CONEXPO-CON/AGG Show Director Dana Wuesthoff encourages attendees to come prepared and come curious.
CONEXPO-CON/AGG
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.”
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