World of Concrete Showcases Tech, Talent and Tools

World of Concrete 2025 proved once again why it’s a cornerstone event for the commercial construction industry. Following the momentum of its 50th anniversary in 2024, this year’s show in Las Vegas drew nearly 58,000 professionals, reflecting strong industry growth and innovation. For contractors, it was an essential stop — offering firsthand access to new technologies, expert insights and strategies for staying competitive in a rapidly evolving construction landscape.

With more than 1,500 exhibitors and 180 educational sessions, the conference served professionals at every level, from seasoned veterans to newcomers. The overarching theme this year was Modernization and Technology, highlighting their significant potential to transform all areas of the construction industries.

“This event sets the standard for excellence in construction, both excelling in size, attendance and engagement as well as the ability to deliver highly relevant and tailored content to our various audience types,” said Jackie James, vice president at World of Concrete.

“It provides actionable insights and tangible takeaways that attendees can take into the real world, empowering them to thrive in their roles and stay ahead as the knowledge gained at WOC is applied in the day-to-day work,” he added.

Technology Takes Center Stage

It’s no secret that the U.S. construction market faces significant workforce challenges. Finding more efficient and sustainable ways to build is also a key industry need. WOC provided the perfect platform to showcase new advances and significant inroads being made in the field of automation.

The exhibit halls were buzzing with manufacturers and suppliers showcasing machinery, robotics and eco-friendly materials. Major highlights included showcases of concrete 3D printing, carbon capture technologies for cement production and the latest advancements in robotic equipment designed to boost jobsite productivity and safety.

“This year’s show offered exhibitors that were focused on 3D printing, drones or artificial intelligence along with educational offerings geared to those topics,” said Steven Pomerantz, the show’s senior marketing manager.

Unveiling Tomorrow’s Tools for Smarter Construction

As always, WOC was a prime venue for equipment manufacturers to unveil their latest tools designed to make contractors' jobs easier, safer and more productive.

At World of Concrete 2025, Acumatica highlighted its construction management platform built specifically for small and midsized construction businesses. Designed for general contractors, subcontractors, developers and specialty trades, Acumatica’s tools address real-world needs such as estimating, project management, field data collection, inventory tracking, certified payroll and service management.

The platform’s last-mile features — including subcontractor management, multi-company financial and automated accounts payable — streamline critical operations for construction teams. Acumatica also emphasized its connected modules for manufacturing, distribution and retail, allowing businesses to diversify and expand into new markets. Intelligent workflows, role-based dashboards and an integrated accounting suite give users a smarter, more efficient way to manage projects, improve quality and drive sustainable growth in today’s competitive construction environment.

Ideal Warehouse Innovations showcased its Track-Out Mats, designed to help construction sites minimize debris tracked onto public roads. Built primarily from repurposed rubber, these mats offer a durable, low-maintenance solution for projects where municipalities require track-out control. Their modular design fits various site layouts, and they require minimal site preparation, no anchoring and leave no ground damage after removal.

Featuring a staggered brick pattern, the mats effectively dislodge dirt, rocks and mud from vehicle tires and tracks while capturing fallen debris in built-in voids. Engineered for long service life across multiple projects, Track-Out Mats present a practical, environmentally conscious choice for construction operations seeking regulatory compliance and cleaner work zones.

JLG Industries, Inc. showcased its latest innovations in access equipment designed to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry. With its aerial work platforms, telehandler and personnel lifts, JLG demonstrated how its equipment enhances efficiency, safety and productivity on jobsites of all sizes.

Key highlights included JLG aerial lifts and SkyTrak telehandlers, both essential tools for material handling, elevated work and site mobility. Known for rugged reliability and smart design, JLG’s solutions are built to perform in demanding construction environments while supporting jobsite safety with integrated features and specialized attachments. With products spanning construction access, general utility and site safety, JLG continues to be a partner for contractors looking to maintain safe, efficient operations.

Blynk introduced its all-in-one Internet of Things [IoT] management platform built to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry.

Designed to simplify sensor integration across jobsites, Blynk enables contractors to connect, monitor and control critical systems like HVAC, lighting, safety and security from a single platform. The system provides real-time data collection and automation, helping construction teams streamline operations, reduce costs and improve project oversight. By centralizing access to site information, Blynk offers a flexible, scalable solution that supports faster decision-making and more efficient project management. 

Attendees at the show saw firsthand how Blynk’s technology helps eliminate the inefficiencies and fragmentation often found with traditional, single-purpose IoT systems, positioning construction firms to adapt easily and future-proof their operations.

Kubota Tractor Corporation made a strong impact at World of Concrete 2025 with the launch of three new compact construction models: the KX040-5 compact excavator, U17-5 zero-tail swing excavator and the SVL97-3 compact track loader.

The KX040-5 is equipped with a 40.3-horsepower engine and offers enhanced productivity with a redesigned hydraulic system. The U17-5, replacing the U17VR1, brings improved stability and operator comfort with a 16.1-horsepower engine. Kubota’s SVL97-3 compact track loader offers 3,459 pounds of operating capacity and features a new hydraulic system, increased travel speed and ease of service with KubotaNOW Telematics. Kubota’s latest models will be available at authorized dealers in the first quarter of 2025.

Toro highlighted its broad portfolio of construction equipment designed to address the unique challenges of the construction industry. With a legacy dating back to 1914, Toro continues to offer high-quality solutions for indoor demolition, excavation and material movement, particularly in confined and expansive spaces.

From irrigation installations to landscaping and hardscaping projects, Toro’s specialty construction equipment is built to deliver reliability and performance. The company’s extensive range of products supports contractors, rental companies and underground construction professionals worldwide, enabling them to work more efficiently while maintaining high standards of safety and precision. 

Events Beyond the Exhibits

Beyond the exhibit halls, WOC featured signature events that highlight skill and industry commitment.

A major draw was the Spec Mix 500. This year, twenty-seven masons from around the world competed. The grand prize package for the 2025 SPEC MIX Bricklayer 500 World Champion was valued at $125,000 and included a new 4x4 Chevrolet truck, a Kubota RTV-X1130 utility vehicle, and an Essick Pro 12 mixer. Brothers Cole and Forest Stamper from Kentucky took home the top prize, with Darian Douthit crowned the top craftsman.

In a strong commitment to workforce development, the Construction Industry Management (CIM) Auction raised an impressive $2.15 million for the CIM Initiative through live and silent auctions. The CIM Initiative is a crucial business-focused program offering a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Concrete Industry Management at five public universities: California State University, Chico; Middle Tennessee State University; New Jersey Institute of Technology; Texas State University; and South Dakota State University.

This focus on education and workforce development was a key theme throughout the event. It emphasized the industry's dual need for both technological transformation and a new generation of skilled professionals. As Jackie James put it, the mission is "to equip our community with the knowledge and skills to navigate new opportunities, challenges and changes in this rapidly evolving industry while preparing current leaders to recruit and nurture the next generation of talent."

Mark Your Calendars

World of Concrete will return to Las Vegas from January 20-22, 2026, with educational sessions starting on January 19. Based on this year's success and focus on pushing the industry forward, it promises to be another essential event for contractors looking to stay competitive.