If you are a reader of some of my favorite SolidWorks bloggers, such as Mike Puckett, Josh Mings and Ricky Jordan, you probably already know all about SolidWorks World. For those who don’t know, SolidWorks World is an international user conference and exposition that is held every year in a different city. In previous years SolidWorks World was held in San Diego, New Orleans and Las Vegas. SolidWorks World 2009 will be held in Orlando Florida from February 8-11, 2009. In addition to the many articles written by my fellow bloggers, you should also visit the official SolidWorks World 2009 website.

What is SolidWorks World?

Networking Opportunities

Like I mentioned, SolidWorks World is an international user conference and exposition. Probably the best part of SolidWorks World is the chance to meet other users who are just as passionate about SolidWorks as you are. It is the one place where you can proclaim “I am a SolidWorks Geek” without fear. Last year in San Diego, there were over 5,500 SolidWorks geeks meeting for the first time, sharing stories, making contacts and just having fun. In these economic times, having contacts in other companies can be extremely beneficial if the unfortunate happens.

Learning Opportunities

In addition to networking, SolidWorks World provides a unique opportunity to develop your SolidWorks usage skills. With over 150 sessions presented by industry leaders in CAD Administration, Data Management, Design Automation, Design Validation, Education, Modeling Essentials, Productivity Tools, Customer Success/Designing Better Products, Tips and Tricks and Design Communication; there is a wealth of knowledge that will be extremely beneficial to every level of SolidWorks user. In fact I am looking forward to attending the Backdoor Workarounds, Tips and Tricks, and various CAD administration and Data Management sessions.

Learn About New Products and Win!

At the partner pavilion at SolidWorks Works 2009, you can explore the numerous products offered by vendors in the following areas: Analysis/FEM/FEA Software, Component Design/Libraries, Computer Hardware Vendors, Data Translation Software, Design and Drafting Software, Die Design Software, Electrical and Electronics Design Software, ERP/MRP Software, Graphics Accelerators, Implementation/Training, Industrial Design Software, Input/Output Devices, Insp. Reverse Engineering Software, Knowledge Based Engineering, Manufacturing Network, Manufacturing/CAM Software, Mechanical Engineering Software, Optical Design Software, PDM/PLM Software, Processors and Operating Systems, Rapid Prototyping System Vendors, Robot Simulation Software, Sheet Metal Software, Tolerance Analysis Software, Utilities and Viewing, Rendering, and Collaboration.

While you are exploring the partner pavilion, you can get a game card that the various exhibitors will stamp when you visit with them. After collecting 16 stamps from different exhibitors you can win some prizes and all those who complete their game card will be entered into a drawing to receive a $1000 American Express® Gift Cheque. How cool is that? Even without the prizes, exploring the many products offered is fun. It is always my favorite part of any conference I attend.

Speakers

Every year at SolidWorks World there is always a buzz about the speakers. This year is no different. In addition to the keynote speeches by Jeff Ray, the CEO of Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks Corporation and Jon Hirschtick, the Co-Founder and Group Executive of Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks Corporation; this years guest speaker will be Sir Richard Branson, the Founder and President of the Virgin Group. If you are not familiar with Sir Richard Branson, check out his Wikipedia entry. I am personally very excited about seeing him in person. Being the space and astronomy junkie that I am, I am hoping to hear about his venture Virgin Galactic.

Register Now!

This was just meant to be a quick introduction to SolidWorks World and I hope you are excited about going. If you haven’t already done so, make sure you register by following this link. If you register before January 9th, 2009 you will receive a discount.

I am extremely excited about attending my very first SolidWorks World and I hope I will be able to meet as many of my readers as possible. Over the next few months leading up to SolidWorks World writing more about the event. So make sure you stay tuned, if you’re interested you can also follow the SolidWorks World buzz on twitter.

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