IMTS 2026: The West's Largest Manufacturing Show Goes Full AI

The International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago, set to take place from September 14-19, 2026, has solidified its position as the West's premier manufacturing event by embracing artificial intelligence (AI) across every aspect of the exhibition. With over 89,000 attendees from 150 countries, 1.2 million square feet of exhibit space, and $2.19 billion in U.S. manufacturing technology orders (up 28.9% year-over-year), the show clearly demonstrates the industry's rapid investment in AI-driven solutions.

This year's IMTS features the Industrial AI Arena, showcasing 32 exhibitors concentrated on AI-driven manufacturing. In addition, Sandia National Laboratories will demonstrate government-led research and development efforts. An entire day will be dedicated to the Industrial AI Conference, examining topics such as predictive maintenance deployment, edge vs. cloud decision frameworks, quality inspection using computer vision, and data readiness assessments.

Notably, the 2026 IMTS marks a significant shift in how AI is integrated into the manufacturing floor. Rather than being relegated to a separate track or hall, AI is now woven through every technology sector, including machining, automation, metrology, software, tooling, quality control, additive manufacturing, production planning, and more.

In this year's IMTS, attendees will have the opportunity to visit MetalQuest Unlimited, a 70-person contract manufacturer that has consistently attended every IMTS since 1998. MetalQuest's strategy involves indexing 5-axis CNC machines with automation packages, integrating digital twin technology with Hermle 5-axis machines, and utilizing 20+ Okuma CNCs paired with FANUC robots. This approach allows for unattended operation, resulting in higher utilization, lower labor dependency, and resilient domestic production.

The overall manufacturing PMI reached 53.3% in June, indicating strong growth in the sector. Additionally, the New Orders Index has expanded for six consecutive months, signaling increased investment in AI technology. Companies are no longer just adopting AI; they are leveraging it to gain a competitive edge through local production rather than relying solely on cost advantages. This shift in focus to supply chain resilience, rather than just labor costs, highlights the importance of proximity in manufacturing strategies.