Your Guide to Doing ConExpo Right

Are you planning to attend ConExpo 2023? If so, then you're in for a treat. The trade show is the perfect place to learn about the latest innovations, products, and services in the construction industry. The ConExpo offers an expansive exhibit space to explore, thousands of new equipment to check out, and countless educational sessions to attend. Not forgetting the thousands of industry experts to network with. But with so much to see and do, it can be tough to know where to start. That's why we've put together this guide to help you make the most of your ConExpo 2023 experience. So whether you're a first-timer or a veteran, read on for your comprehensive guide to doing ConExpo right.

What is ConExpo?

ConExpo is North America's largest construction trade show. It's an annual event that brings together industry professionals from all over the world. At ConExpo attendees learn about the construction industry's latest innovations, products, and services. The show is your biggest opportunity to see more construction equipment, meet more people in the industry, and explore new possibilities to take your business to the next level. ConExpo covers a vast array of topics, including construction equipment and technologies. It also focuses on building materials and products, construction services, and industry trends.

When and Where is ConExpo 2023?

ConExpo 2023 will take place from March 14–18, 2023. The ConExpo will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. The convention center has an exhibit space of 2.7 million square feet, so there's plenty of room to explore. The 2023 ConExpo is expected to attract 1,800 exhibitors from across the world. There will also be 150 education sessions that will deliver cutting-edge details on how to thrive in today’s construction industry.

Who is Attending the ConExpo 2023?

ConExpo brings together professionals from all over the world involved in the construction industry. In 2023, the show is expected to attract around 130,000 attendees. Expect to meet professionals such as:

1. Construction equipment manufacturers

2. Building materials suppliers

3. Construction contractors

4. Architects

5. Engineers

6. Environmental consultants

7. Industry associations

You will also meet the owners and employees of small and medium-sized construction firms. ConExpo attendees usually come from over 130 countries across the world. The large attendance means more opportunities to make new friends and build beneficial relationships with people in the construction community or your field.

Who Is Presenting/Vendors at ConExpo?

The ConExpo is massive, with over 1800 exhibiting companies expected in attendance. Some of the industry-leading companies that will be exhibiting at ConExpo 2023 include:

1. Astec Industries Inc

2. CASE Construction Equipment

3. Caterpillar Inc

4. Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc

5. Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas

6. John Deere Construction & Forestry

7. KOBELCO Construction Machinery USA

8. Komatsu

9. Volvo Construction Equipment

10. Terex Corporation

The vendor will showcase different product categories. These include aggregates concrete, infrastructure maintenance, hauling, and earthmoving and material handling. Other categories include lifting, portable power, safety, underground construction, and trucking.  Exhibitions from vendors aren't the only thing happening at ConExpo. You will also have a chance to attend industry experts' educational sessions. The sessions will cover exciting topics such as best practices when applying tack coats and how to eliminate challenges in your construction business for a better ROI. And since construction is a team’s job, you will learn how to build high-performing teams with trust as the magic ingredient.  Some of the key speakers include:

1. Brian Hall-Territory Sales Manager at LeeBoy

2. Alex Caruana P. Eng.-National Manager at Polydeck

3. Alexandra Smith-Heavy Equipment Operator at Donald Hebert Septic

4. David Fellman-President at David Fellman & Associates

5. Dr. Jim Wiethorn P.E.- Engineering Specialist at ICC Safety Solutions

When Should You Arrive?

You should arrive at least a day before ConExpo starts to get acclimated to the area and avoid the crowds. Many networking events happen in the days leading up to ConExpo. So, arriving early is vital if you want to get the most out of your trip. It’s even possible to arrive three days before the event. Most airlines will offer discounts on international and domestic flights to Las Vegas starting as early as March 11. So book an early flight to take advantage of these deals.

Where Will People Hangout?

Most people prefer to spend their days at the ConExpo site because so much is happening there. You should use your morning hours to tour the outside exhibits and get a feel of the equipment. When the temperatures heat up in the afternoon, head indoors to the air-conditioned halls where most of the vendor booths are located. After that, you can spend the rest of your day attending educational sessions, visiting vendors, or networking with other attendees. If you want to catch up with old friends or make new ones, there are a ton of bars and restaurants near the ConExpo site. You can find something to eat or drink within walking distance, no matter your budget.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Event

ConExpo is a huge event, and it can be overwhelming if you don't know what you're doing. To help you make the most of your trip, here are a few tips:

Make a Plan

It's impossible to visit all the vendor booths or attend all the education sessions at ConExpo. So before you go, make a plan of what you want to see and do.  Decide which vendor booths you want to visit, which sessions you want to attend, and which networking events you want to attend. Planning will help you make the most of your time at ConExpo.

Download the ConExpo App

The ConExpo app is a great way to stay organized and get the most out of the event. You can use the app to create a personal schedule and view the floor plan. You can also use it to receive updates and announcements and network with other attendees.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You will be doing a lot of walking at ConExpo, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. This is not the time to break into new shoes. You don't want to be in pain or have blisters by the end of the day. It's also best to bring an extra pair just in case your shoes start to rub or give you blisters. Also, dress comfortably and bring your sunglasses and hat.

Bring Your Business Cards and an External Phone Charger

You will meet many new people at ConExpo, so make sure you have plenty of business cards to exchange. You should also bring an external phone charger because you will be using your phone a lot to take pictures and videos. You'll also need your phone to stay connected with your colleagues and save the contacts of the new people you meet.

Don't Just Hang Around Your Manufacturer's Booth

If you're only hanging around your manufacturer's booth, you're missing out on a lot of great opportunities. There will be a lot of new companies and technologies to check out. Ensure you explore as much of the ConExpo site as possible. And don't ignore the smaller booths. These booths can be easy to overlook, but they often have the most interesting products and technologies. So make sure you take some time to explore them.

Take Advantage of the Education Sessions

One of the best parts of ConExpo is the education sessions. Experts in the construction industry lead these sessions. They're a great way to learn about new trends, technologies, and best practices.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

It's essential to stay hydrated when you're walking around ConExpo all day. The Las Vegas sun can be brutal, so drink plenty of water.  You should also bring a water bottle to the Convention Center and refill it throughout the day. Take a heavy breakfast in the morning because you'll need all the energy you can get.

Socialize as You Explore

ConExpo is a great place to socialize and network with other construction professionals. So don't be afraid to strike up conversations with the people you meet. You never know who you'll meet or what opportunities will come from it.

Book a Hotel Near the Monorail

If you're looking for a place to stay during ConExpo, book a hotel near the Monorail. The Monorail will take you from your hotel to the Convention Center, so you won't have to worry about dealing with traffic or finding parking. If you book accommodation through the expo's hotel block, you will be lucky to stay in a hotel that offers free shuttle services.

Meet the Boom and Bucket Team

You'll definitely find construction equipment you'll love at the ConExpo. Your next decision will be to invest in a new piece of machinery to increase your productivity. At Boom & Bucket, we understand that new heavy equipment is expensive. Be sure to come see us at the Boom & Bucket booth and ask us about getting a chance to win $1,000,000.