Why SMRP Is More Than a Conference
Why SMRP Is More Than a Conference—It’s a Community Driving Industry Forward
When you walk into the SMRP (Society for Maintenance & Reliability Professionals) annual event, you’re not just attending another industry conference—you’re stepping into a vibrant community of professionals who are passionate about keeping the world moving. This year’s gathering in Fort Worth, Texas, was a powerful reminder of why SMRP stands out: collaboration, education, and innovation are at its core.
The Power of Connection
Dan Anderson, newly elected Chairman of the SMRP Board, summed it up perfectly: “It’s a reconnection of family.” After last year’s cancellation due to Hurricane Milton, this year’s event felt like a homecoming. LinkedIn buzzed with excitement as professionals confirmed their attendance, and the energy on the floor was electric. SMRP isn’t just about networking—it’s about building relationships that last and sharing knowledge that elevates the entire industry.
Inspiring the Next Generation
One of the most pressing conversations at SMRP was about workforce development. How do we attract and inspire the next generation of maintenance and reliability professionals? Dan emphasized that it’s not an “old guys’ game” anymore. The industry must make learning fresh, fun, and accessible. SMRP is leading the charge with initiatives like micro-learning modules and revamping its Body of Knowledge to deliver bite-sized, actionable insights instead of overwhelming PDFs.
Technology and Fundamentals—Finding the Balance
From AI to augmented reality, technology is transforming maintenance and reliability. But Dan reminded us that fundamentals still matter: “You’ve got to be able to throw the ball, run the bases, hit the ball.” Technology is a tool, not a replacement for human judgment. AI can process massive data sets and flag anomalies, but decisions still require human expertise. As Reese Witherspoon famously said, “AI won’t take your job—the person who learns AI will.”
Breaking Down Silos
One challenge Dan highlighted is the fragmentation of industry knowledge. With so many organizations and solutions, it’s easy for professionals to feel lost. SMRP’s mission is to bring people together, foster collaboration, and create a unified vision for success. When we share knowledge and work collectively, the entire industry wins.
Your Call to Action
If you’re in maintenance, reliability, asset management, or industrial technology, SMRP is where you need to be. This isn’t just an event—it’s an opportunity to connect with passionate professionals like Dan Anderson, gain insights that will transform your career, and join a movement dedicated to inspiring the next generation.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Mark your calendar for SMRP 2026. Budget for it now—you won’t regret it.
- Connect with Dan Anderson on LinkedIn and follow Reliability X for cutting-edge insights.
- Visit https://industrialtalk.com to keep the conversation going and access resources that help you stay bold, brave, and innovative.
The future of industry depends on collaboration, education, and innovation—and it starts with you. Be part of the change. Join SMRP. Inspire the next generation. Lead the way.
About the author, Scott
I am Scott MacKenzie, husband, father, and passionate industry educator. From humble beginnings as a lathing contractor and certified journeyman/lineman to an Undergraduate and Master’s Degree in Business Administration, I have applied every aspect of my education and training to lead and influence. I believe in serving and adding value wherever I am called.
