Visitor registration is now open for
IMTS 2026, setting the stage for another landmark edition of North America's largest manufacturing technology exhibition.
Taking place 14-19 September at McCormick Place in Chicago, IMTS (The International Manufacturing Technology Show) will once again bring together the global manufacturing community for six days of innovation, networking, product launches, and technical education.
Held every two years and organised by AMT, IMTS has long been regarded as the premier event for manufacturers looking to invest in new technology, improve productivity, and gain insight into the trends shaping the industry's future. The 2026 edition carries the theme "Achieve the Impossible," reflecting the rapid advances currently taking place across automation, digital manufacturing, artificial intelligence, additive manufacturing, software, and advanced machining.
The show's scale remains one of its defining features. IMTS 2026 is expected to cover more than 1.2ft² of exhibition space and attract around 90,000 visitors and more than 2,000 exhibitors from across the globe. Manufacturers, suppliers, engineers, plant managers, executives and production specialists will gather to explore technologies capable of transforming modern manufacturing operations.
For machine shops and manufacturing businesses, IMTS offers a unique opportunity to compare equipment and solutions side by side. Exhibits will span a wide range of sectors, including metal removal, tooling and workholding, automation, additive manufacturing, software, quality assurance, fabricating and laser technologies, as well as machine components and environmental solutions.
One of the most anticipated areas of the 2026 event will be the continued expansion of automation and AI-driven manufacturing solutions. According to AMT, exhibitors throughout the show will demonstrate how artificial intelligence is being used not only to streamline business decisions but also to optimise manufacturing processes on the shopfloor. Visitors can expect to see practical applications designed to improve programming efficiency, increase productivity and capture valuable operational knowledge for future generations of workers.
Beyond the exhibition halls, IMTS will feature a comprehensive programme of conferences, technical presentations and networking opportunities. Returning attractions include the Smartforce Student Summit, aimed at inspiring the next generation of manufacturing professionals, along with educational sessions focused on emerging technologies and industry best practice.
With registration now available, prospective attendees can begin planning their visit, explore exhibitors online and build personalised show itineraries ahead of September. Early registration rates are currently available, while international visitors, students, educators and media representatives also have dedicated registration options.
As manufacturers continue to navigate skills shortages, supply chain challenges and increasing competitive pressures, IMTS 2026 promises to provide a timely showcase of the technologies and ideas driving the industry's next chapter. For anyone involved in precision engineering, metalworking or advanced manufacturing, Chicago will once again be the place to be this September.