In this first video from CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026, Paul Heney, VP and Editorial Director for Fluid Power World and Design World, and Mary Gannon, Editor-in-Chief for Fluid Power World, report from the massive triennial trade show in Las Vegas. Speaking during the press preview day, they highlight the significance of the massive event for the hydraulics industry, particularly for manufacturers serving off-highway equipment markets such as construction and mining.
Paul notes that this is his 11th ConExpo, while Mary has been to about half as many, underscoring the show’s long-standing importance. With the official exhibition running through Saturday, they preview key themes already emerging from early press events.
Mary emphasizes the growing role of software-enabled technologies in hydraulic systems. After attending presentations from machinery manufacturers, she notes that companies are increasingly integrating software to improve hydraulic system efficiency, controllability, and reliability. Rather than relying solely on mechanical improvements, manufacturers are turning to digital controls and smart systems to optimize machine performance. She predicts that software integration will become an even more prominent trend in mobile hydraulics as the week progresses and in the years ahead.
The conversation also revisits efficiency, a dominant theme at the previous CONEXPO in 2023. While efficiency remains essential — particularly for improving fuel economy and overall machine performance — Mary suggests the industry focus is evolving. After several years of intense emphasis on electrification, which demanded higher efficiency from hydraulic systems, the excitement around electrification has begun to level out. Now, software enablement is emerging as a complementary and potentially more flexible path to achieving performance gains.
Filed Under: Industry News
