METALCON at 35: Exploring the Past, Present and Future of Metal Construction

New immersive experiences, industry networking and a veteran-support initiative highlight this year’s event

METALCON will feature new onsite experiences and networking opportunities, along with a special community initiative, October 7–9 in Orlando, Florida. Celebrating its 35th year, the show will offer attendees the opportunity to explore where the industry has been—and where it is headed, while reinforcing its role as the gathering place for professionals who design, manufacture, specify and build with metal.

From hands-on learning and emerging technologies to industry connections and experiences that recognize metal construction’s history and impact, METALCON will feature immersive activations from U.S. Steel and FRAMECAD, along with education, demonstrations and opportunities to connect with professionals across the industry.

“METALCON has always been about bringing the metal construction community together, but this year we’re looking at the industry from every angle—where it has been, where it is today and where it is going,” said Judy Geller, METALCON vice president of Trade Shows. “Our attendees represent every segment of the industry and we’re developing relevant content and experiences for all of them. Whether you’re already working in the industry or considering how metal can be used in your next project, METALCON is where you can learn about the issues affecting the industry today and see what is on the horizon.”

U.S. Steel celebrates 125 years of innovation

Among the new attractions on the exhibit floor will be U.S. Steel’s Steel on the Move Experience, an interactive exhibit marking the company’s 125 years of innovation, craftsmanship and leadership in American steelmaking.

Located in the center of the exhibit hall, the experience will explore the history of steel and its role in building infrastructure, products and communities, while also examining the technologies and sustainable solutions influencing the future of steelmaking.

FRAMECAD demonstrates the future of construction

Attendees will also see the construction process from design through assembly during Design-to-Manufacture-to-Build Live, presented by FRAMECAD and its dedicated partners.

The live demonstration will showcase an integrated cold-formed steel ecosystem, taking attendees through design and engineering, automated manufacturing and live assembly. It is intended to demonstrate how connected construction technologies can improve speed, precision, efficiency and project delivery.

The FRAMECAD experience is in support of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, reinforcing the connection between innovation in construction and METALCON’s broader commitment to supporting veterans—this year through housing solutions.

Networking across the industry

Networking remains a significant part of the METALCON experience, with events tailored to connect professionals at different stages of their careers and across different segments of the industry.

FORGE: Where Women in Metal Shape What's Next – Formerly Metal and Mimosas – takes place Tuesday, October 6, ahead of the show’s official opening with an expanded program connecting women across the metal construction industry.

Speed networking rounds out day one, giving attendees a structured format that lets participants make quick, meaningful connections and set up follow-up conversations. Following speed networking, the METALCON 35th Anniversary Bash will bring the metal construction community together to celebrate its history, recognize its Legacy 10 companies while toasting its future. The show’s eye toward what’s next continues with the Future Leaders Happy Hour recognizing this year’s 40 under 40 honorees.

Additional networking opportunities include the Contractors Connection Reception and Oktoberfest in The Backyard. Together, these events are designed to bring the entire metal construction ecosystem together, creating opportunities to build relationships and strengthen connections across the industry.

Supporting Veterans and the Community

METALCON will again incorporate giving back into the event through its METALCON Gives Back campaign. This year, the initiative will support a Tunnel to Towers veteran housing community in Florida. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation assists injured veterans, first responders and families of fallen service members through housing and other forms of support. A check presentation will take place Thursday, October 8, at 4 p.m. in the exhibit hall.

“The industry is changing quickly, and people need a place where they can understand those changes in context,” said Geller. “That is what METALCON provides. It is a place to learn what is happening now, understand the forces shaping the industry and have conversations about what comes next.”

About METALCON

Established in 1991, METALCON is the only annual event dedicated exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction. Produced by PSMJ Resources, Inc., in partnership with the Metal Construction Association, it brings together decision-makers from across the metal construction ecosystem to explore innovations shaping the built environment. More than a trade show, METALCON serves as the industry’s annual business summit—where deals are made, partnerships are formed and the next 12 months take shape. For more information, visit www.metalcon.com.