Chicago Build 2026 Agenda Highlights Tech, Data Centers, and Midwest Growth

Chicago Build 2026 returns to McCormick Place on October 28 and 29, bringing together 30,000+ AEC and built environment professionals for two days of insights, networking, product discovery and business opportunities.

Following the launch of registration earlier this year, attention is now turning to the 2026 agenda, with sessions exploring the technologies, projects and market shifts shaping construction, design and development across Chicago and the wider Midwest.

As the Midwest continues to see major investment across construction, real estate, infrastructure, data centers and building technology, Chicago Build offers a timely platform to connect with the people and companies driving that growth.

Agenda Highlights

This year’s conference program will feature 450+ speakers across 9 tracks, alongside AIA CES-accredited workshops and content focused on AI, digital construction, data centers, automation, real estate, sustainability, HVACR, fire safety and the future of the Midwest.

Sessions Not To Miss Include:

Keeping Up with AI: The Growing Demand of Data Centers | October 28, 3 PM
Construction Tech Trends and Technologies to Watch in 2027 | October 28, 10 AM
Robots, AI & Reality: The Pros and Cons of Construction Automation | October 29, 3 PM

Speakers taking the stage include Bill Dunaway, Senior Director of Data Engineering and Operations at Clayco; Julide Bozoglu, Director, Technology at Goettsch Partners; Mayank Sharma, Director, Virtual Design and Construction at Mazzetti; Jennifer Hesser, Operations Manager at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill; and Dale Lewis, Director of Development, Data Centers and Mission Critical at The Boldt Company.

Exhibiting at Chicago Build

The exhibition floor will feature 350+ exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services and technologies for construction, design, engineering, real estate and the wider built environment.

Exhibiting companies include Autodesk, Autocall, Ferguson Enterprises, Kingspan, KIDDE, Mitsubishi, TradeKart, Premier Construction Software, Viega, Houzz, KingSpan and more.

For companies looking to reach the Midwest’s built environment market, Chicago Build offers direct access to contractors, architects, engineers, developers, real estate professionals, building owners, government representatives, and key decision-makers seeking new solutions, partners, and project support.

Exhibiting opportunities are available for technology providers, product manufacturers, consultants, suppliers and service providers looking to build visibility and generate leads across the Midwest’s AEC market.

What Visitors Can Expect

Visitors can explore dedicated zones for AI and Digital Construction, HVACR, and Fire Safety and Security, alongside AIA CES-accredited workshops, the Architect’s Hub, Start-Up Zone, exclusive networking events and the Festival of Construction.

Register and Exhibit

Tickets are free when registered in advance. Tickets will be $99 onsite, so attendees must register before October 28 to secure their complimentary ticket.

Register for your ticket: https://forms.reg.buzz/chicago-build-expo-2026/builtworlds

For exhibiting opportunities, visit: https://www.chicagobuildexpo.com/why-exhibit