2026 Automation and Manufacturing Technology Show
by Shawn Furman
Director, Automation and Manufacturing Technology Strategy
Manufacturers Resource Center
Automation isn’t a distant “future” anymore—it’s a practical, proven tool that manufacturers right here in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding regions are using “today” to boost quality, minimize downtime, empower their workforce, and stay competitive amid ongoing challenges like labor shortages and cost pressures.
That’s precisely why MRC’s Automation & Manufacturing Technology (AMT) Show is returning stronger than ever on April 15, 2026. This half-day event is designed specifically for small-to-mid-sized manufacturers: a focused, high-value opportunity to spark new ideas, get honest answers to your toughest questions, and map out your next realistic step in automation—without the overwhelm or sales pressure.
Hosted by the Manufacturers Resource Center at the Delta Hotel by Marriot in Breinigsville, PA, the 2026 AMT Show gathers local manufacturers, trusted solution providers, and experts for an experience that’s all about real-world application and actionable insights.
What’s New This Year
We’ve refreshed the format with dedicated demo zones and separate speaker areas—so you can explore live technologies at your own pace, dive deeper into what interests you, and still catch targeted presentations without everything blending together. The result? Less noise, far more value, and easier takeaways you can bring back to your plant.
Hear from Manufacturers—Not Just Vendors
One of the event’s biggest strengths is the peer perspective. This year’s agenda spotlights local companies sharing their genuine automation journeys: successes, surprises, setbacks, and lessons learned. Confirmed highlights include:
– Greg Kapp from Jus Born on their MES (Manufacturing Execution System) implementation—”bite by bite” improvements that delivered real results.
– Danielle Hess from Highwood USA on empowering teams to build better, more efficient operations through smart tech.
More manufacturer stories are coming soon—expect candid, no-fluff discussions from folks who’ve already navigated the path you’re considering.
Technology You Can Actually Use
The show focuses on practical, scalable solutions tailored for smaller teams and tighter budgets. Expect hands-on looks at:
– Collaborative robots (cobots) for safe, flexible assistance
– Machine vision systems for precise inspection and guidance
– Smart data collection and shop-floor connectivity for better visibility and decision-making
These aren’t pie-in-the-sky demos—they’re integrated examples showing how tech fits into everyday operations, with emphasis on reliability, ease of adoption, and measurable ROI.
Bring the Whole Team
From operations and maintenance to engineering, quality, and leadership—there’s relevant value for every role. Many companies attend as a group so discussions turn into coordinated action back at the plant faster. It’s low time commitment (half-day) but high impact.
Event Details Recap
📍 April 15, 2026
📍 Delta Hotel by Marriott, Breinigsville, PA
⏱ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (includes registration, breakfast, sponsor intros, presentations, and demos)
High impact, low disruption—perfect for busy manufacturing schedules.
Ready to attend? To reserve your spot, register Link Here — Spots fill quickly for this regional favorite!
**Elevate your process. Elevate your people.**
If you’ve been wondering where (and how) automation truly fits your operation—without risking big investments or downtime—the AMT Show is the ideal place to start. Join us to connect with peers, see solutions in action, and leave with clearer direction.
Coming Soon: MRC’s Automation Discovery Lab
Building on the momentum from events like the AMT Show, we’re designing our new Automation Discovery Lab—a compact, hands-on workspace where manufacturers can explore real automation technologies in a low-risk setting. See how systems (industrial controls, smart I/O and networking, machine vision, robotics, data connectivity) integrate, test design impacts on reliability/scalability/ROI, and ask real questions with MRC staff. No classroom lectures or vendor pitches—just practical discovery to build confidence before committing capital or disrupting production. Stay tuned for launch details—we’ll share more as it comes online!
About the Author
Shawn Furman
Shawn, Director, Automation and Manufacturing Technology Strategy, mentors MRC manufacturers to lead and guide them in advanced technologies that enhance quality, boost productivity, encourage innovation, and reduce production time. Today that also includes digital transformation, automation and robotics, and IT integration that enables innovation and smart manufacturing, driving extraordinary outcomes for customers.
Manufacturers who want to learn more and to discuss Process Improvements, Advanced Manufacturing Technology sources and Implementations, please call Shawn at (610) 737-2529 or email him at shawn.furman@mrcpa.org