From AI-powered drone flights, eVTOL aircraft, and supersonic simulators to networking hubs and live stages, the finest examples of manufacturing are around every corner at IMTS 2026 – The International Manufacturing Technology Show, Sept. 14-19 at McCormick Place, in Chicago. Here’s a rundown of exceptional attractions, organized by building on the McCormick Place campus. (Hint: Use the IMTS Show Planner to create a time-saving itinerary.) IMTS Plaza1. Pivotal Helix eVTOL Personal Aircraft Part of the IMTS Manufacturing Showcase brought to you by GIE Media Get an up-close look at the Pivotal Helix, a personal electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed for recreational flight and short-hop travel. This next-generation aircraft offers a glimpse into the advanced manufacturing technologies shaping the future of personal aviation. The demonstration takes place outside, between the West and North/South Buildings. Grand Concourse1. IMTS+ Main Stage Hear directly from leaders in manufacturing, aerospace, defense, artificial intelligence, and technology. Free presentations from experts, including those at Microsoft (IMTS booth #237660), Google Cloud (IMTS booth #236709), Hexagon (IMTS booth #134102 and #133210), Boom Supersonic (IMTS booth #432000), and The Making Chips Podcast. Two live recorded shows, “IMTS Today” and “IMTS Unwind,” take place daily. North Building1. AMT Emerging Technology Center (ETC) (Booth #236700) Powered by AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, the ETC demonstrates how manufacturers are accelerating the journey from design to production. Three displays showcase how digital engineering, additive manufacturing, automation, and connected production systems are transforming manufacturing. Watch live drone manufacturing and flight demonstrations from the U.S. Department of Energy Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Explore the AI-designed Aires Tide flight vehicle, one of the first tangible results of the Genesis Mission, a historic effort led by the DOE and supported by Sandia National Laboratories (IMTS booth #237613). Gain insight about MTConnect, which standardizes machine data, giving manufacturers the power to monitor and optimize operations from virtually anywhere. 2. Smart Manufacturing Experience Showcase (Booth #236702) Brought to you by AMT and SME Learn practical strategies for improving productivity, competitiveness, and workforce development through automation, robotics, AI, software, machine monitoring, and smart manufacturing technologies. Register NowEast Building1. IMTS+ Technology Hub (Booth #135401) Discover the latest manufacturing innovations through curated presentations and expert interviews. (Hint: Be sure to step outside of the East Building to take in the spectacular view of Lake Michigan. Plenty of food trucks here too.) South Building1. IMTS+ Technology Hub (Booth #338164) Recharge between exhibitor visits while watching short presentations highlighting innovative technologies, manufacturing success stories, and industry experts. West Building1. IMTS Shops Zone (Booth #432634) Brought to you by Gardner Business Media Explore manufacturing history and craftsmanship through the original Bridgeport Mill Serial No. 1, a custom giant CNC-machined dart, an Ilmor Engineering V8 engine, and outstanding machined parts. Then see what the FANUC (IMTS booth #338900) Swag Bot might deliver to you. 2. IMTS Manufacturing Showcase (Booth #432636) Brought to you by GIE Media See the Kratos XQ-58 Valkyrie autonomous combat aircraft and two aerial target drones while learning about the manufacturing technologies behind modern aerospace systems. Watch a live demonstration of CNC machine tending in action. 3. IMTS Machinists Hub (Booth #432638) Brought to you by Practical Machinist Talk shop with fellow machinists during live discussions, meetups, and networking events. Whether you’re looking for advice, new ideas, or industry connections, this is the community gathering place for machinists throughout the week. 4. IMTS Supersonic Experience (Booth #432000) Presented by Boom and AMT Take the controls of Boom Supersonic’s full-scale Overture flight simulator. Experience realistic force feedback and test your piloting skills in the scored landing challenge. 5. IMTS Community Park (Booth #432200) Presented by AMT and G28 Take a break, network with fellow manufacturers, and enjoy casual conversations while tackling the RC rock crawler course or a game of cornhole. These attractions are just a glimpse of the cool technologies you’ll see throughout all four buildings of McCormick Place. Round out your IMTS experience with a session or evening networking reception from one of the many events, including IMTS Elevate, the IMTS Job Shops Workshop, LATAM Day, the IMTS Conference, and Wednesday’s Miles for Manufacturing 5K along Chicago’s lakefront. Use the Show Planner to build your itinerary and make every minute at IMTS count. Register for IMTS 2026 at IMTS.com/Register today. Further ReadingFirst-Timer's Guide to IMTS5 New Features in the IMTS 2026 Show PlannerIMTS Industrial AI Conference Helps Manufacturers Develop AI Game Plan9 Conferences at IMTS 2026ELEVATE Fosters Meaningful Change for Women in ManufacturingLATAM Day at IMTS 2026IMTS 2026 Exhibitors Feature STEM Kits at the Student SummitIMTS 2026 Takes Flight with Boom Supersonic and Pivotal Helix
From AI-powered drone flights, eVTOL aircraft, and supersonic simulators to networking hubs and live stages, the finest examples of manufacturing are around every corner at IMTS 2026. Here’s a rundown of exceptional attractions, organized by building on the McCormick Place campus.
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