Automation Fair 2025 in Chicago welcomed over 10,000 attendees, 120 interactive exhibits, 450 hours of advanced training, and 250 educational sessions, showcasing how industrial automation and digital transformation are shaping the future. From keynote insights to the latest innovations on the expo floor, here’s what we learned about creating what’s next in 2026 and beyond.
Keynote Insights: Big Ideas Driving the Future of Automation
AI is powerful, complex, and constantly evolving—but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. The keynote on How to Innovate in an Era of AI encouraged organizations to rethink the future, which will be increasingly mechanized and AI-driven. Ryan Enockson, Executive Account Manager, highlighted the importance of breaking rules, testing boundaries, and embracing failure. “Being intentional about creative time and trying things differently may feel awkward, but it helps us grow and transform as an organization,” he said.
The Future of Industrial Automation is Here
Industrial automation is moving toward industrial autonomy, and many of the enabling technologies are already available. The keynote Creating the Future of Industrial Operations showcased next-generation innovations designed to expand human potential and operational efficiency. Jackie LaFleur, Design and Implementation Services Manager, noted that AI, robotics, and software-defined architecture solutions on display prove that the future is already here.
“The Logix SCA will elevate multi-discipline control, enabling customers to do more within the classic Logix framework,” she said.
People Make the Biggest Difference
Technology is critical, but people remain the most important factor for success. The keynote The State of Smart Manufacturing emphasized that people account for 80% of solving problems, while technology contributes around 20%.
Josh Reitz, Business Consultant, highlighted three takeaways:
*Avoid automating inefficient processes.
*Measure outcomes beyond traditional metrics.
*Focus on agility, awareness, and competitiveness in a fast-changing market.
*Flexible manufacturing will be key as both technology and customer expectations evolve rapidly.
Innovations and New Products Shaping 2026
The Expo floor featured an impressive demonstration combining OTTO Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) with the beRobox robotic palletizer. Doosan collaborative robots, vision systems, and a no-code programming interface power the beRobox system, which operators can set up in just five minutes. After loading or unloading pallets, the OTTO AMR autonomously navigates the plant floor, creating a fully autonomous palletizing workflow. This solution addresses rising demand, labor shortages, high turnover, knowledge gaps, and safety challenges.
OEMs Gain Flexibility with Panel Optimization Solutions
As manufacturing complexity grows, Rockwell Automation’s panel optimization solutions simplify panel design for OEMs. New devices such as the M100 motor starter, Ethernet/IP in-cabinet solutions, and PointMax I/O help reduce panel footprint, lower engineering complexity, and accelerate production efficiency.
A New Generation of ControlLogix PLCs
For the first time in nearly a decade, the L9 series ControlLogix PLC was showcased. Compared to the L8 series, it offers:
*Double the memory and processing power
*Dual Ethernet/IP ports
*Enhanced CIP security and built-in redundancy
*Integrated safety and process control
With fewer SKUs and simplified hardware requirements, the new PLC series improves reliability and reduces operational complexity. As reported by vanmeterinc.com, Automation Fair 2025 highlighted how industrial automation, digital transformation, and human ingenuity are converging to create what’s next. AI-driven innovations, autonomous robotics, and advanced PLC solutions are shaping the path toward 2026. These developments empower manufacturers to become faster, smarter, and more resilient.
