More Than a Trade Show: MI2 at ALUMINUM USA

MI2 attended ALUMINUM USA at the end of May in Nashville, TN, and our Member Engagement Manager, Jerilyn Bristow, returned energized and inspired after a jam-packed two days of learning, networking, and meaningful industry connections.

As a premier event covering the entire aluminum value chain—from upstream (mining, smelting) through midstream (casting, rolling, extrusions) to downstream (finishing, fabrication)—ALUMINUM USA lives up to its reputation. It offers a critical forum for suppliers, manufacturers, and industry professionals to meet face-to-face, explore exhibitions, attend cutting-edge conference sessions, and participate in tech-forward networking opportunities. The event draws engineers, producers, processors, purchasers, and end-users from across application industries like automotive, aerospace, building & construction, packaging, and electronics—and this year did not disappoint.

“The show was well attended,” said Jerilyn. “It was packed with presentations and education sessions that were standing room only.”

Being relatively new to MI2, Jerilyn described the event as her opportunity to truly “meet” the metals industry. From walking the show floor and watching equipment demonstrations to engaging with attendees about their biggest challenges and proudest innovations, the experience was a crash course in the energy and momentum driving this space.

“Talking to people about the pain points, successes, and goals of their business—and finding ways they can tap into the value and benefit of MI2 membership—was the highlight,” she added. “It reminded me exactly why MI2 exists: to connect, catalyze, and accelerate Kentucky’s leadership in metals innovation.”

There was also plenty of buzz around MI2’s upcoming conference this October. Attendees were impressed to hear about the turnout at last year’s event, and interest in this year’s programming was high.

“I think we’ll see many of the companies we met in the last two days in October!” Jerilyn shared.

Another highlight of the trip was the collaboration and support MI2 received from the staff of the Quebec Government Office, who visited the MI2 offices in May. Their team helped make key introductions and promoted MI2’s mission and work.

“It’s great to have them on our team,” Jerilyn said. “Strong partnerships like this expand our reach and impact.”

Jerilyn came away from ALUMINUM USA with new connections, fresh insights, and a renewed sense of purpose. Events like this remind us why it’s so important to stay engaged—not just within our state, but across the broader metals ecosystem. As Kentucky continues to position itself as a hub for innovation and production in metals manufacturing, MI2 is proud to be at the table, building bridges and creating opportunities.

We’re already looking forward to what’s next—and we can’t wait to welcome many of these new faces to our conference this fall. Stay tuned!