3 Big Things: SMACNA Members Take On MEP Innovation Conference
The 2027 MEP Innovation Conference is coming to Tampa, and SMACNA Greater Chicago members are helping shape the conversation. Jointly hosted by SMACNA, MCAA and NECA, the conference has built a reputation as the leading technology event for mechanical, electrical, plumbing and sheet metal contractors, with Chicago speakers bringing their own experience to the stage.
Why MEP Innovation is worth the trip
The MEP Innovation Conference brings together contractors from the mechanical, electrical and sheet metal trades for three days of education, discussion and hands-on demonstrations focused on productivity and profitability.
Because many of our SMACNA Greater Chicago contractor members are also MCA of Chicago members, this event is a rare opportunity to connect with peers across both organizations in one place. For contractors working across HVAC and mechanical markets, that overlap makes the conference especially relevant.
Returning sponsors add another layer of credibility. Trimble, Milwaukee Tool and Procore backed the 2026 conference as title sponsors, and all three are already on board for Tampa — a strong indication that major industry players continue to see value in the event year after year.
Chicago members take the stage
SMACNA Greater Chicago won’t just be in the audience — two Tuesday sessions feature Chicago-connected speakers.
Joe Melody, Fabrication Technologist at The Helm Group, will lead “The KPI Revolution,” exploring how contractors can use data and dashboards to improve fabrication, workforce productivity and project performance. Dave Pikey, Vice President of Corporate Technology at The Hill Group, will join the panel for “Five Divisions, One ERP,” sharing how Hill consolidated five divisions and three legacy systems into one ERP platform.
Other notable topics include agentic AI, data collection, precon-to-fabrication workflows, VDC coordination and more.
Join us: registration is open
Although the SMACNA Annual Convention is the can’t-miss event for our members, there’s value in stepping outside the association bubble. The MEP Innovation Conference brings together peers from across multiple trades with a focus on the technology and processes changing how we do business.
And the pace of change isn’t slowing down. From AI and data analytics to ERP systems, VDC and fabrication technology, staying ahead means seeing what’s working across the country and bringing those ideas home. More than 700 contractors and industry professionals attended the 2025 conference, underscoring the growing value of this industry event.
Don’t wait — subsidies for Members are limited.* Early-bird registration is now open for $1,495 per person, but SMACNA Greater Chicago is offering a 50% registration discount for members. Email Laurie Leonard today!