MTI’s Education Committee Finalizes a High-Impact Program for the 2026 Spring Meeting in Albuquerque
As the Metal Treating Institute gears up for its highly anticipated 2026 Spring Meeting, April 13–15 at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the MTI Education Committee convened on December 3rd to finalize what promises to be one of the most dynamic and future-focused educational lineups the association has ever delivered.
Guided by Committee Chair, Shannon Ricciardo, and MTI CEO, Tom Morrison, the committee met to evaluate recent Member survey insights and industry trends shaping the future of heat treating. The result? A powerful, two-day program designed to energize leaders, bring clarity to emerging technologies, and deliver highly practical takeaways that Member companies can put into motion immediately.
The 2026 Spring Meeting’s educational agenda is fully aligned with a rapidly evolving workplace, maximizing Lean manufacturing to cut waste, and breakthrough innovations in robotics and automation. The educational program will end on a high note with a former America Ninja Warrior and NBC Analyst, Alex Weber, inspiring Members on, “How to be the Unstoppable YOU”. Attendees can expect fast-paced sessions, real-world insights, and a collaborative learning environment featuring:
DAY 1 – Culture, Data, and the Power of Lean
Culture Shift – Navigating the New Rules of Work Across Every Generation
Workplace culture is transforming faster than ever before. From Gen Z expectations to aging workforce transitions, Jamie Notter will unpack the new rules of leadership, communication, and engagement. Attendees will gain tools for building aligned, productive, retention-focused teams in a multi-generational world.
Using Data Analytics to Drive Lean Manufacturing & Cut Waste
Data has become the new currency of operational excellence. This session will dive into how heat treaters can harness analytics to optimize flow, reduce waste, eliminate bottlenecks, and drive measurable performance improvements.
MTI Annual Business Meeting
A yearly hallmark of the Spring Meeting, giving Members a clear picture of organizational progress and priorities for the year ahead.
DAY 2 – Robotics, AI, and Unstoppable Personal Performance
Unpacking the Possibilities of Robots and Exoskeletons in a Heat Treat Plant
Jared Li, from The Institute of AI and Human Cognition, will deliver an informative session on how robotics and human-assist technologies accelerate to work that heat treaters do as they stand on the brink of transformational change. This forward-looking session will examine real-world use cases, ROI opportunities, and safety enhancements arriving through robotics and exoskeleton systems.
MTI Featured Keynote – Alex Weber: Being the Unstoppable YOU
Closing the program is an inspiring and high-energy keynote from award-winning international speaker and former American Ninja Warrior host, Alex Weber. Attendees will walk away fired up, clear-minded, and ready to take bold action in 2026 and beyond.
Highly Engaging Interactive Format
Each educational session will feature a 60-minute presentation, followed by 10-minute facilitated table discussions, and a 10-minute full-group debrief, creating an environment where the room becomes part of the learning. Participants will leave with practical insights rooted in real peer-to-peer conversations—one of MTI’s greatest strengths.
Why You Should Be in Albuquerque, April 13–15
The 2026 Spring Meeting will take place in the vibrant city of Albuquerque, NM, known for its culture, cuisine, mountain landscapes, and iconic Southwestern energy. Combined with MTI’s strong networking culture, evening dinner/receptions, and local experiences, the event is shaping up to be a powerful mix of professional development and relationship-building.
Hotel room block opens December 20. As always, we expect a sellout, so book early to make sure you get the dates you need. Complete event details, hotel information, and registration can be found here: CLICK HERE
The Bottom Line: MTI Is Building the Future of the Industry
The Education Committee’s work reflects MTI’s commitment to helping Members stay ahead of change—technological change, workforce change, and competitive change. From leadership and culture to robotics and performance, the 2026 Spring Meeting will equip heat treating companies with the clarity, inspiration, and strategy they need to succeed in a rapidly shifting industrial landscape.
Mark your calendar, bring your team, and get ready for an unforgettable Spring Meeting experience in Albuquerque. The future of heat treating is accelerating—and MTI is leading the way!