Ultimate Guide to CAM Webinars 2024

CAM webinars are live, online training sessions designed for professionals in manufacturing, focusing on CAM software, CNC machining, and advanced technologies. These webinars provide practical insights into AI, automation, 3D scanning, and efficiency improvements in manufacturing workflows. Key takeaways include:

• AI in Manufacturing: Learn how AI improves efficiency, reduces waste, and integrates with robotics.
• 3D Scanning & Reverse Engineering: Discover how to recreate legacy parts and enhance designs with 3D scanning tools.
• Efficiency Techniques: Explore strategies like digital twins, process simulation, and ergonomic improvements to boost productivity.

These sessions are ideal for machine shop owners, engineers, and procurement specialists looking to stay updated on the latest tools and techniques. Recorded sessions offer flexibility for busy schedules, and many webinars include live demos and Q&A opportunities. Whether you're new to CAM software or refining advanced methods, these webinars can help improve your operations and keep you competitive in the fast-changing manufacturing industry.

CAM Assist AI Programming for Mastercam Webinar Recording

Main Topics in 2024 CAM Webinars

The 2024 CAM webinars dive into some of the biggest challenges machine shops face today, focusing on adopting new technologies and improving operational workflows.

AI and Automation in Manufacturing

AI is becoming a game-changer for machine shops, helping to improve efficiency and reduce waste. In fact, artificial intelligence is a key highlight of the 2024 CAM webinars. While the use of generative AI jumped from 33% in 2023 to 71% across most industries, manufacturing still lags behind at just 12%, compared to IT's 36%. These webinars aim to close this gap by showcasing how AI can streamline operations, minimize waste, and make better use of resources, all while complementing human expertise.

"The power of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) in today's CAD/CAM software works best when coupled with the flexibility to manage machining specifics to meet individual needs." – HCLSoftware

Real-world examples bring these concepts to life. For instance, Burnley Brewing used Rockwell Automation's FactoryTalk® to implement smart manufacturing by connecting automation tools with performance visualization. Similarly, platforms like ABB's Ability™ and Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure™ use AI and data analytics to improve energy use and resource management.

A growing trend featured in these webinars is the shift toward edge AI, where data is processed directly on the production floor for real-time insights. Sessions also emphasize sustainable practices and the integration of AI with robotics to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. IBM's Watson Supply Chain Insights is a standout example, leveraging AI to provide full visibility into supply chains, enabling manufacturers to make informed decisions and predict potential disruptions.

Reverse Engineering and 3D Scanning

Reverse engineering is a lifeline for machine shops dealing with outdated parts or legacy models that need to be recreated digitally. The combination of 3D scanning and reverse engineering is one of the most practical topics covered in the 2024 CAM webinars. These sessions explain how 3D scanners capture millions of data points to create detailed digital replicas of physical components. The captured data is then processed into usable CAD models through reverse engineering software.

Take Kindig-it, a custom automotive shop in Utah, as an example. They use a FARO 3D scanner and Geomagic Design X software to restore and customize vehicles. Beyond recreating parts, webinars explore other uses, including repairing broken tools, enhancing designs, creating custom products, preparing models for 3D printing, and converting physical components into CAD files.

Educational sessions, like those from Verisurf, walk participants through the entire workflow - from data capture to creating solid models. The webinars also touch on automating 3D scanning processes for tasks like inspection and quality reporting, showcasing how 3D scanning is evolving into a key tool for modern metrology.

Manufacturing Practices and Efficiency

Improving efficiency is a top priority for machine shops, and the 2024 CAM webinars focus on methods that deliver clear, measurable results. Data shows that over 75% of machine shops still rely on disconnected CMM processes, and 61% use paper-based methods for transferring data. These inefficiencies are being tackled with tools like digital twin technology and process simulation, which help identify and fix problems before they disrupt production.

Time and motion studies, for example, can increase efficiency by 38% and boost productivity by an impressive 218%.

"Process improvement is constantly optimizing the process." – Sophie Miles

Webinars also cover ergonomic enhancements, such as optimizing assembly line tasks, which have been shown to reduce back pain complaints from 60.3% to 31.3%. Other topics include quality improvement strategies like applying FMEA to shell molding processes, which can cut rejection rates from 7.13% to 3.14%. Even simple practices, like screw counting during assembly, are highlighted as effective ways to prevent costly errors.

Sessions explore a variety of strategies, from automating repetitive tasks to standardizing workflows and reducing unnecessary material movement. These improvements often deliver quick returns on investment without requiring major equipment upgrades. Up next, learn how to find and sign up for these sessions to start applying these insights in your shop.

How to Find and Register for CAM Webinars

Finding CAM webinars that align with your needs is easier than you might think. The secret lies in knowing where to search and what to prioritize when deciding which sessions to attend.

Where to Find CAM Webinars

CAM Software Vendors are an excellent starting point for technical and detailed webinars. For example, OPEN MIND Technologies frequently hosts webinars on hyperMILL software and machining strategies. Some of their recent sessions include "Release Highlights – hyperMILL 2025" in March 2025 and "hyperMILL Feature and Macro Technology" in November 2024. Their webinars aim to provide in-depth insights, as they explain:

"Our webinar topics cover hyperMILL technology, or collaboration with partners on case study or industry highlights." - OPEN MIND Technologies

Similarly, HCL CAMWorks focuses on their CAD/CAM software and its integration with SOLIDWORKS. They hosted the "Design to Manufacturing Virtual Conference" in October 2024, showcasing how software vendors often combine multiple sessions into larger, themed events.

Industry Publications and Organizations also provide valuable content tailored to machine shops. Modern Machine Shop offers a packed webinar schedule, including sessions like "Transform Your QMS: From Paper Chaos to Audit Excellence" (July 15, 2025) and "Comprehensive Support for Multi-Channel Mill-Turn and Swiss Machining" (July 16, 2025). These webinars emphasize practical applications rather than just software features.

The Precision Machined Products Association (PMPA) is another great resource, offering Technical Tuesday Webinars and recordings from their National Technical Conference. For instance, NTC 2025, held March 30–April 1 in Cleveland, OH, included sessions such as "Automating Part Inspection with New Technology" and "I Have a Problem". These webinars are especially useful for smaller shops tackling everyday precision machining challenges.

PLM and Manufacturing Consultancies like CIMdata provide free educational webinars on broader trends in manufacturing. Their "2025 PLM Status & Trends" webinar, scheduled for July 10, 2025, is a good example of how these sessions can help machine shops stay informed about industry-wide changes.

Finally, Machine Design frequently lists webinars focusing on CAD/CAM software and productivity improvements in manufacturing.

Once you've identified the sessions that interest you, it’s time to register effectively.

Registration Tips and Best Practices

To get the most out of CAM webinars, it’s important to approach registration with a plan. Here’s how to make the process work for you:

• Choose webinars that align with your shop's needs and software. Focus on sessions that address your specific manufacturing challenges or tools.
• Check the presenter’s credentials. Look for instructors with hands-on machine shop experience and a strong understanding of production challenges - they're likely to provide the most useful insights.
• Focus on practical content. Webinars offering live demos, hands-on training, or downloadable project files are more actionable than purely theoretical presentations. For example, HCL CAMWorks hosts sessions like "Improving CAM Throughput without Disrupting Production", which focus on real-world improvements.
• Pay attention to time zones. When registering for live events, verify the time zone to avoid confusion. Many vendors also offer recorded versions, so you can choose what suits your schedule best.
• Register early. This ensures your spot and gives you time to prepare by downloading any required software and testing your connection - especially critical for interactive sessions.
• Review the agenda carefully. Confirm that the session covers essential topics like CAM operations, toolpath generation, post-processing, and machine setup without being too overwhelming.
• Opt for recorded sessions when possible. Even if you attend live, having access to the recording allows you to revisit complex topics and share them with your team later, making the webinar even more valuable.

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Getting the Most Value from CAM Webinars

The real value of CAM webinars comes from active participation and applying what you learn. Machine shops that engage fully and implement new insights often see noticeable improvements in their operations.

How to Participate Effectively

Active participation transforms a webinar from a passive experience into a practical learning opportunity. In fact, live webinars with at least 60% interactive attendees achieve 50% higher conversions on call-to-action buttons compared to less engaging sessions. Simply put, the more involved you are, the more you'll gain.

Polls are a great way to deepen your understanding. Top-performing webinars often see a 70% poll completion rate, with hosts running an average of two polls per hour. Displaying polls can even increase completions by 15%. Use these questions to compare your shop's practices against industry benchmarks.

Before the webinar, identify 3–5 specific challenges your shop faces with CAM programming, toolpath optimization, or machine setup. This will help you ask focused, meaningful questions during the Q&A instead of generic ones.

Make the most of chat features. Webinars typically generate over 300 individual interactions. Share examples from your shop to highlight challenges or spark discussions. If you're hesitant to speak up, remember that others might be waiting for someone to voice the exact question they have in mind.

Take advantage of breakout rooms and whiteboards to exchange ideas. You might find solutions to problems you're facing or even discover new collaboration opportunities with other attendees.

If you're watching as a team, assign someone to handle shop floor interruptions so the rest of the group can focus on the content.

By applying these strategies, you'll uncover practical insights that can be immediately put to use in your shop.

Using Webinar Knowledge in Your Machine Shop

Active participation is just the first step - what you do afterward matters even more. Start by documenting the key takeaways and tracking improvements, such as reduced cycle times, longer tool life, or quicker setups. Be sure to save presenter contact information and any downloadable resources for future reference.

Instead of overhauling your processes all at once, test one or two new techniques on a low-risk project. For example, if a webinar introduces new toolpath optimization strategies, try them on a familiar part to evaluate their impact without jeopardizing critical work.

Integrate what you learn into your current workflows. The most successful changes often build on what you're already doing. For instance, if you pick up advanced post-processing tips, think about how they can complement your existing machine setups or operator training.

Don't hesitate to follow up with presenters. Many are willing to provide extra guidance via email if you're actively implementing their suggestions. Use this opportunity to ask technical questions or request clarification on complex topics.

These steps ensure that the insights you gain lead to meaningful improvements in your shop’s daily operations.

Training Your Team with Webinars

While individual participation is valuable, team training amplifies the benefits across your shop. Recorded webinars can serve as structured training materials. Break longer sessions into shorter, 15–20 minute segments that focus on specific skills or techniques.

Plan team viewing sessions for topics that impact multiple roles, like safety updates or software changes. This ensures everyone has the same understanding and encourages immediate discussions about how to apply the information.

Assign webinars based on individual roles. For example, CAM programmers might benefit from sessions on toolpath optimization, while machine operators could focus on setup and troubleshooting techniques. Aligning content with responsibilities ensures targeted skill development.

Encourage team members to share brief summaries of what they’ve learned. This practice reinforces key points and spreads valuable insights throughout the shop.

Use webinar content to tackle specific challenges. For instance, TECMA demonstrated in an on-demand session how CAM automation reduced setup times, improved quality, extended tool life, and shortened cycle times. Examples like these offer actionable strategies that your team can adapt to your own workflow.

Set up regular webinar reviews. Dedicate time each month or quarter to discuss the most impactful sessions your team has attended. Review what techniques have been successfully implemented and identify areas where further learning is needed.

"Discover cutting-edge CAM techniques, boost productivity, and stay ahead in manufacturing with our expert-led online sessions."
– QTE Manufacturing Solutions

To get the most from CAM webinars, treat them as active learning opportunities. Fully engage, apply what you learn, and watch as these sessions become a cornerstone for continuous improvement in your machine shop.

Conclusion

CAM webinars play a crucial role in helping machine shops stay ahead in the fast-changing world of manufacturing. They emphasize the importance of continuous learning as a way to remain competitive and efficient.

Key Benefits of CAM Webinars

CAM webinars offer actionable insights that can directly improve your operations and profitability. For instance, NX CAM has been shown to cut programming time by up to 90% and reduce cutting time by as much as 50%. Similarly, Highly Automated CAM can lower programming time by 33% to 80%. These kinds of efficiency gains translate to significant savings and faster turnaround times.

These sessions also teach participants how to optimize toolpaths, which reduces material waste and boosts overall production efficiency. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how technologies like AI and machine learning can make CAM systems smarter by learning from past operations. Plus, topics like Industry 4.0 and IIoT integration are covered, giving you tools to monitor and fine-tune your manufacturing processes in real time.

On top of operational benefits, CAM webinars address sustainability by showing how to adopt circular manufacturing practices and minimize material usage. This aligns with the growing need for environmentally conscious manufacturing solutions.

Perhaps most importantly, these webinars tackle the skills gap in manufacturing. They highlight simplified user interfaces and intuitive programming tools, making advanced CAM features accessible to teams with varying levels of expertise.

The Importance of Ongoing Learning

The benefits of CAM webinars don’t stop at immediate improvements - they’re also essential for staying competitive in the long run. As CAM programming evolves, it increasingly incorporates advanced technologies like AI, machine learning, and additive manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing. Keeping up with these advancements requires a commitment to continuous learning.

Regular attendance at webinars ensures you stay informed about these developments. The interactive format, which often includes live Q&A sessions, polls, and expert-led discussions, provides a dynamic learning experience that static resources simply can’t match.

For additional support, the Machine Shop Directory connects you with over 200 top-rated CNC shops. This network complements your education by offering access to industry leaders who can share practical insights and real-world applications of the techniques you’re mastering.

FAQs

How can AI and automation improve my manufacturing processes, and what are the first steps to getting started?

AI and automation have the potential to reshape manufacturing by simplifying processes, cutting expenses, and improving quality control. By integrating these technologies, manufacturers can fine-tune workflows, reduce mistakes, and maintain consistent production levels - key factors for staying competitive in today’s market.

To begin, take a close look at your existing systems and pinpoint where automation or AI could solve problems or boost efficiency. Create a detailed plan that includes choosing the right tools, training your workforce, and starting with small pilot projects before rolling out on a larger scale. This careful, phased approach helps ensure a seamless transition and allows you to fully tap into the advantages these technologies offer.

How are 3D scanning and reverse engineering used in machine shops?

In machine shops, 3D scanning and reverse engineering play a key role in crafting precise digital models of physical parts. These technologies are especially handy when it comes to replicating or tweaking intricate or outdated components.

By gathering highly detailed measurements of complex shapes, 3D scanning minimizes the mistakes often linked to manual measuring. It also speeds up tasks like redesigning, quality checks, and prototyping. On the other hand, reverse engineering allows manufacturers to streamline repairs and custom fabrication, boosting both accuracy and efficiency, which ultimately enhances productivity across the shop.

How can I apply the knowledge from CAM webinars to enhance my shop's productivity and efficiency?

To get the most out of insights shared in CAM webinars, consider incorporating automation tools and simulation technologies into your machining processes. These technologies can help simplify workflows and fine-tune tool paths, leading to shorter machining cycles and greater precision - both of which can have a big impact on productivity.

Take a close look at your shop's current workflow and pinpoint areas that could benefit from improvement based on the practices discussed during the webinars. Another key step is investing in employee training to ensure your team is up to speed with the latest techniques and software updates. By adopting these approaches, you can cut down on downtime, improve accuracy, and boost overall efficiency in your operations.