Back in the composites saddle

When I try to think of how to describe the past few weeks of reentering the world of composites, the old cliché of getting back in the saddle comes to mind. This industry is so incredibly fast-paced and the amount of information — from new developments in various composite applications to new technologies — is vast. CompositesWorld has numerous initiatives in progress, and picking up the mantle of editor-in-chief for the brand is very much like jumping on the back of a very energetic and spirited horse. In addition to putting out regular magazine issues and e-newsletters, we’re also working on improving and streamlining our website, injecting new life into some of our digital offerings, ramping up for the conference/trade show season and planning our editorial calendar for the coming year.

Preparation for numerous industry events is in full swing. CW is ramping up for CAMX, the largest composites and advanced materials event in North America, which this year is taking place in Atlanta, Ga., U.S. from Oct. 30-Nov. 2. The show is always an exciting one, filled with many opportunities for connecting with colleagues in the industry and CW readers. Attending CAMX is one of the ways we keep our finger on the pulse of trends and emerging technological innovations that are shaping our industry today. Within the next two issues, you’ll find a helpful CAMX preview section, offering a look at some of what exhibitors will be showcasing (see page 12 of the digital September issue).

This year’s trade show is a special one for CW as we’re celebrating the magazine’s 30^th anniversary. Looking back on CW’s involvement in the industry, it’s amazing to think of all the things that have happened during that time. CW is proud to have reported on the advancements that composites have enabled during the past three decades, and there’s no better place to celebrate with our readers than CAMX. 

As part of our 30^th anniversary celebration, we thought it would be fun to publish a special two-part retrospective chronicling some of the milestones of the composites industry. You’ll find the story’s first installment, discussing early developments of the industry’s formative years here. Part two of our composites retrospective, cataloging the past three decades as seen through the lens of CW’s reporting, will be released in the October issue and here online.

On a personal note, looking back at the history of composites and some of the reporting that CW has accomplished during the magazine’s history was inspiring. I’m even more excited for some of the plans the brand has in store. As I mentioned, CW is taking stock of some of its digital offerings and working to streamline their production. For example, we’re committing our CW Talks podcast to a regular monthly schedule. Check out our most recent episode, which delves into some of the rigorous engineering and testing that goes into the use of carbon fiber for naval submersibles — a discussion that offers more insight into use of the material for undersea applications in the wake of the OceanGate disaster.  

This year’s trade show is a special one for CW as we’re celebrating the magazine’s 30^th anniversary.

Speaking of carbon fiber, CW is also working to finalize the program for its forthcoming Carbon Fiber Conference. The event is designed to provide you with market information and insights into the carbon fiber supply chain, as well as the latest advances in applications and developments involving carbon fiber composites. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with innovators, decision-makers, technology companies and OEMs from Nov. 28-30, 2023, in Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.  

Needless to say, there is a lot going on. The past few weeks, the CW team has been on the road visiting facilities and taking advantage of training opportunities. I recently had the pleasure of visiting several Cincinnati area facilities with brand VP Jeff Sloan and district sales manager Barb Businger. Meanwhile, CW editors Hannah Mason and Grace Nehls recently completed a training course at Abaris Training in Reno, Nev., U.S. There’s plenty more in store for the year and we look forward to seeing you out there.