The Future Technologies Conference presents the best of current systems research and practice, emphasizing innovation and quantified experience. FTC has emerged as the foremost world-wide gathering of academic researchers, Ph.D. and graduate students, top research think tanks and industry technology developers. 

Researchers, academics and technologists from leading universities, research firms, government agencies and companies from 50+ countries present the latest research at the forefront of technology and computing.

In this workshop, students will be introduced to the basics of desktop 3d printing. The course will start by providing an overview of 3d printing technologies before focusing on Fused Filament Fabrication/Fused Deposition Modeling (FFF/FDM). Students will then be guided through best practices in downloading a 3d model, processing it through a slicer, and starting a print job on the IDL 3D printer. While the print is underway, students will be introduced to a web browser based Computer Aided Design (CAD) program, TinkerCAD. Students will be encouraged to find downloadable models to make a mash-up OR design their own object for 3D Printing.

All materials and equipment use will be included in the cost. This class is intended for participants 16 years of age or older. If under 18, the student will receive a copy of the liability form that a parent or guardian is required to sign prior to starting the class.

Explore laser cutting and jewelry making in this three hour workshop! It will begin by covering laser cutting basics. Then it will explore jewelry making techniques to add jump rings and hardware to create earrings from laser cut acrylic pieces. Students will leave with at least three pairs of earrings. Findings will be sterling silver.

All materials and equipment will be included in the cost. This class is intended for participants 16 years of age or older. If under 18, the student will receive a copy of the liability form that a parent or guardian is required to sign prior to starting the class.

This one-day-only special event at Discovery World is a hands-on experience into the world of drone technology! Fly a drone in indoor cages, navigating the aerial course and completing challenges. Whether a first-time drone user or a seasoned hobbyist, you'll have fun exploring this technology firsthand.

Students and families – see how exciting drones can be, and learn about all the career and educational opportunities in Wisconsin for those who want to dive deeper into this technology.

Educators – bring your class on a memorable field trip, and attend our free professional development sessions that will help you incorporate drones into your own programs and curriculum.

Plus…everyone who attends Drone Fest will have access to experience ALL of Discovery World's exhibits.

The REC Foundation Aerial Drone Competition prepares our youth for these vocations now and in the future by strengthening skills they will rely on, both in the field and around the workplace. Through its uniquely engaging combination of teamwork and problem-solving, the competition challenges students to execute a problem-solving process that resembles the same mindset used by professionals in nearly every industry across the globe.

During an Aerial Drone Competition, students complete four missions: Teamwork, Piloting Skills , Autonomous Flight, and Communications. Through these missions, students discover opportunities to approach and solve new challenges with confidence.

Underwater Intervention attracts a global audience of engineers, technical specialists, industry leaders and experts, to share ideas, debate the issues of the moment and to create common agendas for the future of the industry. Underwater Intervention features some of the world’s leading figures within the upstream oil and gas industry coupled with technical sessions covering the most current challenges and up-to-date strategies and technologies.

Northland Community and Technical College along with the National Center for Autonomous Technologies will be hosting a pre-register open house event for student in grades 7-12. Schools can pre-register students for hands-on classes that teach them about aviation, drones, electronics, STEM & much more. Students will be able to take part in 3-4 classes that run about 45 minutes long and lunch will be provided.

NEW THIS YEAR! There will be some local & regional Industry partners joining for a mini career fair. Students will be able to visit with employers in these fields & learn about skills, education, wages, locations, & much more.