What Can You Expect from AMUG 2026?
AMUG 2026 is on the horizon! As an organization, the Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) continues its mission to “educate and advance the uses and applications of additive manufacturing technologies.” This upcoming event will take place March 15th – 19th, 2026, in Reno, Nevada, at the Grand Sierra Resort. You can register HERE, but first, take a look at what you can expect from this year’s edition.
True to its motto, “For Users – By Users,” the conference remains a hub for deep industry engagement rather than just a standard trade show. The 2026 event promises an all-inclusive experience that combines a 4-day conference with a 3-night AMUGexpo.
Ronen Hadar, Senior Director and Head of Additive Design & Manufacturing for The LEGO Group
Peer interaction and education are at the core of the schedule. Attendees will have access to over 150 technical sessions, keynote presentations, workshops, and panel discussions. The event is designed to foster connection, encouraging participants to “embrace the camaraderie, ignite your creativity, and unlock the potential for groundbreaking collaborations.”
One of the keynote speakers will be Ronen Hadar, Senior Director and Head of Additive Design & Manufacturing for The LEGO Group. On Thursday, March 19, he will present “Additive Manufacturing at Scale in Consumer Goods: The Case of The LEGO Group,” where he will explore how additive manufacturing is being integrated into the toy industry, known for high-volume, low-cost production. There will be similar keynotes and panel discussions to kick off each day, including a panel discussion with industry leaders representing AMUG’s Diamond Sponsors on Monday, March 16, a keynote presentation on Tuesday, March 17, and the Innovators Showcase on Wednesday, March 18.
New Features for 2026
The AMUG team has announced several enhancements for the 2026 conference to deepen the educational impact. Attendees will find an increase in hands-on and interactive workshops scheduled throughout the week. Additionally, new Training Labs will offer “under-the-hood” technology experiences, and session tracks have been revamped to align more closely with specific industries and applications.
AMUG 2026 will feature hands-on workshops and Training Labs.
For those looking to dive deeper before the main event begins, there are also new pre-conference courses, including an ASTM course on becoming a qualified supplier for Navy contracts using DED and PBF, as well as an MSOE course titled “Practical AI: From Core Concepts to Modern Models.” There’s also an AM Academy Course, which will explore technology identification, suitability and applications in additive manufacturing.
Competitions and Community
Active participation is a hallmark of AMUG, and this year will be no different. The 2026 Technical Competition invites users to “show your AM prowess,” with entries accepted through February 27, 2026. For a more lighthearted engineering challenge, the popular AMUGderby returns, allowing attendees to design and race gravity-powered cars during the AMUGexpo.
Recognition of excellence remains a key part of the conference. The prestigious Distinguished Innovator Operators (DINO) Award is open for nominations until February 13, 2026, seeking individuals with a passion for and dedication to AM who wish to share their knowledge. Support for the next generation and academic leaders is also a priority, with scholarships being awarded to one student and one educator, with applications accepted through January 16, 2026.
The AMUGderby lets attendees connect through friendly competition.
It’s clear that AMUG 2026 aims to be a dynamic event filled with training, networking, and innovation. Registration is currently open for attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors to secure their spots for the conference in Reno. Sign up HERE!
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*All Photo Credits: AMUG
