July 27, 2026
As the metal construction workforce continues to evolve, METALCON 2026 is expanding its education, networking, and leadership programming to support the industry’s next generation of professionals. Celebrating its 35th anniversary, the event will take place October 7–9, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, with new initiatives focused on women, emerging professionals, and Spanish-speaking attendees.
The expanded programming reflects the changing demographics of the metal construction sector, where contractors, manufacturers, architects, engineers, suppliers, installers, designers, and business leaders are shaping the industry’s future.
According to Judy Geller, Vice President of Trade Shows at METALCON, investing in people is essential to strengthening the industry’s long-term success. The event aims to create more opportunities for professional development, collaboration, and career growth across every segment of the metal construction community.
One of the major additions for 2026 is FORGE: Where Women in Metal Shape What’s Next, a new half-day leadership event taking place on October 6, prior to the official opening of METALCON.
Designed for women at every stage of their careers, FORGE will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions with industry leaders, and networking opportunities focused on leadership, career advancement, and industry influence.
To improve accessibility and workforce development, METALCON 2026 will introduce dedicated Spanish-language education alongside hands-on demonstrations in the METALCON Training Zone, presented by MetalVue.
Led by John Sheridan and the Sheridan Metal Resources team, attendees will receive practical instruction on detailing, installation techniques, tool usage, and working with materials including painted steel, aluminum, zinc, and copper.
METALCON continues to expand opportunities for professionals entering the industry through workshops, networking events, and career development activities that connect attendees with contractors, manufacturers, architects, suppliers, and industry decision-makers.
Highlights include the 40 Under 40 Recognition Program, Future Leaders Happy Hour, Speed Networking, FORGE, and the 35th Anniversary Bash, all designed to help participants build lasting industry relationships and accelerate career growth.
As workforce demands, technology, and construction practices continue to evolve, METALCON remains committed to developing the talent needed to move the industry forward. By expanding education, leadership development, and networking opportunities for diverse audiences, METALCON 2026 reinforces its role as one of North America’s leading events for metal construction professionals.
With more than 40 categories of metal construction represented, the event continues to provide a comprehensive platform for discovering new products, technologies, best practices, and the people driving innovation across the industry.
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