

Christopher Downs is the director of data products at AMT, where he leads the development of research tools and data products that power strategic decision-making across the manufacturing technology industry. Since joining AMT in 2015, Chris has held diverse roles spanning product development, data strategy, research operations, marketing, user growth, and survey methodology. He is passionate about transforming complex market signals into accessible, actionable intelligence that empowers organizations to innovate, compete, and grow. Always curious, Chris combines analytical rigor with an intuitive grasp of industry dynamics to inform his work and inspire new ways of thinking. He is focused on modernizing legacy research platforms, launching scalable data products, and unlocking new insights that shape the future of manufacturing technology. By challenging assumptions and championing the voice of the customer, Chris is committed to building tools that not only report on the market — but help define what’s next.
Christopher Downs is the director of data products at AMT, where he leads the development of research tools and data products that power strategic decision-making across the manufacturing technology industry. Since joining AMT in 2015, Chris has held diverse roles spanning product development, data strategy, research operations, marketing, user growth, and survey methodology. He is passionate about transforming complex market signals into accessible, actionable intelligence that empowers organizations to innovate, compete, and grow. Always curious, Chris combines analytical rigor with an intuitive grasp of industry dynamics to inform his work and inspire new ways of thinking. He is focused on modernizing legacy research platforms, launching scalable data products, and unlocking new insights that shape the future of manufacturing technology. By challenging assumptions and championing the voice of the customer, Chris is committed to building tools that not only report on the market — but help define what’s next.
Companies that consistently generate strong ROI from IMTS recognize that trade show success depends on disciplined follow-up, targeted audience engagement, and year-round marketing efforts that extend well beyond the show floor.
Turn IMTS insights, economic forecasts, and market intelligence into a stronger manufacturing strategy for the year ahead. Attend MTForecast 2026, Oct. 14-16, in Schaumburg, Ill.
See the economic signals shaping manufacturing now and prepare for a deeper look at what’s next at MTForecast.
Right now, most IMTS exhibitors are focused on last-minute booth details. Those things matter, but the biggest factor to your success is much simpler: Do the right people show up at your booth, and do you collect the right leads to justify your investment?
AMT’s Summer Economic Forum highlighted manufacturing demand, growth opportunities, and key risks ahead of MTForecast 2026, Oct. 14-16.
A practical guide to lead generation that drives business growth.
Exhibitor Passport helps IMTS exhibitors plan earlier, target verified attendees, capture more leads, and extend follow-up beyond the show – turning a one-time event into a sustained pipeline and stronger ROI.
Many smaller exhibitors can outperform larger ones by focusing on the right strategies before and during IMTS. With smart planning, targeted outreach, and the right tools, even a 10-by-10 booth can generate enough leads to fuel a sales pipeline for a year.
With real-world use cases and tangible investments driving demand, AI is now practical, profitable, and reshaping the manufacturing landscape. At AMT's 2026 Winter Economic Forum, manufacturers explored the business opportunities this technology presents.
Manufacturers face a year of transition as 2026 brings renewed growth, driven by technology, defense, and energy investment amid ongoing economic, policy, and global shifts.