The Wire Expo 2026 conference program will run as a single-track experience, ensuring that all attendees share a common educational journey. Sessions will take place on the exhibit floor in the WAI Theater and will run for 20 minutes each, with time allocated for Q&A when schedules allow. Seating will be available on a first-come basis, with standing-room access around the perimeter of the theater.
Across two days, the program will feature approximately 20 sessions organized around complementary themes that reflect both the physical and digital dimensions of wire and cable manufacturing.
Day 1: Integrated Manufacturing Excellence
What you make, and how you make it
Wednesday’s program will focus on the end-to-end manufacturing lifecycle, from raw materials through finished wire and cable products. Sessions will examine materials innovation, product development, quality management, and production efficiency, emphasizing how interconnected decisions on the plant floor drive overall performance.
The morning keynote will be delivered by John W. Mellowes, CEO and fourth-generation family owner of Charter Manufacturing Company, Inc.. His perspective on leadership, manufacturing excellence, and long-term investment will anchor a day centered on operational fundamentals and continuous improvement.
Wednesday will also include the presentation of Production Solutions in the WAI Theater. Details on those sessions will be featured in the event prequel published in the March issue.
Day 2: Digital Transformation & Industry 4.0
How technology elevates and scales manufacturing
Thursday’s sessions will shift the focus to digital tools and systems reshaping modern manufacturing environments. Topics will include artificial intelligence, automation, data analytics, smart factories, predictive quality, and connected manufacturing systems—technologies that are increasingly critical to competitiveness, scalability, and resilience.
The morning keynote will be presented by John Sviokla, Co-Founder of GAI Insights and an Executive Fellow at Harvard Business School. His keynote will explore how digital transformation is reshaping not only manufacturing processes, but also business models and organizational culture.
Thursday will also feature The Wire Association International’s Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony, recognizing leadership and contributions across the wire and cable industry.
Going deeper: Advanced Extrusion Workshop
Wednesday, May 6 | Milwaukee Hyatt Regency
Wire Expo 2026 will also offer the Advanced Extrusion Workshop, an immersive, hands-on learning opportunity designed for extrusion professionals seeking deeper technical engagement. The workshop, which sold out in its 2025 debut, will run from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Milwaukee Hyatt Regency, directly connected to the Baird Center.
Participants will be able to attend the show opening and morning keynote before transitioning to the workshop. Co-instructed by Richard Chamberlain of Hawkins Consulting, LLC and David Skinner of Joe Tools, Inc., the session will focus on practical problem-solving rather than theory.
Working in small groups, participants will explore material handling, tooling, screw optimization, and process troubleshooting. Extrusion screws and tooling supplied by Lake Cable, LLC will allow for close-up examination and discussion. A working lunch is included.
“This workshop is intentionally interactive,” said John Markowski, WAI’s Manager of Education. “The goal is to create an environment where participants can ask detailed questions, compare experiences, and leave with insights they can apply immediately.”
Attendance is limited to 60 participants. The workshop is available as an add-on to Wire Expo registration, with advance rates of $225 for existing and joining WAI members and $295 for non-members.
Visit the Wire Expo 2026 website for more details.