World of Concrete 2026 Showcases Global Construction Innovations

World of Concrete 2026, the premier event for the concrete construction and masonry industries, concluded at the Las Vegas Convention Center, attracting more than 47,400 registered professionals. Attendees connected on the future of construction, explored innovations, and discovered resources for education, skill development, and workforce growth.

Global Innovation and Market Growth

The exhibition featured over 1,300 companies across categories such as material handling, concrete producers, construction technology, precast, masonry, concrete reinforcement, cement production, demolition, repair, surfaces, and decorative solutions. A total of 284 new exhibitors joined the event, highlighting breakthrough technologies as the cement and concrete products market is projected to reach $508 billion by 2030 at a 4.9% CAGR.

Participating countries included Australia, Canada, Brazil, China, the Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, India, Italy, Belgium, Germany, Japan, Korea, Libya, Mexico, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, demonstrating the event’s global reach. The United States remains the world’s fourth-largest cement producer.

Jackie James, Vice President of World of Concrete, stated, “World of Concrete is where the future of concrete and masonry construction is built. Our exhibitors and attendees come together to connect, collaborate, and uncover new opportunities shaping the industry’s future.”

World-Class Education Programs

The event introduced bilingual seminars, adding a Spanish track to key sessions. Experts discussed topics including economics, engineering, and industry forecasts. Highlights included “The Economic Forecast with Ed Sullivan and Pierre Villere,” offering data-driven market projections and sector-specific insights for cement and construction professionals.

Two new engineering courses were also introduced:

• Engineering: Designing for Constructability – focusing on strategic design choices
• Engineering: Bridging the Gap Between General Contractor & Engineer – improving construction productivity through enhanced communication

Interactive Features and Student Initiatives

World of Concrete 2026 featured the Construction Industry Management (CIM) Live and Silent Auctions, raising a record $2.3 million for student scholarships in four-year Bachelor of Science programs in Concrete Industry Management at five U.S. universities.

The event also hosted the World Championship SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500®, where 28 masons competed for the title of “World’s Best Bricklayer.” Grant Helms and tender Keith Helms from North Carolina won the grand prize, which included $125,000 in cash and prizes such as a fully upfitted Chevrolet 4×4, a Kubota RTV-X1130 utility vehicle, and an Essick Pro12 mixer.

Driving the Future of Construction

World of Concrete 2026 reinforced its role as the global platform for innovation, education, and excellence in concrete and masonry construction. The event provided industry professionals with insights, networking opportunities, and practical knowledge to advance projects and workforce skills worldwide.