IMTS 2026 Set to Showcase Manufacturing Innovations in Chicago

The International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2026 is scheduled to take place from September 14-19, 2026, at McCormick Place in Chicago. The event aims to bring together various manufacturing technologies, ideas, and professionals.

Organizers suggest that the six-day show offers opportunities for businesses to explore advancements that could influence their operations for years to come. The upcoming event is anticipated to feature breakthrough technologies, reflecting current investments and renewed interest in U.S. manufacturing.

Focus on AI and Automation at Scale Artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and digital manufacturing solutions are expected to be central themes at IMTS 2026. Companies such as Amazon Web Services (booth #236217), Google Cloud (booth #236709), and Microsoft (booth #236609) are confirmed to return to the Automation Sector, accelerated by SPS – Smart Production Solutions. They are expected to demonstrate practical applications that can enhance performance and precision in manufacturing.

Exhibitors across all ten technology sectors are also integrating AI into various processes, including:

Automatic toolpath generation
Production schedule optimization
Data analysis for improved machine uptime
Enhanced vision systems and inspection
Strengthening supply chain resilience

For the first time, IMTS will include a dedicated AI Arena and an Industrial AI Conference, underscoring the expanding integration of AI across manufacturing.

Real-World Manufacturing Results Highlighted The article highlights examples of manufacturers who have reported positive outcomes from previous IMTS attendance. Tom Bassett, owner of Pro-Cam Services LLC in Michigan, shared that purchasing a DN Solutions (booth #338919) 5-axis DVF 5000 at IMTS 2024 reportedly reduced milling time on a rocket part from 72 hours to 20. An earlier IMTS acquisition, Zoller’s (booth #432018) presetter and heat shrinker, is credited with boosting his company's revenue by over $1 million.

Chris Basgall, CEO of Catamount Machine Works in Florida, noted that High QA’s (booth #134500) auto-ballooning software, discovered at IMTS 2024, reduced their document preparation time by 80%.

U.S. Manufacturing Climate The context for IMTS 2026 includes a growing U.S. manufacturing economy. With personal consumption expenditures in the United States nearing $19 trillion, there's a trend towards localized production.

Douglas K. Woods, president of AMT, commented on the current economic environment: "We have seen more than $2 trillion in manufacturing investment this year, and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act includes tax policies that encourage more investment. With smart policy, global partnerships, and a likely drop in interest rates, the business climate heading into IMTS 2026 will be stronger than ever."

Planning for IMTS 2026 Attendees are encouraged to use the free Show Planner account to organize their visit, bookmarking exhibitors and presentations, exploring digital showrooms, and connecting with company representatives. The IMTS 2026 floor plan is available to help map routes across McCormick Place.

New additions and features for IMTS 2026 include:

The Additive Sector, accelerated by Formnext, will be located next to the Metal Removal Sector in the South Building.
A new AI Arena, adjacent to AMT’s Emerging Technology Center in the North Building, will showcase AI applications.
The Smartforce Student Summit, on Level 1 of the North Building, will focus on inspiring future talent.
Other attractions include the ETC, the IMTS+ Main Stage, the Creators Lounge for manufacturing influencers, and an expanded program from Gardner Business Media targeting job shops.
The Miles for Manufacturing 5K event will return to support STEM education.
A comprehensive conference lineup, including the new Industrial AI Conference and the flagship IMTS 2026 Conference, will offer insights on technology adoption.

Covering over 1 million square feet of exhibits, IMTS 2026 aims to provide a platform for discovering new tools, machines, and expert guidance. The event is scheduled for September 14-19, 2026, at McCormick Place in Chicago. Registration is available at IMTS.com/Register.