The first annual Bench Jewelers Conference & Expo will be held April 23-25, at the Sheraton Chicago Northwest Hotel & Conference Center in Arlington Heights, Ill., and will include workshops, seminars, demonstrations, networking opportunities, and an exhibitor show. Admission to the exhibit floor on Saturday and Sunday is free with advanced registration or $10 at the door. A nominal fee will be charged for the educational conference on Friday.

An all-day educational conference will begin the weekend events on Friday April 23. This will include seminars, workshops, and a panel discussion. Conference speakers include: Jurgen Maerz, Blain Lewis, Wayne Emery, Bob Staley, Gerry Lewy, Steve Satow, Chuck Koehler, Joe Lovato, and Liz Brehmer. Topics will include: CAD-CAM, stone setting, jewelry repair, laser welding, fabrication, and casting. On April 24 and 25 a Suppliers Expo will include industry suppliers of tools and equipment, findings, precious metals, refining services, gemstones and diamonds, continuing education, and other trade services.

For more information, log onto www.bwsimon.com/conference.