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Must-Visit Booths at IMTS 2026
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Frank Smith
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Read MoreIMTS 2026
Dates: September 14–19, 2026
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Every two years, the manufacturing industry gathers in Chicago for IMTS (The International Manufacturing Technology Show). Hosted by our industry partner, AMT – The Association for Manufacturing Technology, IMTS serves as the destination for manufacturers seeking the latest innovations in automation, machining, workforce development, digital transformation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Whether you're a plant manager looking to improve productivity, a manufacturing executive evaluating new technologies, or a workforce development leader focused on closing skills gaps, IMTS offers an opportunity to see the future of manufacturing in action.
With thousands of exhibitors and hundreds of technology demonstrations, it can be difficult to decide where to spend your time. Here are six must-visit destinations at IMTS 2026.
1. FANUC
FANUC continues to be one of the most influential innovators in industrial automation and robotics. Their booth is always among the busiest on the show floor, featuring live demonstrations of robotic systems, collaborative robots (cobots), machine tending applications, vision systems, and advanced automation solutions. Attendees will gain valuable insight into how robotics can be integrated into both high-volume and high-mix manufacturing environments.
Why Visit:
- Industrial robotics and cobot demonstrations
- AI-enabled automation solutions
- Flexible automation for manufacturers of all sizes
2. MSC Industrial Supply Co.
As one of North America's leading distributors of metalworking and industrial products, MSC Industrial Supply provides more than cutting tools and MRO supplies. The company has evolved into a strategic manufacturing partner focused on operational efficiency, process improvement, and productivity optimization.
At IMTS, MSC often showcases innovative tooling solutions, inventory management systems, machining optimization strategies, and workforce support resources to help manufacturers reduce costs and improve performance.
Why Visit:
- Advanced tooling solutions
- Productivity improvement programs
- Metalworking expertise and process consulting
3. Parker Hannifin
Parker Hannifin is a global leader in motion and control technologies that power modern manufacturing operations. Their solutions touch nearly every aspect of industrial production—from hydraulics and pneumatics to motion control, filtration, and industrial automation.
Manufacturers seeking smarter, more connected operations should spend time exploring Parker innovations focused on efficiency, reliability, and digital integration.
Why Visit:
- Aerospace and automotive
- Motion and control technologies
- Smart manufacturing solutions
- Energy-efficient automation technologies
4. Pratt & Whitney Measurement Systems
Pratt & Whitney Measurement Systems brings a highly specialized focus to IMTS as a global supplier of ultra-precision metrology instruments, inspection gaging systems, length measuring machines, and XRF spectrometers. For manufacturers where accuracy, repeatability, and quality control are mission-critical, the booth offers a closer look at technologies designed to support precise measurement in both production and calibration environments.
Their measurement systems help manufacturers verify part accuracy, reduce variation, and maintain tighter tolerances, supporting stronger quality control and more consistent production outcomes.
Why Visit:
- Ultra-precision metrology and inspection technologies
- Gaging systems, length measurement, and calibration solutions
- Quality control tools for high-precision production environments
5. Tooling U-SME
Tooling U-SME delivers versatile, competency-based learning and development solutions to the manufacturing community, working with thousands of organizations, including more than half of all Fortune 500® manufacturers and nearly 1,000 educational institutions. At IMTS 2026, visit Tooling U-SME to see how these solutions help manufacturers build workforce capability through practical training, skills development, certifications, and workforce consulting.
Attendees can experience a live demo of the Manufacturing Training Workstations as one example of how Tooling U-SME connects hands-on learning with the skills needed in modern manufacturing environments. Stop by the booth and enter to win manufacturing workforce consulting services from the Tooling U-SME Talent & Workforce Services team.
Why Visit:
- Manufacturing training and workforce development solutions
- New hands-on Manufacturing Training Workstations
- Online classes, upskilling solutions, and workforce pipeline programs
6. SME at the Smartforce Student Summit
One of the most inspiring experiences at IMTS is the Smartforce Student Summit. The Summit introduces students, educators, parents, and emerging talent to the exciting career opportunities available in modern manufacturing.
Visitors can see firsthand how the next generation is being exposed to advanced manufacturing technologies through hands-on experiences, career exploration activities, and engagement with industry leaders.
For manufacturers concerned about future talent pipelines, the Smartforce Student Summit demonstrates how industry collaboration can help build the workforce of tomorrow.
Why Visit:
- Explore workforce pipeline initiatives
- Connect with educators and workforce partners
- Support manufacturing career awareness efforts
IMTS 2026 is where manufacturers evaluate new technologies, solve production challenges, and see what's next in automation, robotics, digital manufacturing, and workforce development.
With thousands of exhibits across the show floor, these six destinations are a practical starting point for engineers and manufacturing leaders looking to maximize their time and identify solutions they can take back to their organizations.
See you in Chicago this September.
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