With technology driving both end user interests and product development paths, mobile equipment has entered a new era. As construction contractors face challenges such as supply chain volatility, skilled labor shortages and rising material costs, technologies like automation, connectivity and electrification become more readily available as contractors continue to seek solutions. For OEMs, key challenges include integrating these advanced technologies, meeting strict environmental regulations, managing high research and development costs, and ensuring equipment reliability.
To remain competitive, many OEMs are investing in AI-driven inventory systems, upgrading digital infrastructure, and focusing on specialized, eco-friendly machinery. Additionally, construction remains a high-risk operating environment, elevating the demand for safer, more reliable equipment and systems, while productivity suffers due to fragmented workflows, rework and inconsistent adoption of modern technologies.
In response, the industry is increasingly turning to technology as a primary lever for productivity, safety and efficiency, creating new expectations for OEMs and their component partners.
Digital tools, such as connected sensors, telematics, automation, machine control, BIM integration and others, are gaining traction as contractors seek equipment that delivers actionable data, improves uptime, and integrates seamlessly into digital jobsite workflows. Owners and large contractors are driving this shift by requiring real-time data visibility and digital deliverables, prompting OEMs to embed smarter, more connected components into their machines. While adoption varies by contractor size and market segment, momentum is clearly building, particularly among large and technology-forward firms.
Against this backdrop, construction technology will take center stage at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, underscoring the industry’s appetite for innovation. The largest construction trade show in North America features 2,000 exhibitors, and expects to draw more than 100,000 attendees. The show offers 150 education sessions, many of which are focused on equipment innovation, automation, connectivity and productivity-driving technologies. For engineers, product development teams and manufacturers, the show offers a critical opportunity to align with OEM partners, understand evolving customer demands, and showcase solutions that enable smarter, safer and more productive machines.
For a deeper dive into industry insights, breaking news and video coverage from the show, check out OEM Off-Highway's Big Show Guide and visit oemoffhighway.com/conexpo.
