Maximize Your Additive Manufacturing Knowledge at AMUG 2026

The Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) is gearing up for its highly anticipated AMUG 2026 conference, a pivotal event for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Scheduled to take place from March 15th to 19th, 2026, at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada, AMUG 2026 promises an immersive experience dedicated to advancing the uses and applications of additive manufacturing technologies. This conference is more than just a meeting; it’s a dynamic platform designed to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation within the additive manufacturing community. Secure your participation by registering HERE and delve into the exciting prospects awaiting you at this year’s edition.

Staying true to its ethos, “For Users – By Users,” AMUG 2026 distinguishes itself from conventional trade shows by emphasizing deep industry engagement and practical learning. The event offers an all-encompassing experience, featuring a comprehensive four-day conference complemented by the three-night AMUGexpo. This structure ensures ample opportunities for attendees to connect with peers, explore cutting-edge technologies, and gain insights from leading experts in the field.

At the heart of AMUG 2026 is a commitment to peer interaction and education. The conference agenda is packed with over 150 technical sessions, keynote presentations, interactive workshops, and engaging panel discussions. These sessions are meticulously crafted to provide attendees with a wealth of knowledge and practical skills that can be directly applied to their work. The event’s atmosphere is designed to encourage networking and collaboration, fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants. AMUG encourages attendees to embrace this spirit of collaboration, spark their creativity, and unlock the potential for groundbreaking advancements.

The speaker lineup is a major draw for AMUG 2026. Among the distinguished speakers is Ronen Hadar, Senior Director and Head of Additive Design & Manufacturing for The LEGO Group. He will deliver a keynote presentation on Thursday, March 19th, titled “Additive Manufacturing at Scale in Consumer Goods: The Case of The LEGO Group.” In his presentation, Hadar will explore the innovative ways in which additive manufacturing is being integrated into the toy industry, a sector renowned for its high-volume, low-cost production demands. This keynote will offer invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities of scaling additive manufacturing for mass production.

In addition to Hadar’s keynote, AMUG 2026 will feature similar keynote presentations and panel discussions each day of the conference. On Monday, March 16th, industry leaders representing AMUG’s Diamond Sponsors will participate in a panel discussion, providing their perspectives on the current state and future direction of additive manufacturing. Tuesday, March 17th, will feature another keynote presentation from a prominent figure in the industry. Wednesday, March 18th, will showcase the Innovators Showcase, highlighting groundbreaking technologies and applications in additive manufacturing. These sessions are strategically placed at the beginning of each day to set the tone for learning and engagement.

Exciting New Features and Enhancements for AMUG 2026

The AMUG team is continually striving to enhance the conference experience and deepen its educational impact. For AMUG 2026, several key enhancements have been introduced. Attendees can look forward to an increased number of hands-on and interactive workshops scheduled throughout the week. These workshops are designed to provide participants with practical experience and skills that they can immediately apply to their work.

Another exciting addition to AMUG 2026 is the introduction of new Training Labs. These labs will offer attendees “under-the-hood” technology experiences, providing them with a deeper understanding of the inner workings of additive manufacturing equipment and processes. These immersive experiences will allow participants to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the technologies and processes driving the industry forward.

The session tracks have also been revamped to align more closely with specific industries and applications. This realignment will allow attendees to more easily find the sessions that are most relevant to their interests and needs. By focusing on specific industries and applications, the conference will provide attendees with a more targeted and valuable learning experience.

For those seeking even more in-depth learning opportunities, AMUG 2026 will offer new pre-conference courses. These courses provide attendees with the opportunity to delve deeper into specific topics and gain specialized knowledge before the main event begins. One of the pre-conference courses is an ASTM course focused on becoming a qualified supplier for Navy contracts using Directed Energy Deposition (DED) and Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) technologies. This course is designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the stringent requirements of the Navy and secure valuable contracts.

Another pre-conference course offered at AMUG 2026 is an MSOE course titled “Practical AI: From Core Concepts to Modern Models.” This course will explore the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in additive manufacturing, providing participants with a foundational understanding of AI concepts and how they can be applied to improve efficiency, optimize processes, and drive innovation. Participants will learn about various AI models and techniques, and how to implement them in their own additive manufacturing operations.

In addition to the ASTM and MSOE courses, AMUG 2026 will also offer an AM Academy Course. This course will explore technology identification, suitability, and applications in additive manufacturing, providing participants with a comprehensive framework for evaluating and implementing new technologies. This course will help participants make informed decisions about technology investments and ensure that they are leveraging the most appropriate technologies for their specific needs.

Embrace the Spirit of Competition and Community at AMUG 2026

Active participation is a defining characteristic of the AMUG conference, and AMUG 2026 will be no exception. The highly anticipated 2026 Technical Competition invites users to showcase their additive manufacturing expertise and skills. Participants are encouraged to submit their entries by February 27, 2026, for a chance to win recognition and accolades for their innovative projects. The Technical Competition is a fantastic opportunity for attendees to demonstrate their capabilities and contribute to the advancement of the field.

For those seeking a more lighthearted and engaging engineering challenge, the popular AMUGderby will return to AMUG 2026. This event allows attendees to design and race gravity-powered cars during the AMUGexpo. The AMUGderby is a fun and interactive way to connect with peers, showcase creativity, and engage in friendly competition. Participants can leverage their engineering skills to design and build innovative cars that will compete for speed and performance.

Recognizing and celebrating excellence remains a core value of the AMUG conference. The prestigious Distinguished Innovator Operators (DINO) Award is open for nominations until February 13, 2026. This award recognizes individuals with a deep passion for and dedication to additive manufacturing who are committed to sharing their knowledge and expertise with the community. Nominations are encouraged for individuals who have made significant contributions to the field and who embody the spirit of innovation and collaboration.

AMUG is also committed to supporting the next generation of additive manufacturing leaders. Scholarships are awarded to one student and one educator each year, providing them with financial assistance to pursue their studies and research in the field. Applications for these scholarships are accepted through January 16, 2026. By investing in the future of additive manufacturing, AMUG is helping to cultivate a talented and innovative workforce that will drive the industry forward.

AMUG 2026 is poised to be a dynamic and enriching event, offering attendees a wealth of training, networking opportunities, and exposure to cutting-edge innovation. Registration is currently open for attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors, inviting them to secure their spots for the conference in Reno. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with the additive manufacturing community, expand your knowledge, and contribute to the future of the industry. Sign up HERE today!

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*All Photo Credits: AMUG