From networking opportunities to the overall attendee experience, every detail is being crafted for the launch of Wire Expo 2026, when the reinvigorated biennial event hits the road for its first-ever stop in Wisconsin, the Badger State. It’s also fitting that all this will be presented not just on-site but at WAI’s new website: wirenet.org.

Wire Expo will deliver a high‑impact event uniting the wire and cable industry on May 6‑7, when it takes over Milwaukee’s Baird Center, preceded by WAI’s Fundamentals of Wire Manufacturing Course being held the day before at the Hyatt, which connects via a skywalk directly to the Baird Center.

Wire Expo will run alongside the Electrical Wire Processing Technology Expo (EWPTE) to create a unified experience under one roof. Conference sessions and exhibits will share the same timing: Wednesday, May 6, from 9 am to 5 pm, and Thursday, May 7, from

9 am to 3 pm. Day 1 will be capped off with the Opening Reception (6:30–8:30 pm, 4th Floor Ballroom Terrace) featuring refreshments, connections that matter, and a view of the Milwaukee skyline.

The show floor will offer plenty of reasons for attendees to stop by. As of Dec. 23, a hundred companies have already claimed their spot, taking advantage of the exhibitor package that delivers a turnkey, business‑ready setup that includes carpet, electric, wi‑fi and 200 lb of freight. A limited number of exhibit spots are still available and are being filled on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

The conference sessions have been reimagined with a punchy 20‑minute format on the exhibit‑floor theater. This ensures that attendees can get their fill of diverse technical topics and valuable industry insights without missing floor time. Expect the first wave of confirmed speakers, new product showcases and preliminary agenda details to drop shortly, both here and at www.wirenet.org.

The WAI Member Lounge will serve as a central hub on the exhibit floor, featuring a dedicated resource and learning center where members can connect, recharge and regroup between sessions. New sponsorship tiers offer companies more ways to stand out, and advertising opportunities are available through the Wire Expo sales team.

Registration is now live at my.wirenet.org/events/upcoming-events.

But wait, there’s more: Milwaukee offers an impressive array of attractions. Attendees are encouraged to turn this business trip into a memorable experience and extend their stays—visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, catch a Brewers game on Friday against the New York Yankees, or explore the scenic Riverwalk, world‑class breweries and vibrant lakefront dining.