Event Preview

By Maggie MacHale

CONEXPO-CON / AGG 2026

In 2023, the event gathered more than 139,000 attendees to showcase the latest and greatest equipment, solutions and technology, and 2026 promises to deliver that same industry-leading experience while introducing innovations and features. With 2,000 exhibitors, 150 educational sessions and after-dark networking opportunities, CONEXPO-CON / AGG is set to be an essential event for the crane and aerial industries.

“ This is where you see how technology, equipment and people are transforming infrastructure, workforce development and community impact,” said Dana Wuesthoff, show director of CONEXPO-CON / AGG.“ It is not just about observing the future. It is about standing in the middle of it and connecting with the industry leaders who are building it.”

Attendees will have the chance to dive into new workshops, explore cutting-edge technologies and connect with peers and industry leaders in both formal and informal settings. From practical hands-on sessions to forward-looking presentations on AI, sustainability and workforce development, the show offers a full spectrum of experiences designed to inform, inspire and spark new ideas for every professional on the jobsite.

Must-Attend Sessions

With 150 sessions, a lineup of innovative new workshops and an exhibitor list spanning pages, planning what to see and when can feel overwhelming— but there are some educational sessions you won’ t want to miss.

Tuesday, March 3

•“ Eyes on Safety: Enhancing Mobile Equipment with Camera Technology”— Speaker: Colton Rhew, national safety manager at Buckner Heavylift Cranes

•“ Safe Mobile Crane Operations in the Vicinity of Power Lines”— Speakers: Brandon Hitch, CEO at The Crane Industry Council of Australia, and Stephanie Wood, director, product safety at Terex Corporation

•“ Ground Bearing Pressure and Your Work Ticket, What Do They Have in Common?”— Speaker: Michael Walsh, president at Dearborn Engineers & Constructors, Inc.

•“ Preparing for Roadside Enforcement of Mobile Crane and Other Special Equipment”— Speaker: Chris Smith, vice president transportation at Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association( SC & RA)

Wednesday, March 4

•“ Reducing Common CMV Over-the- Road Accidents Through Training”— Speaker: Jeffrey Hammons, vice president at JHam Group Consulting

•“ Do You Know What You’ re Doing? Understanding and Complying With Telehandler and Forklift Regulatory Requirements”— Speaker: David Brown, co-training director at International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 14-14B

•“ Crane Inspection: What You Need to Know About Updates to B 30.5”— Speaker: Ray Feidt, corporate inspection / training manager at Stephenson

Equipment, Inc

•“ What’ s the Difference?! Certification vs Certificate vs Qualification vs Competence. Ensuring You’ re in Compliance”— Speaker: Thomas Sicklesteel, CEO at CCO Certification

Thursday, March 5

•“ The Essential Role of a Lift Director and the Responsibilities of Everyone Working With Cranes on a Jobsite”— Speaker: Derek Sather, vice president, risk and safety at Sims Crane & Equipment Co.

•“ Rigging Fundamentals- Below the Hook Lifting”— Speaker: Timothy Klein, principal engineer- structures and fabrication at WireCo

•“ Smart MEWP Selection: The Accessories that Take Safety Further”— Speaker: Tony Groat, North America- regional manager at IPAF- International Powered Access Federation

•“ Planning Load Handling Activities: ASME P30.1 and its Practical Applications”— Speakers: Kevin O’ Neill, chief engineer at Bay Crane Companies, and Mathieu Chaudanson, senior associate and director of mobile crane engineering at Howard I. Shapiro & Associates

Big Fish Exhibitors

Whether you’ re seeking telescopic cranes, truck-mounted hydraulic lifts, mini-crawler cranes or telehandlers, these leading manufacturers( and more) will have their latest equipment on display:

• Liebherr— Global leader in construction equipment, offering a full line of mobile and tower cranes.

• Link-Belt Cranes— U. S.-based expert in

26

January 2026 • www. cranehotline. com