bright Minds College Experience, you’ll join corporate and institutional members—attending their own Roundtable the same day—for a joint session, Stronger Together: Connecting Students, Educators & Industry for the Future of Manufacturing. This is your chance to sit alongside industry and academic leaders, gain firsthand insight into the future of manufacturing, explore new technologies, and share your perspective as a student in shaping a future-ready workforce.
Why Attend?
- Free for all students and faculty—no registration fee required.
- Get face-to-face time with executives, educators, and industry leaders.
- Discover career pathways you may not have considered, from technical roles to leadership and business.
- See emerging technologies that are transforming manufacturing.
- Build your professional network before graduation.
- Learn how SME membership can accelerate your career and expand your opportunities.
What You’ll Experience
- Welcome Coffee & Introductions
Kickstart the day with networking and self-introductions. Share your goals, challenges, and what you hope to gain from the program. - Java-Talk: An Informal Chat with a Manufacturing Executive
Hear from a top industry leader in an engaging, conversational format. Gain behind-the-scenes insight into leadership, innovation, and career growth in manufacturing—plus personal stories and practical advice. - SME for Students—By Students
Learn directly from student leaders how SME Membership can open doors to scholarships, internships, competitions, and career-building opportunities. Discover how to get involved on your campus or launch a new chapter. - Choose Your Own Adventure
Shape your day your way: - Attend the MT Series Southeast Keynote at the SME Theater (Speaker TBD)
- Explore the show floor and see cutting-edge technologies in action
- Network with other BMCE attendees and industry professionals
- Networking Lunch & Industry Exchange
Students, faculty, and corporate/institutional members come together for an informal lunch. Exchange ideas, hear fresh perspectives, and spark collaborations across education and industry. - Stronger Together: Connecting Students, Educators & Industry
Join students, educators, and industry leaders for a collaborative dialogue on the future of manufacturing careers. Explore how to align education with real-world demands, strengthen the education-to-career pipeline, and connect with tomorrow’s workforce today. - Break / Relocate
- Student Roundtable Discussions & Focus Groups
Your voice matters. Share your experiences and ideas in peer discussions that will help shape future student programs in manufacturing. Connect with students from other schools, exchange insights, and reflect on your academic and career journey. - Special Announcements & Closing Remarks
End the day with highlights, recognition, and announcements. Leave inspired and connected—with new contacts, career ideas, and opportunities to stay engaged with SME.
The show floor remains open until 5:00 p.m.—take advantage of this extra time to explore before heading home.
Reserve Your Spot Today
Space is limited for this one-day program. Register now for the Bright Minds College Experience in Greenville and gain exclusive access to this career-shaping experience—free for all students and faculty.
Contact chapters@sme.org with any questions.