Thinking about attending Automate for the first time? Or are you registered and looking for an idea of what to expect? Well, you're in for a treat! The Association for Advancing Automation (A3), producers of Automate, continue to enhance and expand the show experience every year. The ultimate goal: you leave inspired and empowered to achieve your automation goals. We’re here to help make this happen.
We've packed this guide with insider tips, must-see attractions, and logistical advice to help you navigate the sea of innovations and opportunities waiting for you in Chicago. (Including a guide on where to eat near McCormick Place.)
After reading this guide, you'll know how to prioritize your time, which exhibitors to target, and where to find special features that are most relevant to you. Think of this as your roadmap to Automate excellence!
Jump to exactly what you need:
All about Automate
Experience Automate like a pro
ALL ABOUT AUTOMATE
From a record-breaking 2025 to a must-attend 2026
Automate is THE show for anyone interested in automation. In 2025, we welcomed a record number of registrants and exhibitors. 45,000 people from around the world visited the sold-out show floor that featured more than 900 exhibitors during Automate’s four-day run. See more 2025 highlights!
In 2026, over 1,000 exhibitors will share their automation solutions across 450,000+ square feet in Chicago’s McCormick Place. Expect even more breakthroughs, innovations, and opportunities for automation advancement. Keep an eye on the show schedule as new events are announced.
Automation solutions across nearly every application
Explore leading automation solutions from companies across the globe. These organizations are redefining what’s possible in the automation space — and this is your chance to get a front row seat.
| Additive manufacturing Cameras & smart cameras Controls Conveyors End-of-arm tooling Frame grabbers Industrial IoT Laser equipment & systems Metrology equipment |
Motion control systems Motors Robots Safety products Sensors & feedback devices Software & AI Vision systems 5G technology And more! |
A hub of automation thought leadership
This is your chance to hear from and speak with today’s brightest minds in automation. Meet with leading exhibitors and discuss your unique challenges. Get inspired by powerful keynote speakers. Attend panels and presentations from automation experts to get ready for what’s next.
If you want to level up your experience, consider upgrading your pass to attend the Automate Conference. Yes, it's an additional investment, but the deep-dive sessions and networking opportunities with industry thought leaders are invaluable if you're serious about strengthening your automation knowledge and getting a competitive advantage.
EXPERIENCE AUTOMATE LIKE A PRO
How to navigate our exhibitors
With over 1,000 exhibiting automation companies, it can be hard to see everything in just four days (or less). The key is defining your goals before you even set foot in Chicago.
Are you looking to solve a specific production challenge? Comparing different robot integrators? Exploring what's new in AI, vision systems, or motion control? Curious about simulation software and digital twin technology?
Having clear objectives will help you stay focused once you arrive. If you need help defining your goals, our free automation assessment quiz is a great starting point.
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After you know what you’re seeking, review our exhibitor list to pinpoint your must-visit companies. From there, you can see where their booths are located on the floor plan to map your visit. We recommend dividing the floor plan into sections and tackling different areas each day to avoid walking back and forth across the show floor.
To make planning even easier, use our itinerary builder to customize your schedule and keep track of exhibitors, speakers, and must-see features.
Must-see show experiences
Beyond the many exhibitors on the show floor, you’ll also find educational sessions and events that are completely free with your show badge. Make sure to check out the Automate Show Theater, where industry experts discuss the latest automation trends and advancements via panels, competitions, presentations, and more.
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If you are interested in autonomous mobile robots, stop by the daily AMR Technology Demonstrations. Watch as they navigate real-world scenarios and learn about the benefits of this growing technology. Speaking of product innovations, the Innovation Stage is where cutting-edge solutions make their debut. It's like getting a glimpse into the future of automation.
There are also specially curated events and areas for students and educators. For example, the Education Pavilion is a great place to network with companies and learn about potential career paths. You can even see what companies are hiring before you visit.
Students and educators should also keep an eye out for the Automate Student Challenges, where future innovators compete, build skills, and showcase fresh ideas in robotics and automation. The challenge is a must-see for attendees who want to see the next generation of talent in action.
One of the must-see new attractions for 2026 is the Humanoid Robot Pavilion, sponsored by NVIDIA, alongside the third annual Humanoid Robot Forum. Together, they bring humanoid robots front and center, giving attendees a chance to see the technology in action and hear directly from the experts shaping what comes next.
Stay tuned for showstoppers
While every Automate Show brings surprises, there are always a few showstoppers worth seeking out. From dinosaurs walking around to robots serving beverages to a drum performance, you never know what will pop up. We're hearing whispers about some impressive demonstrations for 2026. Follow Automate on social media for the latest updates as we get closer to the show.
SEE YOU AT AUTOMATE
From the tech to the people to the connections that drive our industry forward, this powerful event is where futures are made. Get ready for the most comprehensive and inspiring automation experience of the year!
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