I have an embarrassing admission: I haven’t been to the CONEXPO-CON/AGG trade show since 2017. In fact, at the 2017 show, when it co-hosted with IFPE (The International Fluid Power Exhibition), I represented Canada at the IEOC (NFPA’s Industry & Economic Conference), where, as the Director of Communications for the Canadian Fluid Power Association, I highlighted the state of the Canadian fluid power market at the time.
Nine years is a long time, especially given the acceleration of technology that has swept past Industry 4.0 and into artificial intelligence, so I’m excited to see what new and exciting technologies are on display at this triennial event. What won’t be there, unfortunately, is the aforementioned IFPE component of the show. According to NFPA President and CEO Eric Lanke, construction at the Las Vegas Convention Center (ironically enough) squeezed IFPE out due to the growth of that very same construction industry.
Regardless, I’ll be there, so keep an eye out for the big, bald Canadian with a Higginson Equipment polo, despite the absence of the IFPE. There’s just too much to see for me to risk missing another three years, and if you’re a fluid power professional, I recommend you attend as well. The show is more than cranes and cement trucks, so let’s break down what you need to know and why you should attend.
Of course, the primary purpose (despite all the great reasons to visit Las Vegas) is to see the exposition itself, especially when you need to pitch this event to your boss as more than just a free gambling getaway. The show has a new format for keynotes, with its Ground Breakers stage in West Hall 108-110, so you can expect to learn the latest from talks on AI, sustainability, and connected smart systems.
On the education tip, look out for a series of workshops offering real-world, hands-on experiences to help you build your construction and business foundation. You can register for one- or two-day events covering equipment maintenance, small business, and the EmpowerHER workshop for women in construction to build their leadership skills, network, and garner strategies to advance their careers.
It goes without saying that if you’re in the market for machinery or components, this is the place to be, as over 2,000 manufacturers are exhibiting at the show. Personally, I just love checking out hydraulic machinery — if you’re new to fluid power, this show is a must for you to see how and where hydraulics are used on machinery. Mobile machines wear their muscles on the outside of their skeletons, so it’s really easy to see pumps, motors, cylinders, and valves.
I hope I didn’t let your hopes down when I said IFPE was no longer part of this show, because there are still plenty of fluid power manufacturers. Head over to the South Hall, where you can find all the big players in the game; all the familiar fluid power names, plus a bunch of the small, specialty manufacturers. According to my quick headcount, there are around a hundred of your favorite fluid power brands, so don’t think you’re only seeing harvesters and front-end loaders at this show.
Finally, don’t forget that you’re in Las Vegas! When you register on the show’s website, you can also get a deal on a partner hotel or resort. Prices vary widely depending on whether you want the carnival feel of Circus Circus or the luxury aesthetic of Bellagio. The good news is that you’re eligible for Marriott Bonvoy points if you’re so inclined, which is why we’re staying at New York New York (Platinum Elite, for the win).
Once you’re registered for the show and nearing the date, be sure to download the Vegas Unlocked All Access Pass, which is included with your show badge. You get discounts on dozens of shows, restaurants, attractions, and the Vegas monorail. So whether you’re into Cirque du Soleil or Magic Mike, you can get your tickets at up to 20% off.
Despite the absence of the IFPE component, I’m excited for this show. I’m excited to see all the new technologies and the direction equipment manufacturers are taking in this current climate of artificial intelligence. If you see me, get my attention and say, “hi.”
Filed Under: News
