In today’s competitive market, design engineers from fabricators, manufacturers, and OEMs must innovate to stay ahead. This session, led by expert metallurgists Mick and Nick, explores how lightweighting strategies can transform operations, delivering measurable gains in productivity, sustainability, and performance. Adapting proven lightweighting techniques from the auto industry, they’ve customized these methods for Construction and Agriculture applications. Discover how advanced steel grades like High-Strength Low-Alloy (HSLA) and Ultra High Strength Steel (UHSS) can reduce material thickness while maintaining structural integrity, offering key benefits: Increased Payloads: Transport more with less, boosting efficiency. Enhanced Performance: Extend equipment life by reducing stress, Sustainability Gains: Lower emissions with greener designs, Cost Savings: Save on materials and energy costs, Operational Ease: Use steels optimized for welding, cutting, and forming. This session includes practical guidance and a Q&A, equipping attendees with strategies to future-proof operations and thrive in fabrication.
Overview
About the Speakers
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Mick Gugel
Steel WarehouseBiographyWith over 30 years in steel, Mick, a Michigan Tech graduate, is a seasoned metallurgist and problem solver. He collaborates closely with customers, leveraging expertise in advanced steel grades like HSLA and UHSS to develop innovative solutions. Mick's technical knowledge and hands-on approach have helped fabricators and manufacturers improve efficiency, enhance performance, and achieve their goals. -
Nicholas Kaufmann
Steel WarehouseBiographyNicholas Kaufmann, a University of Arizona graduate and Cold Mill Product Metallurgist with 17 years of experience delivers innovative solutions that drive customer success. At Steel Warehouse, he partners with fabricators to tackle challenges, optimize processes, and support sustainability goals. Known for empowering customers through education, Nicholas simplifies metallurgical concepts through training and workshops. His steel making and hot/cold mill background dovetail well with a passion for collaboration, ensuring lasting impact and cutting-edge results.
Pricing & Registration
| Sessions | Member Price | Non-Member Price |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Sessions | $195 | $220 |
| Workshops | $195 | $220 |
| Best Value Full Conference (5-10 Sessions) |
$195 | $220 |
| Sessions | Member Price | Non-Member Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Session | $112.50 | $125 |
| 2 Sessions | $202.50 | $225 |
| 3 Sessions | $270 | $300 |
| 4-8 Sessions | $405 | $450 |
| Sessions | Member Price | Non-Member Price |
|---|---|---|
| Half-Day Workshops (W4, W11) | FREE | FREE |
| One-Hour Sessions (W12, W13, W14, W18) | FREE | FREE |
| Two-Hour Sessions (W16, W17) | $50 | $75 |
| Weld-Ed Conference (W5) | $50 | $75 |
| Half-Day Sessions (W2, W3, W7, W10) | $345 | $430 |
| Full-Day Sessions (W6, W8, W9) | $565 | $665 |
| Two-Day Session (W1) | $795 | $895 |
| Professional Program (W15) | $395 | $495 |
* Non-member price for AWS Welding Full-Day Sessions only includes a one-year AWS Individual Membership.