Special events coming to Indianapolis at Advanced Textiles Expo 2025

Advanced Textiles Expo® 2025 is just around the corner and it’s shaping up to be an event you won’t want to miss. This year, it’s not just about checking out the latest products and technologies. We have a lineup of special events designed to help you learn, connect, compete and have fun with others in the textile industry.

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming to Indy this November.

Put your skills to the test

Ready to roll up your sleeves? ATA’s Textiles Challenge is back and it’s your chance to compete in hands-on textile challenges. You’ll go through multiple rounds to show off your skills and maybe even earn a spot in the finals. Whether you are an expert or just eager to try something new, this challenge is a great way to test yourself and learn.

Challenges take place Thurs., Nov. 6.

Prizes: The championship winner receives free registration to next year’s Expo and a gift card. Runners-up also receive gift cards. Sign up for the Textiles Challenge through your registration.

Industry Night at the Slippery Noodle

Industry Night is the most talked-about evening at the Expo. It will be held at the famous Slippery Noodle right in downtown Indianapolis. You can expect live music by ATA’s own band Hangin’ by a Thread, tasty local food and plenty of drinks to enjoy while you network with your peers.

This event does require an add-on ticket and space is limited. Make sure to get your ticket early before space runs out.

Sponsored by Herculite, Sunbrella, TVF and Weathermax

Women’s Networking Walk and Leadership Session

Join two great events for women in the industry.

First, the Women’s Networking Walk will kick off Friday morning, Nov. 7. It’s a casual way to meet other women in textiles while getting some fresh air before the show floor opens.

Then there is the Women’s Leadership Empowerment Session called Balancing Priorities for Success. This session will share ideas and advice on how to manage the many demands of work and life while building a successful career. More details on timing will be announced soon.

Add these free events to your registration before seats fill up.

Marine Fabricators Association (MFA) Roadshow

The MFA Roadshow is back and packed with expert insights and hands-on marine fabrication training. This year’s sessions feature Julie Tinsman of Strataglass, Jeff Newkirk of Precision Custom Canvas, and Kyle Van Damme of Marine Tops Unlimited—three industry leaders ready to share their knowledge and experience.

Topics will cover marine fabric selection, traditional patterning techniques, and U-zips, offering practical tips you can take back to your shop. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills or pick up new ones, this event is a must for marine fabricators.

Add this free event to your registration before seats fill up.

Talking Textiles: Daily live podcast recordings

This year, Talking Textiles goes live—every day! Join us at the ATA Hub on the show floor for daily live podcast recordings featuring conversations with textile leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Hear insights on trends, challenges, and stories from across the industry—all live and unfiltered.

Stay tuned for the full schedule of hosts and guests.

NEW! Networking Roundtables

Get ready for real talk about real business. These new Networking Roundtables bring fabricators and suppliers together for candid, topic-driven conversations. Discuss challenges and opportunities such as tariffs, workforce development, and overcoming sales objections in a collaborative, peer-to-peer setting.

Free to attend—just add it to your registration.

NEW! State of the Industry Update

Be the first to hear what’s ahead for the textile industry. In this can’t-miss session, ATA will present exclusive findings from its annual State of the Industry Survey, including growth markets, economic outlooks, and top industry trends.

The session will also include testimonials on how ATA programming supports member success across markets.

More to come

These are just some of the special events coming to Advanced Textiles Expo 2025. We have more exciting announcements on the way, so be sure to check back for updates.

See more details about special events.

Ready to join us?

Advanced Textiles Expo runs Nov. 5–7 in Indianapolis, Ind. Whether this is your first time or you are a regular, these events add extra value to your visit and help you connect with the industry in new ways.

If you have any questions about the special events or need help planning your visit, contact the ATA Events Team at events@textiles.org.

We can’t wait to see you in Indy!

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