METALCON, a global event dedicated exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction, is once again giving back to the city hosting its annual tradeshow and conference.

This year's event, taking place Oct. 18-20 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, has partnered with the Semper Fi & America’s Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans in all branches of the military. The program was created to direct urgently needed resources and financial support to critically wounded, ill and injured members of the U.S. Armed Forces alongside their families.  

Last year, METALCON raised funds in Indianapolis for World Central Kitchen to help provide food to families in war-torn Ukraine and across the region. This year, METALCON’s giving back program will benefit the fund and raise money for military veterans in the Las Vegas area. 

Joining METALCON at the show for the fund’s check presentation ceremony on Oct. 19 at 3:30 p.m. in the exhibit hall is Corp. Adam Bautz, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.), as the fund representative. 

Bautz, who lives in Las Vegas, is a “graduate” of the fund’s Apprenticeship Program. After serving four years as an infantry machine gunner in the Marines, he came home and faced many obstacles, finding the transition from military life to civilian life extremely challenging.

Eventually, he found nature and the great outdoors as a place for healing and reflection. It was through nature, being active and his adventurous spirit that Bautz found his true passion. Now owner and lead guide of Outdoor Travel Tours, he guides others to experience the power of nature and its healing capabilities through the outdoor lifestyle in and around Las Vegas.  

The Semper Fi & America’s Fund offers vital, life-changing support through a broad spectrum of services designed to meet the complex needs of those it serves during hospitalization, recovery and transition back into the local community, providing support through three key areas of assistance: Service Member & Family Support Program, Transition Program and Integrative Wellness Program. 

Since its inception, the fund has provided $306 million in assistance to 30,000 service members, veterans and military families nationwide, ensuring they have the tools, resources and support necessary to focus on recovery, healing and thriving in the community.

“The fund is committed to caring for our nation’s critically wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans and military families, not only their journey to recovery, but for a lifetime," said Mirka J. Young, senior manager, Community Events. "We appreciate the support from METALCON, which will help veterans and families in the Las Vegas area.”  

To raise funds this year, METALCON is taking donations at the show for the organization’s wristbands, in addition to holding a raffle offering multiple prizes, including a grand prize three-night complimentary hotel stay during METALCON 2024, with a full access pass to the show at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta and access to two in-depth workshops. 

Additional contributions to the fund can be made before, during and after the show or at The Deck, located by registration, just inside the exhibit hall, where members of show management will be available to meet supporters.  

For more information on how to donate, visit metalcon.com.