Wire Expo 2026 will deliver a focused, single-track conference program that gives every attendee a shared learning experience. All sessions will take place on the exhibit floor inside the WAI Theater, with each session running 20 minutes and including Q&A when time allows.
Seating will be available on a first-come basis, with additional standing room around the theater.
Over two days, attendees can explore nearly 20 sessions organized around key themes that highlight both the physical and digital sides of wire and cable manufacturing.
Day 1: Integrated Manufacturing Excellence
What you make—and how you make it
Wednesday’s sessions will focus on the full manufacturing lifecycle, from raw material selection to finished wire and cable production. Presentations will cover:
- Materials innovation
- Product development
- Quality management
- Production efficiency
Speakers will show how decisions across the plant floor directly impact performance, yield, and product quality.
The morning keynote will feature John W. Mellowes, CEO of Charter Manufacturing Company, Inc. (https://www.chartermfg.com). He will share insights on leadership, long-term investment, and building manufacturing excellence through continuous improvement.
Attendees can also explore Production Solutions sessions in the WAI Theater, with additional details available in the Wire Association International’s March publication.
Day 2: Digital Transformation & Industry 4.0
How technology drives modern manufacturing
Thursday will shift focus to the technologies transforming the wire and cable industry. Sessions will highlight:
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Automation systems
- Data analytics
- Smart factory integration
- Predictive quality tools
- Connected manufacturing systems
These technologies continue to improve scalability, efficiency, and competitiveness across manufacturing operations.
The keynote speaker, John Sviokla of GAI Insights (https://gaiinsights.com) and Harvard Business School, will explain how digital transformation reshapes manufacturing processes, business models, and organizational culture.
The day will also include The Wire Association International’s Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony, recognizing industry leadership and innovation. Learn more about WAI at https://wirenet.org.
Advanced Extrusion Workshop
Hands-on training for extrusion professionals
Wire Expo 2026 will also offer an Advanced Extrusion Workshop on Wednesday, May 6, at the Milwaukee Hyatt Regency.
This hands-on session runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and allows attendees to join the show opening and keynote before transitioning into the workshop.
Led by Richard Chamberlain of Hawkins Consulting, LLC (https://hawkinsconsultingllc.com) and David Skinner of Joe Tools, Inc. (http://joetools.com), the workshop focuses on real-world problem solving.
Participants will work in small groups to explore:
- Material handling techniques
- Tooling design and performance
- Screw optimization
- Process troubleshooting
Lake Cable, LLC (https://lakecable.com) will supply extrusion screws and tooling for detailed, hands-on analysis. The session includes a working lunch.
Attendance is limited to 60 participants to maintain an interactive learning environment. Registration costs:
- $225 for WAI members
- $295 for non-members
Secure your spot and learn more at https://wirenet.org/events/wire-expo-2026/
