Manufacturing Professional at CES® 2026: A Sample Itinerary
December 11, 2025
- Author: CTA Staff
Manufacturing isn't just about making things — it's about making things better, smarter and faster. From AI-powered robotics to sustainable production to workforce transformation, the manufacturing sector is experiencing a revolution that will shape America's competitive edge for decades to come. At CES, innovation meets manufacturing like never before. Here's your day-by-day guide to navigating the future of how things are made.
Monday, January 5
Today's Game Plan: Schedule Your Week
Use Monday to get organized and plan your CES experience. Download the CES app, presented by Panasonic, to build your personal agenda by bookmarking must-see sessions and flagging key exhibitors you want to visit.
These tracks are included in your registration:
- Manufacturing Track — Dedicated sessions designed to help you navigate the next industrial evolution.
- Deloitte: Intelligent Robotics, Future Manufacturing, Adaptive Leadership — Get insights from world-leading experts driving innovation.
- PTC: Smarter, Faster, Integrated - The Future of Product Innovation — Discover how integration accelerates product development.
- PwC: Building the Next-Gen Connected Product Factory — Learn how connectivity transforms production.
Evening Highlight
Tuesday, January 6
Today's Game Plan: Technology Meets Manufacturing
Start your day early with the CTA State of the Industry Address and Siemens Keynote (8:30–10 AM, Venetian Level 5, Palazzo Ballroom). Siemens CEO Roland Busch will reveal how AI, digital twins and automation are driving a new era of AI-ready manufacturing and infrastructure. This is essential viewing for anyone interested in the convergence of digital and physical production.
Afternoon
Explore the show floor and dive into sessions at the Research Summit:
- The New Industrial Era: U.S. Reinvention through Tech & Resilience, presented by PwC — Discover how technology and resilience strategies position American manufacturing for global leadership.
- AI, Cost & the Future of OEM-Supplier Collaboration, presented by BCG — Learn how artificial intelligence reshapes supply chain partnerships and cost structures.
- Smart, Connected, Profitable: The Future of Manufacturing, presented by EY — See how connectivity drives profitability in modern production environments.
Evening Highlight
Wednesday, January 7
Today's Game Plan: Innovation in Action
Start the day with Caterpillar CEO Joe Creed's keynote (9–10 AM, Venetian Level 5, Palazzo Ballroom) as he unveils how the company is transforming from a traditional equipment manufacturer into a high-tech innovator. This transformation story offers valuable lessons for any manufacturing enterprise navigating digital disruption.
Afternoon
Head to the Manufacturing Track at LVCC North Level 2, N261 for a powerful lineup of sessions exploring the future of American manufacturing:
1–1:40 PM |
Manufacturing the Future: Energy. Mobility. AI, presented by JobsOhio Learn how energy, mobility and AI are converging to transform manufacturing and why global innovators choose Ohio to scale deep-tech breakthroughs. |
1:50–2:30 PM |
Powering Manufacturing Transformation with AI Partnerships, presented by EY Learn why strategic AI partnerships in industrial manufacturing are critical to drive next-era innovation and long-term growth. |
2:45–3:15 PM |
Beyond AI: The Technologies Powering the Future of Manufacturing AI is driving a new era in manufacturing — alongside automation, robotics, IoT and data analytics reshaping how work gets done and value is created. |
3:15–3:35 PM |
Charting the Future: Manufacturing, Innovation, and America's Competitive Edge Discover how bold strategy, smart policy and innovation can secure U.S. manufacturing leadership amid global competition and rapid technological change. - Jay Timmons, President and CEO, NAM |
3:35–3:55 PM |
Building Skills & Talent for the Next Era of Manufacturing Explore how new training models, skills development and emerging technology are reshaping modern manufacturing and what it means for the workforce and economic growth. - Jeannine Kunz, CEO, SME |
4–4:40 PM |
Made Here: Rethinking Manufacturing in a Shifting Global Landscape Global shifts are driving companies to reshore production. Learn how they're navigating challenges, rebuilding supply chains and rethinking manufacturing. |
Thursday, January 8
Continue your exploration at the SME Advanced Manufacturing Showcase and visit LVCC South Hall exhibitors. See top manufacturing technology providers showcasing the latest in robotics, automation and production systems.
Evening Celebration
Don't miss the CES Foundry Celebration Event, presented by JobsOhio and Vector, from 4:30–6 PM in the Azure Ballroom at Fontainebleau. It's open to all CES badge holders and promises strategic introductions and high-value exchanges with fellow innovators.
Friday, January 9
Today's Game Plan: Final Connections
Before you leave, make your final rounds at the SME Advanced Manufacturing Showcase to catch any Knowledge Bar presentations you missed and solidify connections with industry partners. Visit remaining exhibitors in LVCC South Hall to explore sourcing opportunities and sustainable production solutions.
Bonus
Shark Tank, the five-time Emmy® Award–winning hit show that gives entrepreneurs their shot at the American Dream, is on the hunt for bold business owners and game-changing products. Think you’ve got what it takes to swim with the Sharks? Don’t miss your chance! Meet the casting team in person at CES during our open call on Friday. Numbered wristbands will be handed out from 9–11 AM, and only those with a wristband have the opportunity to pitch. (Venetian Expo)
Ready to experience the future of making? CES is where manufacturing innovation meets real-world adoption. Whether you're a supply chain executive, production manager, engineering leader or first-time attendee, this agenda ensures you'll catch the biggest moments of the manufacturing revolution at CES 2026.
CES is the Global Stage for Innovation
CES is where innovators show up — where the business of technology happens, deals are made, and partnerships spark real growth.