CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 is breaking new ground with an immersive, future-focused experience

Every three years, the construction industry converges on Las Vegas for an event that sets the tone for the years ahead. In 2026, CONEXPO-CON/AGG will return with a
renewed focus on innovation, connectivity, and collaboration, embodying its theme of "Breaking New Ground."

According to Dana Wuesthoff, show director for CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, attendees should expect a very new experience. "2026 will deliver the most immersive and future-focused CONEXPO-CON/AGG that we have ever held," she says. "Attendees will see not only equipment and technology, but also be able to stand inside the future of construction and experience people, ideas, and all the innovations that are shaping it."

She emphasizes that the show's goal is not simply to display what's next, but to invite attendees to be a part of it. "We are designing it to help attendees connect with leaders, technology developers, and peers who are influencing where the industry is heading," says Wuesthoff. "We're inviting attendees to not just watch change from the sidelines, but be part of the momentum that is driving [change]."

The groundbreakers stage will spotlight innovation 

A key addition to the 2026 show is the Ground Breakers Keynote Stage, a dynamic new format designed to showcase the individuals and companies driving change in the construction industry. "The Ground Breakers stage is going to spotlight individuals and companies who are transforming construction and the world that we live in," says Wuesthoff. "This is where attendees will be able to see how leaders are using innovation, technology, and new approaches to improve communities, build infrastructure faster and more sustainably, attract talent, and really just shape the global future of our industry."

The Ground Breakers programming will focus on three major themes: AI at Work, Sustainability, and Connected Systems. For Canadian contractors, these themes will be particularly relevant as the country continues advancing its own innovation and emissions targets in heavy construction.

Build connections in the community zone 

Making its return is the Community Zone, an attendee-favourite space that debuted at the 2023 show. "The community zone was created as a dedicated space for people to meet up with one another, for rest and respite, to build relationships, and to share experiences," says Wuesthoff.

Unlike a traditional booth or exhibitor area, the Community Zone is part lounge, part networking hub and is intentionally casual and open. "It's where you can meet peers, innovators, and industry leaders. You can hear casual conversations, connect with people, listen to what's going on, and get your day organized before you go," explains Wuesthoff.

Hands-on learning 

Wuesthoff and her team are placing greater emphasis on learning through doing in 2026. Alongside nearly 200 traditional education sessions, the show will feature three new hands-on workshops tailored to specific audiences: women in construction, small business owners, and fleet maintenance professionals.

"We're really focused on bringing transformative learning and hands-on opportunities right to the show floor when possible," says Wuesthoff. "We want attendees to see forward-thinking solutions in action."

Sessions are designed for practical application and are meant to appeal to equipment operators, contractors, and fleet professionals across North America. "Attendees are going to have more opportunities than ever to see and try emerging solutions," says Wuesthoff. "We always share best practices with exhibitors about how to make their presence memorable, and we know people remember hands-on learning."

Advice for attendees

With more than 2,000 exhibitors and over 2.8 million square feet of display space, CONEXPO-CON/AGG is the largest trade show of its kind in North America, and for first-timers it can be overwhelming.

Wuesthoff's advice is simple but essential: "If I could sum it up in one sentence for attendees and how to get the biggest bang for their time and money, it's to come prepared and come curious."

Planning ahead is key to getting the most out of the show. "It's not a show that's ideal to just wander around without a plan," she says. "Make sure you know what you're looking for. But then make sure to leave room for discovery. The beautiful thing about the show is that serendipity might be right around the corner."

Tools for an optimized experience 

To make navigation and scheduling easier, AEM continues to expand its suite of planning tools, including an online exhibitor directory, scheduling resources, and an updated mobile app launching in early 2026.

"We continue to invest heavily in tools that allow attendees to plan and personalize their experience as much as possible," Wuesthoff explains. "Whether that's our online directory, our mobile app, or AI-generated recommendations, it's all designed to help folks plan ahead and find their way once they're at the show."

What's in store for Canadian attendees

AEM expects a strong Canadian presence in Las Vegas, building on high participation from previous years. "We think that Canadian contractors are going to find tremendous value in the show with sessions and technologies related to cold weather construction, electrification, connected fleets, regulatory trends, and infrastructure innovation," says Wuesthoff. "Canada remains a critical part of this industry and this event."

Her advice to Canadian attendees echoes the universal takeaway: plan strategically, but stay open to discovery. "There's something for everyone," she says. "If you are anywhere affiliated with the industry, this is the show for you."

Industry outlook

As the industry continues to evolve, Wuesthoff hopes attendees leave the show inspired by the technology and by the people behind it. "I hope they walk away first of all with a sense of pride because we have an amazing industry and they're part of it," she says. "It's going to be shaped by technology and innovation, but it's also the people that work with it." 

This article originally appeared in the 2025 November/December of Heavy Equipment Guide.