​​​​​Show Opening Times:

Oct 28 (Wed) 9.30am - 5.30pm

Oct 29 (Thur) 9.30am - 4.30pm

Speaker Arrival Times:

Please note that speakers have early access to the show at 8.30am on both days and full access to the VIP Lounge. 

All speakers must arrive at the venue 1 hour before your session is due to start. 

Upon arrival, please head to the dedicated Speaker's Check-In at registration. Here you will be able to print and collect your dedicated speaker badge. 

Venue:

Hall F2, West Building, Level 3, McCormick Place, 2301 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL, 60616, USA

FAQS

  • What technology will be used during the panel session? 

If you're giving a presentation/workshop and are required to present slides, please send a copy of your slides by September 30. You will also need to bring a spare offline copy on a USB. Full AV set up with mics, screen and technician will be there on the day.

  • Will I need to register my own ticket?

You do not need to register. You will automatically be registered and emailed a dedicated speaker's badge via Livebuzz before the event. 

  • Are there any networking opportunities for speakers?

All speakers are welcome to join all of the networking events over the two days to network with our exhibitors, VIPs and other speakers.

  • How long will the panel session be, and what is the format?

All panel discussions and fireside chats are 45 to 50 minutes long - 35 to 40 minutes of discussion, followed by a 10-minute Q and A with the audience.

Each session will have a moderator and 4-5 other speakers in the discussion. This is an informal panel discussion and there are no slides needed. Each speaker will submit 2 talking points/questions for the moderator to raise during the discussion.

You will be introduced to your panel at least 4 weeks before the event, via an individual email thread. You're recommended to set up an alignment call in order to prepare for the session.

  • How should I prepare for the panel?

When panels are introduced in September, we will be asking each speaker to submit two speaking points via the email thread. These can be formatted as statements, questions, bullet points, and case studies - whichever format you would prefer.

We would love for your network to attend your session, so we will be sending your personalized speaker banners in the lead-up to Chicago Build each month to post across your social media. You can also access them via the Speaker Marketing Pack. Please ensure you're following Chicago Build and always use #ChicagoBuild so we can like/share your posts and add to the buzz! 

  • Where should I park?

The hall is accessed through the West Building Main Entrance of McCormick Place. The closest place to park would be Parking Lot A.


Quick Links:

MARKETING PACK 

SOCIAL MEDIA 

Your personalized speaker banners will be sent in the coming weeks to promote to your network!  Please ensure you're following Chicago Build and always use #ChicagoBuild so we can like/share your posts!


PRESS RELEASE

We welcome your whole network to attend Chicago Build.  Please share this Press Release with your marketing team to circulate.


EVENT LOGO & DESCRIPTION TO ADD TO YOUR WEBSITE

Chicago Build 2026Chicago Build Festival LogoOfficial Speaker Badge

The Midwest's leading and largest construction show returns to McCormick Place on October 28 & 29!

Secure your FREE TICKET: https://forms.reg.buzz/chicago-build-expo-2026/speaker

Chicago Build offers a totally unique experience over the two days, featuring:

  • 30,000+ attendees from contractors, architects, realtors, civil engineers, developers, government, house builders and construction professionals
  • 450+ incredible speakers across 9 conference tracks
  • AIA CES approved workshops
  • The Festival of Construction with DJs, musicians, live performances, food and drinks tastings, entertainment and more
  • Architect’s Hub with project displays of upcoming projects from leading architects
  • Exclusive networking parties with key decision-makers
  • The USA's largest networking event for Women in Construction and Diversity in Construction
  • An inclusive Ambassador Program supporting Women in Construction and Diversity in Construction
  • 350+ exhibitors showcasing the latest services, products and innovations
5 weeks
4 Weeks

SOCIAL MEDIA EVENT PAGES

Invite your LinkedIn connections

Invite your network via Linkedin to attend. Please follow these steps:

  • Click "Invite Connections" and invite up to 1000 connections per week
  • Click "Share Event" and post a link to the Event

Follow the Chicago Build Expo page

Want to follow the official Chicago Build Expo page for the latest construction projects and show updates including speaker banners?

  • Click 'Follow Page'
  • Click 'Invite Connections' to share it with your connections!

Video Promotion

In order to drum up excitement for your session, we would love for you to record a personalized video about your chosen topic at Chicago Build! This video can then be posted on your social media to your network and on the Chicago Build socials. Here are some of our top tips:

  • Keep it short and simple! We would recommend the video length to be around 30 seconds long
  • Wondering what to include? Mention some of the key talking points of the discussion, why the topic is important to you, the date and time of your session and that tickets are free!
  • A selfie video while you're at work is perfect! Treat it like you're Facetiming a friend to get the best results
  • Enjoy recording it! 

Please send your video to .

CHICAGO BUILD CONFERENCE AGENDA

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10:00
  1. 50 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 50 mins
  5. 50 mins
    Explore the unique fire challenges faced on construction sites and discover how NFPA 241 is essential to reducing those risks. This session will review the enforcement and application of NFPA 241, cov …
  6. 45 mins
    Natural stone has come to be an ever-present material on our buildings and interiors, and for good reasons: it is unmatched by any other material in its beauty, durability, structural properties, and …
  7. 50 mins
  8. 60 mins
    Connect with construction professionals including contractors, architects, developers and more, to share insights, and explore opportunities for growth and advancement in the construction industry.
10:55
  1. 45 mins
    A roofing system is a highly engineered assembly of interdependent materials designed to form a continuous, watertight envelope that protects the building from environmental exposure. Its complexity l …
11:00
  1. 50 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 50 mins
  5. 50 mins
  6. 50 mins
11:15
  1. 60 mins
    Expand on your connections with Chicago's leading companies paving the way for sustainability across the industry. Network with those committed to driving positive environmental change and creating a sustainable future.
12:00
  1. 50 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 50 mins
  5. 50 mins
  6. 50 mins
    Examine the evolving role of battery technologies in modern construction and workplace environments. This session discusses innovations in energy storage, associated safety considerations, and how bat …
12:30
  1. 60 mins
    Discuss, network and connect with AI, tech and digital construction experts from across the industry. The perfect spot to share ideas, and knowledge and create opportunities for all things digital.
12:35
  1. 45 mins
    Immersive technologies are often promoted as the future of model coordination, yet most teams still rely on screen sharing. This workshop focuses on a practical question: When does XR improve coordina …
13:00
  1. 50 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 50 mins
  5. 50 mins
  6. 50 mins
13:45
  1. 60 mins
    Discuss, network and connect with AI, tech and digital construction experts from across the industry. The perfect spot to share ideas, and knowledge and create opportunities for all things digital.
14:00
  1. 50 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 50 mins
  5. 50 mins
  6. 30 mins
14:30
  1. 20 mins
    14:15PM - 14:27PM - DEMO: Meet Your Future Team: How Virtual Assistants Are Transforming Businesses with Catherine vanVonno
15:00
  1. 45 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 50 mins
  5. 45 mins
  6. 50 mins
  7. 75 mins
    The annual Diversity in Construction Networking Event is free-to-attend for all. Learn from an inspiring panel of industry leaders as they celebrate the successes and discuss the challenges facing BAM …
15:55
  1. 45 mins
    Community-centered design is not a single engagement phase. It is a way of practicing that begins with listening, builds trust through transparency and shared decision-making, and carries community pr …
  2. 45 mins
    The decarbonization of buildings and sites requires a multifaceted effort and integrated approach across all parties involved. This training will provide a cross-discipline overview of key energy-effi …
16:00
  1. 50 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 45 mins
  5. 90 mins
16:30
  1. 60 mins
    Connect with some of the industry’s leading speakers in a dedicated networking session focused on conversation and collaboration. Exchange ideas, discuss emerging trends, and strengthen your professio …
10:00
  1. 50 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 50 mins
  5. 50 mins
  6. 50 mins
    This session will present actionable measures and real-world guidance to reduce fire risks on construction sites in order to protect both the property as well as the workers on site. Attendees will le …
  7. 45 mins
  8. 60 mins
    Whether you are a real estate agent, broker, investor, developer, or industry service provider, this event offers a valuable platform to connect, collaborate, and stay ahead in the ever-evolving world …
11:00
  1. 50 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 50 mins
  5. 50 mins
  6. 50 mins
    In today's complex construction and industrial environments, ensuring electrical safety requires a holistic approach that spans installation, maintenance, and on-the-job worker protection. This presen …
11:15
  1. 60 mins
    Connect with professionals working at the forefront of fire safety and security. This networking session offers an opportunity to engage with industry peers, discuss key issues, and explore collaborat …
12:00
  1. 50 mins
    Efficient people movement is essential in facilities where safety, accessibility, and uninterrupted operations are top priorities. This session examines how owners and designers can improve elevators, …
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 50 mins
    The Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act went into effect on June 1, 2026, and the first NITA board of directors was seated in September 2026.  The overarching goal of the NITA Act is to mak …
  5. 50 mins
  6. 50 mins
    Life Safety and Security in a building go hand in hand. In this session will introduce how to properly integrate building security systems and features while maintaining life safety for the occupants. …
12:30
  1. 60 mins
    Join us at Chicago Build for a networking session connecting builders, contractors, developers, and construction professionals. Meet industry peers, share ideas, and spark new opportunities in the hea …
13:00
  1. 50 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 50 mins
  5. 50 mins
  6. 60 mins
    The Ambassador Mixer brings together our official Ambassadors for an opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships within the community. This dedicated event is designed to enco …
  7. 50 mins
13:25
  1. 45 mins
    The construction industry is experiencing significant changes as federal policies, legal decisions, and procurement practices continue to evolve. This interactive workshop will provide contractors, de …
13:45
  1. 60 mins
    Are you an architect in the Midwest? Looking for top class architect to design your project? Then the Chicago Build Architecture Networking Event has you covered. Meet fellow architects and make new c …
14:00
  1. 50 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 50 mins
  5. 50 mins
  6. 50 mins
15:00
  1. 45 mins
  2. 50 mins
  3. 50 mins
  4. 45 mins
    Learn about engineered wood products, especially mass timber, and how (and why) mass timber has been incorporated into projects across North America. This session will explore glue-laminated (glulam) …
  5. 90 mins
  6. 50 mins
    Address fire and electrical safety challenges tied to the rapid expansion of data centers. This session explores the unique risk profiles of these facilities, critical code requirements, and proactive …
  7. 75 mins
    The annual Women in Construction Networking Event, in collaboration with our key partners is free-to-attend for all. Learn from an inspiring panel of industry leaders as they celebrate the successes a …