As CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 approaches, the massive trade show is evolving to reflect a construction industry facing growing workforce pressures, rapid technological change and heightened expectations around productivity and safety. While equipment remains at the core of the show, organizers are placing increased emphasis on leadership, workforce development and innovation as critical drivers of long-term success for contractors and fleet managers.
Dana Wuesthoff, show director for CONEXPO-CON/AGG, offers insight into how the 2026 event is being shaped to meet those demands. From new content platforms like the Ground Breakers Stage to expanded educational programming and enhanced attendee planning tools, Wuesthoff discusses what’s new for 2026, the trends expected to dominate the show floor and how CONEXPO-CON/AGG continues to adapt to better serve the full scope of the construction industry.
CONEXPO-CON/AGG Show Director Dana Wuesthoff also serves as vice president of Exhibitions Data & Technology Integration at Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).CONEXPO-CON/AGG
Q. What are the biggest changes or new additions attendees will see at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 compared to the last show?
One of the most noticeable additions for 2026 is a stronger focus on leadership, workforce and innovation through new content platforms, including the Ground Breakers Stage. This stage is designed to elevate conversations beyond equipment and into the issues shaping the future of construction. Across the show, attendees will also experience more interactive, experience-driven programming that connects real-world challenges with practical solutions contractors can apply on the job.
Q. What can we expect to see on the show floor in terms of size, number of exhibitors and representation?
CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 will again bring together the full scope of the global construction industry, with thousands of exhibitors representing equipment, technology, components and services. What stands out this year is how closely technology and workforce solutions are integrated into the show floor. Exhibitors are not only showcasing machines, but also demonstrating how those machines help crews work more efficiently, improve safety and address ongoing labor challenges.
Q. What trends or technologies do you expect to have the strongest presence at this year’s show?
Technology that helps contractors do more with fewer people will be a major focus. Attendees can expect strong representation of automation, electrification, advanced machine controls, telematics and data-driven jobsite tools. There is also growing emphasis on technologies that shorten learning curves and make equipment easier to operate, directly supporting workforce recruitment, training and retention.
Q. What new areas are planned, and what can attendees expect from those stages or experiences?
The Ground Breakers Stage is a key addition for 2026 and will serve as a central platform for forward-looking conversations. Programming will feature industry leaders and outside voices discussing workforce development, technology adoption and business transformation. In addition, new weekend interactive workshops and learning spaces are designed to provide practical takeaways, particularly for small and mid-sized contractors navigating rapid change.
Q. Which sessions or sections do you anticipate being most in demand?
Workforce-related sessions consistently draw strong interest, and that demand continues to grow. Topics such as attracting and retaining talent, improving jobsite safety and using technology to address labor shortages are expected to be among the most popular. Sessions connected to the Ground Breakers Stage that link technology trends to real business outcomes are also expected to see strong attendance.
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Q. What improvements or new services are planned to make it easier for contractors and fleet managers to navigate such a large event?
Organizers continue to invest in tools that help attendees plan their time and find what matters most to their business. Enhanced digital planning resources, clearer content tracks and improved wayfinding are all part of that effort. There is also a stronger focus on curated experiences that help contractors connect equipment, technology and workforce solutions more efficiently.
Q. What can you share about this year’s schedule? Are there new networking events, keynote formats or special programs?
The 2026 schedule is intentionally designed to deliver high-value programming throughout the entire week, including Friday and Saturday, when many attendees are still actively on site. In addition to expanded keynote-style programming and new session formats, the Ground Breakers Stage anchors conversations around leadership, workforce and technology across multiple days.
Friday and Saturday feature several focused programs that provide more targeted opportunities to learn and connect. EmpowerHER creates space for discussion around workforce inclusion, leadership and career development. Shop Talks and Walks bring education directly onto the show floor, allowing attendees to see equipment and solutions in action. The Small Business Conference is designed to address the specific challenges faced by smaller contractors, with sessions focused on growth, operations and workforce management.
By offering these programs later in the week, CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 allows attendees to dive deeper into the topics that matter most to their business after spending time on the show floor, creating a more balanced schedule that maximizes learning, networking and return on investment.
Q. Sustainability has become both a trend and a priority across the industry. How is CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 addressing sustainability?
Sustainability is addressed both in how the show is planned and in the content presented on the show floor. CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 highlights equipment and technologies that improve efficiency, reduce emissions and support long-term workforce and business resilience. Sustainability is positioned as a practical business consideration that ties directly to productivity and competitiveness.
Q. With Las Vegas continuing to expand its offerings, how is the show leveraging those upgrades to enhance the attendee experience?
Ongoing investments in transportation, venues and hospitality in Las Vegas support a smoother experience for attendees. These improvements make it easier to move around the show, schedule meetings and take advantage of networking opportunities, while helping CONEXPO-CON/AGG deliver an event that matches the scale and complexity of the industry it serves.
Q. For contractors and fleet managers weighing the cost of attending, what are the biggest return-on-investment drivers for 2026?
The value of attending CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 comes from direct access to solutions that impact productivity, workforce stability and long-term competitiveness. Contractors and fleet managers can compare equipment and technology side by side, learn how peers are addressing labor challenges and hear directly from industry leaders through platforms like the Ground Breakers Stage. The insights and connections gained at the show continue to pay off long after the event ends.
