SPRING 2018

58
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Jo Morris Marketing Director, Fastener Training Institute ®
FASTENER TRAINING INSTITUTE ®
5318 East 2nd Street #325, Long Beach, CA 90803
TEL 562-473-5373 FAX 661-449-3232
EMAIL info@fastenertraining.org WEB www.fastenertraining.org
THE VALUE OF TRADE SHOWS…
A GREAT PLACE TO LEARN
With computer-mediated technologies facilitating
more business transactions than ever before one would
think that trade shows represent a marketing strategy
of the past. Ironically, even with the rise of digital
e-commerce, trade shows have become more vital
for buyers and sellers. Although product sourcing
and procurement can easily be conducted through the
internet, it allows for a market flooded with options and
poor information. Trade shows offer a one stop shop
for direct access to the product experts and a place to
get questions addressed quickly. Not only can visitors
compare products, see what’s new and network…they
can learn! The reality is that business professionals,
especially in the fastener industry, will always require
face to face dealings to make decisions about the
products they buy and sell.
While the primary reason to attend a trade show
may be to see new products and keep up with industry
trends, they are also a great place to learn. Lectures,
keynote speakers, workshops and panel discussions
are key elements of successful trade shows. Although
potentially higher cost then web based options to attend,
by taking advantage of all that quality shows have to
offer, it’s an investment high on returns for every level of
employee.
The Fastener Training Institute has always supported
trade shows and regional tabletop events with educational
content. Like manufacturers with product experts, FTI
provides access to the fastener industry’s most renowned
specialists and leaders. We use the title “Industry
Expert” for a reason, our instructors are the leaders of
TECHNICAL ARTICLE
the industry vesting years of time specializing in their
field with research and expertise. Take advantage of
hearing their thoughts and perspectives when you meet
them in person at one of our classes.
For the first time, the Fastener Training Institute
will offer two classes during the same venue, at the
upcoming Fastener Fair USA. Fastener Fair USA is the
first show to incorporate the entire supply chain under
one roof. Manufacturers, distributors and end users
together, this translates to fastener users of all levels
of knowledge, needs and experience. To support all the
visitors attending the show and their range of knowledge
the Fastener Training Institute will present on April 10th,
“Fastening 101” and “Understanding the Bolted Joint”,
both sponsored by the Fastener Education Foundation.
What better way to prepare for a two-day trade show than
with some product knowledge!
Fastening 101 is instructed
by industry leader Laurence
Claus. This class is a must for
those new to the industry as well
as anyone who wants to know more
about the products they buy, sell,
warehouse and use. The seminar
is perfect for manufacturers, distributors and end users.
Students will explore how fasteners are manufactured as
well as some basic engineering concepts. Topics include
fastener design and material options, head styles and
drive configurations, heat treatments and platings plus
a discussion on why there are cost differences from one
fastener to another.
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