The Utility Expo draws record crowd at 2025 show

The Utility Expo expanded the Field Classrooms with immersive 90-minute job site-style classroom sessions covering relevant topics for todays construction and utility professionals.

The Utility Expo

Innovation in education

The Utility Expo expanded its acclaimed Field Classrooms with immersive 90-minute job site-style classroom sessions covering topics such as pipeline rehab, HDD safety, and emerging job site technology.

A Safety Luncheon Symposium brought experts together for actionable discussions and insights on reducing risk and maximizing productivity.

Commitment to workforce well-being

Recognizing the mental health crisis affecting utility and construction professionals, The Utility Expo partnered with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to help advance its overall mission and broad spectrum of suicide prevention education programs and to highlight its construction resources available through the Hard Hat Courage initiative, which is supported by an industry coalition that includes AEM. The partnership raised nearly $24,000 through attendee donations which will help fund organization’s critically important programming and resources for those facing mental health challenges and loss survivors.

“Donations raised at The Utility Expo are incredibly important in advancing AFSP’s mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide, enabling greater access to our suicide prevention education and support programs,” said Trisha Calabrese, MPH, senior vice president of programs for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. “Forums like The Utility Expo help us to distribute construction-specific suicide prevention resources at scale, and we are so grateful to have the support of AEM as a partner in the coalition of leading construction industry organizations in our Hard Hat Courage initiative.”

Community Zone creates connection

The Utility Expo’s award-winning Community Zone returned with expanded programming that energized attendees through music, networking, and industry spotlights. From live bluegrass music and bourbon giveaways to thought leadership talks and mental health advocacy, the Community Zone offered a vibrant space for connection and reflection.

“This year’s Utility Expo brought our industry together in powerful new ways — fostering innovation, collaboration, and a strong sense of community among utility professionals,” said Show Chair Brian Metcalf. “The future of utility construction is bright, and The Utility Expo will continue to be where that future takes shape.”