Automate is the go-to destination for learning about and exploring all the possibilities in automation. Still need convincing on why you should attend? Lucky for you, we have a few reasons why it’s a must-attend for you — and your company.
REASON 1: IT’S COMPLETELY FREE
Did you know the Automate Show is free to attend? Yup, all you need to do is register for a show badge. And that badge gets you access to over 365,000 square feet of industrial automation solutions and technology, keynote speakers, and educational sessions — for FREE.
REASON 2: YOU CAN FIND HUNDREDS OF SOLUTIONS
With over 1,000 exhibiting companies from around the world, you can find a full spectrum of cutting-edge automation solutions and technology. Explore the latest in robotic arms and humanoids. See advancements in sensors, cameras, and vision technology. Learn how AI, software, digital twins, and tech are unlocking doors. Plus, dive into motors, motion control systems, and much more.
REASON 3: EDUCATION IS AT THE FOREFRONT
Beyond enlightening conversations with exhibitors and other show attendees, Automate boasts multiple educational experiences for those looking to get ahead. For example, we have 200+ speakers taking the Automate Theater stage. Or, you can catch our newsmaking keynote sessions!
We even have the leading automation conference for onsite training and certifications available for a fee. Early Bird conference pricing is valid until May 11, 2026!
REASON 4: YOU GET IMMEDIATE TAKEAWAYS
While researching online and browsing catalogs can give you answers, nothing compares to seeing automation in action — and in person. Get to know the manufacturers behind the solutions. Ask questions and learn about all the different options available. Even attend speaker sessions and networking events to hear from others and gain new insights. There’s nothing better!
REASON 5: AUTOMATE IS AN AUTOMATION SHOW FOR EVERYONE
Whether you’re just starting your automation journey or well on your way. Whether your industry has seen wide adoption or is just scratching the automation surface. Whether you’re a large enterprise or a small business looking to get more efficient. At Automate, all that matters is that you’re curious about automation. Everyone walking our show floor is here to understand and explore how to advance their business, industry, and even career.
REASON 6: ATTENDEES LOVE IT HERE
There are robots, brilliant people, cool tech, new innovations, hands-on demos and so much more. Hear why our past attendees love coming to Automate!
REASON 7: THe events
Annual favorites like our premier networking events will make their return at McCormick Place in 2026. You can also expect our annual Startup Challenge and Innovation Awards competitions in the Show Theater.
For more networking opportunities, the Women’s Empowerment Forum and Educator Day programs offer smaller groups to connect with like-minded professionals and shape what the future of their business or classroom looks like. While these are free events, they do require registration due to limited space.
REASON 8: IT’S IN THE WINDY CITY
Automate 2025 is making its way back to Chicago, Illinois — and this year we’re taking over TWO halls of McCormick Place. As an international and innovation hub for a wide array of industries, you can find inspiration on and off our show floor. As we get closer to Automate, we will have a Chicago guide as well as our first-time and returning attendee playbooks to help you maximize your visit.
REASON 9: THERE’S PLENTY FOR EDUCATORS & STUDENTS
We know how important building tomorrow’s workforce is today. That’s why we invite educators and students to join us and learn about why automation is so exciting and important. From A3 NextGen Student Tours to the Education Pavilion, students get a chance to learn from and connect with potential future employers. In addition, our Automate Student Challenge is a fun and exciting way to see the next generation in action. The challenge features middle and high school teams as they take on various real-world robotics challenges in front of an audience. Definitely worth a stop in the Education Pavilion!
REASON 10: IT’S GOOD FOR YOUR COMPANY
So you’re ready to attend Automate? That’s great news! We know deciding to attend an event like Automate isn’t always as simple as clicking “register”, so we created a justification letter template with some tips to help convince your company to invest in your — and their — future!
We hope to see you soon at Automate, June 22–25, 2026, in Chicago, Illinois!
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