And So It Begins

This is a busy week for many of us in the machine tool industry, getting ready to head to Chicago for IMTS 2018. Same goes for all of us here at Okuma, especially the top-notch crew that handles our set up work at McCormick Place. We thought we'd share a bit of the action that's been taking place onsite for several weeks now, so enjoy the photos below. A big THANK YOU to Okuma Corporation in Japan, Okuma America in Charlotte, and our distributors throughout the Americas for pulling together to make all this happen!

IMTS 2018: And so it begins...

Lofty Ambitions: Here's our new hanging sign that will circle our booth from above. This feature alone took two full days to install.

It's a Red Bull Night: McCormick Place opens at 12:01 a.m. and trucks carrying our machines are allowed to enter the building. Here you see the first of many 18-wheelers arriving in our massive booth.

Best Offload Day Ever: Things went smoothly as 21 machines and their accessories were unloaded onto the show floor in 16.5 hours. We're talking 1 million pounds in total weight (that's one mighty floor they have at McCormick!).

Intensity: The crew is intensely focused, especially during this strategy session held to decide where to have dinner that night.

We've Got a Handle on It: This handle may have come off in shipping, but overall everything's in good shape.

Here It Comes: The crossrail was installed on this Okuma double column without a hitch.

You'll Thank Us Later: We never skimp on the carpet padding, a must-have for any successful show.

Working "As One": Okuma and distributors work side-by-side in the trenches, assembling machine after machine.

Everyone Wants in on the Fun: Installing chucks on the LU7000EX lathe. What a beast of a machine.

Powering Up: The GENOS M460V-5AX is in place and has power and air. Machines are set up and prepped with their show demos.

It's Alive!: Robots come to life, like this MU-5000VA and robot from Gosiger Automation.

On the Loose in Chicago: After another long setup day, this Okuma member had the energy for a stroll through the city. Soon, these sidewalks will be crammed with more than 100,000 machine tool folks. We can't wait to see you at Okuma Booth #338500!