2026 SC & RA Crane & Rigging Workshop
Left: Bigelow Safety exhibited for the first time, displaying The Buddie System and its ability to provide a direct, instant safety alert signal to the crane operator. Middle: Cherry Picker Pete’ s booth introduced attendees to the organization’ s efforts to connect children with crane and rigging safety, education, and future career opportunities in the industry. Right: Colorado Crane Operator School and CraneQualified exhibited for the first time at the 2026 SC & RA Crane & Rigging Workshop, connecting with industry professionals on operator training and qualification tracking.
president of Bigelow Safety, noted that there was genuine interest in learning about new solutions from the attendees.
“ As a first-time exhibitor, we were impressed by how willing people were to stop, ask questions, share their own experiences, and have meaningful conversations about safety,” Marquis said.
For many exhibitors, the audience made a strong impression. Robert Gowder, account manager at Vertical Supply Group, reflected on how smaller shows can sometimes vary in their value to exhibitors.
“ Relatively smaller shows can be a gamble – sometimes they’ re a ghost town and sometimes a fantastic opportunity,” Gowder noted.“ This was the latter. I felt we encountered a friendly and knowledgeable crowd.”
Left: Commercial Credit Group, a heavy equipment financing company, was another first-time exhibitor at the SC & RA Crane & Rigging Workshop, connecting with attendees to discuss equipment financing and business needs. Above: Conversations about Infinity Mattz at the 2026 SC & RA Crane & Rigging Workshop focused on mat weight, strength, and the challenges of working on difficult jobsites.
Conversations Taking Place
In such an illuminating atmosphere, it can be easy to find important discussions taking place. Beyond the exhibit floor, industry professionals exchanged ideas, discussed shared challenges, and considered where the industry is headed next.
Workforce Development
While the crane and rigging industry continues to grapple with workforce shortages, discussions focused on attracting new workers, developing skills, and retaining experienced professionals.
The Labor Committee Meeting reviewed its labor-focused SWOT analysis, including recruitment pipelines, skills development, and career progression.
For Russ Gallivan, director of operations at Colorado Crane Operator School and CraneQualified, workforce concerns surfaced even in
Franna, a Terex brand, used the workshop to discuss its U. S. market presence and pick-and-carry crane lineup.
Vertical Supply Group’ s booth in the 2026 SC & RA Crane & Rigging Workshop exhibit center focused on Liftin Gear slings and Sterling rigging ropes.
www. cranehotline. com • November 2026 37