Often dubbed the Super Bowl of commercial construction events (minus the flashy commercials and halftime show), the World of Concrete (WOC) returned to its residency in Las Vegas this year with impressive momentum following its 50th anniversary in 2024. Attracting nearly 58,000 industry professionals, the event underscored the sector’s continued growth and vitality.
With more than 1,500 exhibitors to see and 180 educational sessions to choose from, the conference offered valuable insights and networking opportunities for both seasoned professionals and newcomers.
Modernization and technology were this year’s theme, highlighting their transformative potential for the future for all facets of the construction industries.
“This event sets the standard for excellence in construction, both excelling in size, attendance and engagement as well as the ability to deliver highly relevant and tailored content to our various audience types,” said Jackie James, vice president at World of Concrete.
“It provides actionable insights and tangible takeaways that attendees can take into the real world, empowering them to thrive in their roles and stay ahead as the knowledge gained at WOC is applied in the day-to-day work,” he added.
Technology Takes Concrete Form
There is little doubt that the U.S. construction market continues to face workforce challenges, as well as finding more efficient and sustainable ways to build, so it was the perfect venue to see new advances and inroads being made in the field of automation.
The exhibit halls were filled with manufacturers and suppliers showcasing machinery, robotics and eco-friendly materials.
A major highlight was the showcase of concrete 3D printing, carbon capture for cement production and the latest advancements in robotic equipment designed to boost jobsite productivity and safety.
“This year’s show offered exhibitors that were focused on 3D printing, drones or artificial intelligence along with educational offerings geared to those topics,” said Steven Pomerantz, the show’s senior marketing manager.
Forklifts, Telehandlers and Boom Lifts, Oh My!
Magni Telescopic Handlers unveiled four models catering specifically to the needs of the concrete and masonry industries.
Each model was designed to improve safety, efficiency and productivity on jobsites. Highlighted models included:
All models have multiple attachments and safety enhancements for contractors in demanding construction environments.
“We had the opportunity to consolidate our presence in one of the most strategic markets for Magni: the United States. The U.S. market represents not only a challenge for us, but an incredible springboard to take our vision of innovation and performance to the next level,” the company said on its social media.
“Being here means building relationships, listening to the needs of professionals and continuing to innovate for an ever more ambitious future.”
JLG Industries, Inc., introduced its new 60-foot EC600AJ articulating boom lift at the event, expanding its electric construction portfolio in North America.
With an unrestricted platform capacity of 550 pounds and a restricted capacity of 750 pounds, the EC600AJ is designed for up-and-over capability, offering a 27-foot 1-inch up-and-over height. This allows operators to navigate complex obstacles while maintaining precise positioning.
The lift features a 130-degree jib articulation range and 400-degree non-continuous swing, enhancing flexibility in confined spaces. Powered by two 10.7 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion batteries, the equipment provides efficient, environmentally friendly operation and offers four-wheel drive AC drive motors for increased terrain capability.
Additional features include a tight turning radius, non-marking foam-filled tires and advanced control systems. Its compact design makes transport easier, allowing two units to fit on one trailer, reducing transportation costs and logistics.
“We’ve focused on making the EC600AJ both powerful and practical, part of a new generation of JLG boom lifts designed with jobsites of tomorrow in mind,” said Angela Patterson, product management specialist lead at JLG.
PALFINGER, a long-time participant at the event, offered a preview of its new FHC 55 P center seat double reach truck-mounted forklift.
Featuring its patented reach system, tilting and side-shifting fork carriage and a spacious operator cabin, the FHC 55 P sets a new benchmark for precision, versatility and comfort in material handling.
“It was exciting to be back at the World of Concrete as this gave us the opportunity to engage directly with our customers and partners, hear their insights and understand their needs even better,” said Ismael Daneluz, PALFINGER’s vice president of sales & service for North and Latin America.
“Our participation highlights our dedication to innovation, customer success and building strong relationships. We were particularly eager to show our customers in the brick and block sector the new FHC center seat truck-mounted forklift exclusively for the first time,” said Daneluz.
Special Events and Other Highlights
One of the biggest draws of this international conference is always the Spec Mix 500, and this year was no exception.
Twenty-seven masons from around the world competed for the title of 2025 SPEC MIX Bricklayer 500 World Champion and a prize package worth $125,000, including a new 4x4 Chevrolet truck, a Kubota RTV-X1130 utility vehicle and an Essick Pro 12 mixer.
Mason Cole Stamper and tender Forest Stamper, brothers from Kentucky, took home the grand prize with Darian Douthit crowned top craftsman.
In its ongoing effort to engage students, the Concrete Industry Management (CIM) Auction featured both live and silent auctions, raising $2.15 million for the CIM Initiative.
This business-focused program offers a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Concrete Industry Management at five public universities: California State University, Chico; Middle Tennessee State University; New Jersey Institute of Technology; Texas State University; and South Dakota State University.
This commitment to education and workforce development was a key theme throughout the event, emphasizing the industry’s need for both transformation and skilled professionals.
“Our mission is to equip our community with the knowledge and skills to navigate new opportunities, challenges and changes in this rapidly evolving industry while preparing current leaders to recruit and nurture the next generation of talent,” James said.
Save the Date
World of Concrete will return to Las Vegas Jan. 20-22, 2026, with educational sessions beginning Jan. 19.
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
On our websites, we employ cookies to bolster technical functionalities, enriching your user experience and helping us refine our site. Your continued use of this website implies acceptance of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
