Top Manufacturing Trade Shows in North America (2026 Guide)
A practical 2026 guide to North America’s top manufacturing trade shows, including who should attend and how to plan effectively.
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Trade Show Buzz
December 25, 2023•6 min read
Updated for 2026: This guide targets manufacturing trade shows North America 2026 and helps you shortlist high-impact events faster. Use this page to compare event fit, plan timelines, and prioritize shows that can generate qualified business outcomes.
In 2024, the manufacturing sector is set to host a series of dynamic events, offering professionals a wealth of opportunities for growth, learning, and innovation. Here’s a detailed look at what attendees can expect at these manufacturing trade shows and conferences, followed by a rundown of the key events.
What to Expect at Manufacturing Trade Shows
Networking with Industry Leaders and Peers
Building Connections:
Trade shows are prime venues for building professional networks. Attendees can meet a diverse range of people, from industry veterans to innovators, creating opportunities for collaborations and partnerships.
Exchange of Ideas:
These events facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences among peers, offering insights into different market trends and business strategies.
Engaging in Educational Sessions and Keynote Speeches
Learning from Experts:
Conferences and seminars at these trade shows often feature talks by industry experts, offering valuable insights into the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in manufacturing.
Professional Development:
These sessions provide a platform for continuous learning and professional development, essential for keeping pace with the evolving manufacturing landscape.
Experiencing Product Demonstrations and Technology Showcases
Exhibitors often demonstrate their latest products and technologies, giving attendees a hands-on experience of the newest innovations in the market.
Hands-On Experience:
Product Insights:
These demonstrations provide a deeper understanding of product capabilities and applications, aiding in informed decision-making for businesses.
Discovering Innovation in Various Manufacturing Sectors
Exploring New Trends:
Trade shows showcase innovations across different sectors of manufacturing, from robotics to materials science, allowing attendees to discover new trends and technologies.
Cross-Industry Learning:
By bringing together various sectors under one roof, these events offer a unique opportunity to learn about advancements in different fields and how they intersect.
Exploring Opportunities for Career and Business Growth
Career Advancement: These events are ideal for finding new job opportunities and career paths in the manufacturing sector.
Business Expansion: Companies can explore new markets, products, and strategies for business expansion and staying competitive.
Key Manufacturing Industry Events 2024
Confirmed Events
International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) When: September 9-14 Where: Chicago, IL Event Details: IMTS is a premier global manufacturing technology show that attracts a large audience and features the latest in machine tools, controls, computers, software, components, systems, and processes. Website:https://www.imts.com/
WWETT (Water & Wastewater Equipment, Treatment & Transport Show) When: Conference: January 24-26, Expo Hall: January 25-27 Where: Indianapolis, Indiana Event Details: WWETT is focused on the water industry, showcasing the latest equipment and technologies in water treatment, wastewater management, and transport. Website:https://www.wwettshow.com/en/home.html
American Manufacturing Summit When: March 19-20 Where: Chicago, IL Event Details: This summit gathers industry leaders to discuss critical topics such as manufacturing innovation, efficiency, and technology. It’s a great opportunity for learning and sharing best practices in the field. Website:https://manusummit.com/
FABTECH When: October 15-17 Where: Orlando, FL Event Details: FABTECH is North America’s largest event dedicated to metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing. It offers a comprehensive view of the latest advancements and tools in these areas. Website:https://www.fabtechexpo.com/
Advanced Manufacturing Minneapolis When: October 16-17 Where: Minneapolis Event Details: This event brings together a diverse range of industries, including medtech, robotics, plastics, and packaging, offering a unique perspective on advanced manufacturing techniques and innovations. Website:https://www.advancedmanufacturingminneapolis.com/en/home.html
Connected Manufacturing Forum When: June 25-26 Where: Atlanta, GA Event Details: This forum is a convergence of manufacturing, operations, technology, supply chain, and engineering executives. It’s an excellent platform for exploring the future of connected and smart manufacturing. Website:https://connectedmanufacturing.wbresearch.com/
Automate Show When: May 6-9 Where: Chicago, IL Event Details: The Automate Show is renowned as the largest showcase in North America for robotics and automation technologies. It features the latest trends and applications in these rapidly evolving fields. Website:https://www.automateshow.com/
Additional Events to Watch
In addition to the confirmed events, there are several other noteworthy gatherings that manufacturing professionals should keep on their radar. These events, while not yet confirmed for 2024, have historically been significant in the industry and offer unique perspectives and opportunities. They cater to specialized sectors within manufacturing and provide a deep dive into specific areas like medical manufacturing, industrial automation, advanced materials, and sensor technologies. Keeping an eye on these events and confirming their dates as they are announced will ensure a well-rounded exposure to the manufacturing sector’s latest trends and innovations.
IME West Where: Anaheim, CA Known for showcasing innovations in medical manufacturing, IME West is a hub for medical device and technology sectors.
Automation Fair – Rockwell Automation Where: Boston, MA This fair focuses on industrial automation and showcases the latest solutions from Rockwell Automation.
EASTEC – Society of Manufacturing Engineers Where: West Springfield, MA EASTEC highlights advanced manufacturing technology covering industries such as aerospace, defense, and medical.
CAMX Composites and Advanced Materials Expo Where: Atlanta, GA This expo is a must-visit for those interested in composites and advanced materials used across various industries.
Westec SME Where: Long Beach, CA Westec is a leading California manufacturing trade show, featuring innovations in machine tools, cutting tools, and advanced manufacturing.
Sensors Converge Where: Santa Clara, CA This event focuses on sensor technologies and applications, ideal for professionals in electronics and IoT.
The Powder Show Where: International Powder Bulk Solids – Rosemont, IL The Powder Show is a prominent event for professionals in the powder and bulk solids technology sector.
In conclusion, 2024 promises a range of dynamic and informative events for manufacturing professionals. Whether you’re seeking the latest industry trends, looking to network with peers, or exploring new technologies, these trade shows and conferences offer valuable experiences for everyone involved in the manufacturing sector.
What are the top manufacturing trade shows in North America?
Top events vary by sub-sector: automation, industrial machinery, packaging, and supply chain. Focus on events where buyers from your segment are present.
How many trade shows should a manufacturing brand attend yearly?
Most teams get better ROI from 2–4 well-targeted events than from many low-fit events.
What should first-time exhibitors prepare?
Set clear goals, book meetings in advance, train booth staff, and prepare a post-event follow-up process before the show starts.
