Top North American Manufacturing Conferences to Attend in 2026
Why Manufacturing Conferences Still Matter in 2026
In a rapidly evolving industry driven by reshoring, AI-powered automation, and supply chain resilience, staying informed isn’t just beneficial — it’s essential. Manufacturing conferences remain one of the best ways to gain insights, explore new technologies, and forge partnerships that can future-proof your business.
Whether you’re a plant manager, engineer, or executive, these 2026 conferences across North America offer opportunities to learn, network, and stay ahead of the curve.
1. IMTS (International Manufacturing Technology Show)
📅 September 14–19, 2026
📍 Chicago, IL
🔗 www.imts.com
Focus: Advanced manufacturing technologies, automation, machine tools
Why Attend:
IMTS is the largest and most influential manufacturing event in North America, featuring 2,000+ exhibitors and hundreds of live technology demonstrations. Attendees can explore breakthroughs in smart manufacturing, digital twins, additive manufacturing, and more.
Ideal for: Manufacturers, engineers, and technology buyers seeking next-generation production tools and insights.
2. FABTECH 2026
📅 November 2026 (Exact dates TBD)
📍 Las Vegas, NV
🔗 www.fabtechexpo.com
Focus: Metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing
Why Attend:
FABTECH is where innovation meets application. This event combines hands-on demos, education sessions, and workforce development discussions tailored for fabrication professionals. Expect new tools, robotics, and software transforming metal manufacturing.
Ideal for: Fabricators, welders, and plant managers looking to modernize production processes.
3. AeroDef Manufacturing 2026
📅 March 2026 (Exact dates TBD)
📍 Long Beach, CA
🔗 www.aerodefevent.com
Focus: Aerospace and defense manufacturing
Why Attend:
AeroDef is the go-to event for the aerospace and defense supply chain, featuring OEMs, tier suppliers, and military representatives. Key topics include additive manufacturing, composites, precision machining, and cyber-secure production.
Ideal for: Aerospace engineers, defense contractors, and manufacturers working in high-spec production environments.
4. Smart Manufacturing Experience 2026
📅 June 2026 (Exact dates TBD)
📍 Pittsburgh, PA
🔗 www.smartmanufacturingexperience.com
Focus: Digital transformation, IIoT, AI, robotics
Why Attend:
As Industry 4.0 continues to evolve, this event bridges emerging digital tools with real-world implementation. Attendees can expect case studies on AI, robotics integration, and connected factory technologies.
Ideal for: Innovators and decision-makers leading digital transformation in manufacturing.
5. The Manufacturing Summit (NAM)
📅 Spring 2026 (Exact dates TBD)
📍 Washington, DC
🔗 www.nam.org
Focus: Policy, economic outlook, industrial strategy
Why Attend:
Hosted by the National Association of Manufacturers, this summit brings together U.S. industry leaders to address policy, workforce, and competitiveness. It’s a must-attend for executives navigating economic and regulatory change.
Ideal for: CEOs, policymakers, and manufacturing executives shaping long-term strategy.
6. PACK EXPO International 2026
📅 October 2026 (Exact dates TBD)
📍 Chicago, IL
🔗 www.packexpointernational.com
Focus: Packaging innovations, automation, production efficiency
Why Attend:
PACK EXPO connects the worlds of manufacturing and packaging, spotlighting cutting-edge automation, sustainability, and design solutions. With thousands of exhibitors, it’s a key stop for companies in CPG, food & beverage, and industrial production.
Ideal for: Manufacturers optimizing production, packaging, or distribution processes.
7. WESTEC / EASTEC (SME Events)
📅 EASTEC: Spring 2026 – Springfield, MA
📅 WESTEC: Fall 2026 – Long Beach, CA
🔗 www.sme.org
Focus: Precision manufacturing, machining, and automation
Why Attend:
These regional SME events spotlight machining technology, precision manufacturing, and industrial innovation. Expect live equipment demonstrations, supplier showcases, and strong local networking opportunities.
Ideal for: Job shops, contract manufacturers, and engineers seeking regional innovation updates.
8. MODEX 2026
📅 March 9–12, 2026
📍 Atlanta, GA
🔗 www.modexshow.com
Focus: Supply chain, logistics, automation
Why Attend:
While MODEX focuses on logistics and supply chain innovation, it’s increasingly critical for manufacturers aiming to modernize production flows, automate fulfillment, and enhance efficiency through robotics and AI.
Ideal for: Operations and supply chain professionals in manufacturing, logistics, and distribution.
9. Advanced Manufacturing Minneapolis 2026
📅 October 2026 (Exact dates TBD)
📍 Minneapolis, MN
🔗 www.advancedmanufacturingminn.com
Focus: Medtech, materials, design-to-production
Why Attend:
This event blends medical device innovation, materials science, and precision engineering. It’s a must for manufacturers in medtech, aerospace, and high-tolerance components.
Ideal for: Design engineers, R&D specialists, and advanced manufacturers in high-tech sectors.
10. PTDA Industry Summit 2026
📅 October 2026 (Exact dates TBD)
📍 Location TBD (Rotates annually)
🔗 www.ptda.org
Focus: Power transmission and motion control
Why Attend:
This event gathers leaders in mechanical power transmission, motion control, and industrial automation. Known for its high-quality networking, PTDA’s summit connects OEMs, distributors, and manufacturers across North America.
Ideal for: Motion control engineers, distributors, and OEM decision-makers.
Final Thoughts
From smart factories to aerospace precision, North America’s manufacturing ecosystem is thriving — and these events provide the best vantage point to stay informed, inspired, and connected.
Whether you’re seeking new technologies, supplier partnerships, or industry insights, attending one or more of these top manufacturing conferences in 2026 can give you a real competitive edge.
