CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2017: Where Imagination Comes to Life

Every three years, the excitement builds as another CONEXPO-CON/AGG approaches. North America’s largest trade show will encompass 2.5 million sq. ft. of exhibit space, feature 2,500+ exhibitors and likely host well over 100,000 attendees from March 7 to 11 in Las Vegas.

CONEXPO-CON/AGG is an international stage for all the latest and greatest equipment, technology and materials solutions for the construction industry. This year’s theme, “Imagine What’s Next”, centers around innovation. It seems especially fitting given the leaps the industry has taken in recent years. Construction equipment is quickly shifting from a period of commonality in machines and systems typical of a mature market, to an evolutionary phase encompassing sophisticated engine, electronic, computing and other technologies that are revolutionizing design, widening distinctions between products and redefining how construction projects are completed.

Numerous construction equipment suppliers have already hinted at significant product launches at this year’s show. Innovations in both design and function, stemming in large part from the advanced electronics and systems integration required to meet emissions regulations, continue to emerge on the market. Manufacturers exhibiting at CONEXPO-CON/AGG will showcase critical advancements that will further set their products apart and add value for end users. What makes this even more exciting is the realization that they are just beginning to scratch the surface of what’s possible.

In addition to production models of equipment, we’re also likely to see other forms of technologies in the Tech Experience pavilion, which is being introduced at the show. The 75,000-sq.-ft. pavilion is dedicated solely to showcasing new construction innovations and emerging technologies that will drive change and improvement across the industry.

As at MINExpo last fall, expect to get an inside look into the world of autonomous equipment and the possibilities it offers to improve safety, efficiency and productivity, particularly in repetitive, production-oriented tasks on construction sites and in aggregate operations. Watch for further introductions of hybrid and other advanced power system technology intended to boost fuel efficiency, enhance performance and address sustainability requirements on projects. Anticipate learning about further developments in cloud-based fleet management systems, drones, augmented and virtual reality, etc., as well as how such tools can apply to current and future management of equipment and processes on sites.

Also likely to be found in both the Tech Experience and on the show floor are concept vehicles and equipment representing what’s possible in the future. Here’s hoping for a glimpse inside the imaginations of the brightest minds in construction equipment design as they share their vision of what may lie ahead.

We look forward to sharing these experiences with you at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2017, or you can experience them online via our daily coverage at ForConstructionPros.com/conexpo.