Daily Highlights from CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026

See what happened at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026. These day-by-day highlights cover the Cat^® equipment, ideas and innovations featured throughout the show.

Day 5 Recap: Built To Finish Strong

The final day of CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 brought an incredible week for Caterpillar to a powerful close. After days of packed crowds, insightful discussions and nonstop demos, the momentum never let up.

At Cat Operator Stadium, the transformation said it all. Dirt that had been flying all week — providing a “sandbox” to showcase the power, precision and intelligence of Cat equipment — shifts to a massive show floor display, offering attendees one last chance to get close to the iron they’ve seen in action. From advanced operator assistance technologies to next-generation equipment designed to boost productivity, it was a fitting evolution: from performance in the dirt to presence on display.

Across this year’s show, the story remained consistent. Caterpillar demonstrated how innovation only matters when it drives real results for customers. The conversations sparked during the keynote at Groundbreaker Stage, the hands-on experiences throughout the booths in West and South Halls and, of course, the action at Operator Stadium, all reinforced one clear message: Caterpillar is helping build the future of the industry, today.

As CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 comes to an end, Cat experts and exhibitors alike leave inspired by the customers, dealers and partners who make this work move. Thank you for an unforgettable week. See you on the jobsite.

Day 5: The Final Walkthrough

As CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 came to a close, remaining attendees got an up-close look at the machines that starred in the demos all week.

The Caterpillar merchandise center remained a popular destination for showgoers even as the trade show started to wind down.

Another cool day in Vegas welcomed CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 attendees.

When the show begins to wind down, the machines stand out even more. Remaining attendees are given the opportunity to spend more time learning about all of their options.

CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 comes to a close. Thanks to all who participated both in person and virtually!

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Day 4 Recap: Performance In Every Direction

Cool breezes and clear blue skies set the perfect backdrop for day four at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, creating ideal conditions for another powerful showcase across every corner of the show.

In West Hall, Cat Compact continued to spotlight practical, scalable solutions, pairing versatile equipment with consultative dealer support designed to help contractors grow with confidence. And in South Hall, attendees explored the depth of Caterpillar parts, service and lifecycle solutions.

Back on the big stage at Operator Stadium, energy was high with a full schedule of action-packed demos. Momentum continued with some fun attendee challenges, adding a dose of competition and crowd engagement to an already dynamic day. From hands-on experiences to expert insights to high-performance iron taking to the dirt, day four struck a balance between serious innovation and show-stopping fun.

As the show heads into its final stretch, one thing is clear: whether it’s with iron, technology or customer support, Caterpillar is delivering solutions built to perform.

Financing Built for How You Work

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Powering Jobsite Progress

Caterpillar power systems showcased engines, electrification advancements and digital technologies driving the next generation of equipment performance in South Hall this year. Features included the debut of a high-power configuration of the Cat C3.6 industrial engine and other power solutions designed to help lower operating costs and improve efficiency. These technologies were integrated across the next-generation machines that appeared in the dirt at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, underscoring how engine innovation, electrification and connectivity come together in real-world applications.

Solutions to Keep You Working

Check out the Cat technology that saves you time and money at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026. From machine demos in the dirt and flexible service options to Cat Certified Rebuilds like this 336F, we can help your machines run with like-new performance.

Day 4: Technology Made For Your Work

An enthralled crowd at Cat Operator Stadium watches a live, action-packed jobsite demo early Friday morning.

During the technology demo, a Cat 255 compact track loader takes to the dirt to showcase next-generation attachments.

The impressive tracks of the Centennial-branded Cat dozer dig into the fresh dirt at Operator Stadium.

Grandstands and viewing decks at the Cat Financial booth were packed with onlookers who came to check out the final days of Cat machine demos.

A Cat excavator gets up close and personal with the Operator Stadium crowd during a series of demos that showcased the latest tech features.

The Cat 938 wheel loader gets in on the action during a jobsite demo where the machines carved the classic “block C” Caterpillar logo into the dirt.

An operator showcases precision work with a dozer blade during daily demos while the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 crowd looks on.

Stadium crews communicate with operators during the live demo, ensuring an exciting but safe performance.

At the Cat booth in South Hall, Caterpillar and Perkins showcase a combined focus on advanced power systems, electrification and digital solutions.

A subject-matter expert at the Cat power systems booth shares insights with a couple showgoers.

New engine platforms and hybrid solutions were on display in the Las Vegas Convention Center South Hall at the Cat power systems booth.

Caterpillar’s presence in South Hall was a look toward the future and a new age of powering customer jobsites.

Engaged attendees appreciate the feature displays at the Cat power systems booth.

More compact and more powerful power systems for more performance and more efficiency were front and center at the Caterpillar/Perkins booth.

The calm before the storm — moments before tradeshow crowds hit the floor Friday morning, the Cat power systems booth has a rare moment of quiet.

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Day 3 Recap: Innovation In Action

It was another full slate of activity here on day three of CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026. At Festival Grounds, that meant a full day of demonstrations and showcases focused on Cat^®equipment, systems and connected solutions can help customers elevate productivity the jobsite. From intelligent machine features to workflow-driven innovations, it reinforced Caterpillar’s commitment to turning advanced technology into real-world results.

And while Operator Stadium was buzzing, the energy carried over to the convention halls as well. In West Hall, Cat Compact shared its unique consultative dealership experience for new and growing businesses looking for practical solutions built to scale. Attendees also got an up-close look at the latest Cat compact equipment — including the new Cat TUL 100. For many visitors, the West Hall experience was a true measure of the ways Caterpillar is equipping the next generation of contractors with tools, technology and support systems designed to help them compete, grow and thrive in an evolving industry.

The New Era of Jobsite Performance

Automation has been one of the biggest conversations at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, and Cat technology is leading the discussion with a proven, jobsite-ready approach. Caterpillar is building on years of success in autonomy in the mining industry to bring scalable automation solutions to construction, designed to enhance performance, improve safety and help address workforce challenges. Visitors experienced how Cat technology is shaping the next era of construction in the Caterpillar Performance Center at Festival Grounds.

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Smarter Rental Starts Here

Cat Rentals^℠ is making the convenience of rental even easier with a digital experience designed to keep you moving. The Cat Rentals Customer Portal puts the power in your hands, making it easier than ever to find locations near you, request rental quotes, view invoices, track rental history and stay in control of the equipment you need, from anywhere. It’s a smarter way to rent Cat machines and support your work with confidence.

Cat D4 Dozer at Operator Stadium at ConExpo-ConAgg 2026

Festival Lot and West Hall Features: Progress Meets Productivity

Early showgoers drop in at the viewing deck at Operator Stadium as Caterpillar kicks off day three of CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 with a live demo.

Different Cat systems were on display as experts spent the day answering questions about their products.

Cat Rentals showcased their online portal through an interactive display in the West Hall.

Jobsite efficiency was top of mind as customers toured the Performance Center in the Festival Lot.

Visitors of the Performance Center were treated with hands-on displays highlighting Cat technologies and innovations.

High winds Thursday were no match for the crews, the attendees or the action at Cat Operator Stadium.

The Cat Technology concept truck was an eye-catching centerpiece in West Hall — but don’t get too attached, it’s not for sale.

During the “In-The-Dirt” walkaround, attendees get up close to the Cat machines responsible for the action at Operator Stadium.

Caterpillar CEO Joe Creed tours the Cat booth in West Hall showcasing Cat Compact, a consultative approach to the dealership experience for new and growing businesses.

The Performance Center in the Festival Lot provided a chance for CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026 attendees to explore the latest Cat technologies.

Next generation compact machines were a main focus in West Hall at the Cat Compact booth.

Attendees could catch the Cat TUL 100 utility loader debut both in the dirt at Operator Stadium and also on the show floor in West Hall.

The booth was packed as CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 attendees explored new machines, services and solutions that maximize the customer experience.

One of Caterpillar’s many subject matter experts discusses the features of the Cat compact track loader with a potential customer.

The Cat TUL 100 utility loader is a first for Caterpillar as it expands its products and services to new and growing businesses.

The Cat Rentals team was ready to answer any questions attendees had during CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026.

CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026 attendees got a close up look to new and exciting Cat Technologies.

The Cat AI Assistant™ display was a popular destination for many attendees at CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026.

The Iron That Will Shape Tomorrow

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Day 2 Recap: Demos In The Dirt & Technology On Display

The second day of CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026 has arrived and things show no signs of slowing down. The iron was in the dirt early at Operator Stadium, showcasing the latest in technology features. Demos included Cat Command, Cat Payload & Grade and the new Cat AI Assistant, dazzling growing crowds with the next evolution in operator assistance. The Spotlight Demo turned the attention to jobsite safety and how the latest innovations from Caterpillar help ensure operators stay safe and secure.

But the machines weren’t the only attraction. A packed crowd at Groundbreaker Stage watched Construction Industries Group President Rod Shurman, Chief Technology Officer Jaime Mineart and Chief Digital Officer Ogi Redzic put automation and service commitment front and center in a conversation that explored how Caterpillar is meeting the needs of their customers today and in the future.

Cat Technology On Display

The Tradeshow’s Biggest Conversations

The Cat^® TUL 100 World Premiere

CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026 attendees got a look at a Cat machine debut. The Cat TUL 100 utility loader marks Caterpillar’s first entry into the compact utility loader category, one of the fastest-moving product segments on the market. Built with growing businesses in mind, it delivers serious capability with a compact footprint. The Cat utility loader arrives at local dealerships in early 2027, ready to go to work.

Uptime, Upgraded: Services Commitment Is Here

The all-new Cat Services Commitment stepped into the CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026 spotlight to show the world what smarter support looks like. This is a next-level promise from Caterpillar to keep your equipment running and downtime in check. Attendees were able to take a closer look at how this evolved commitment redefines the workday in the Cat Services & Solutions Booth at Festival Grounds.

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All Parts Of The Job: Performance, Technology & Safety

Day 2 at CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026. Cat Operator Stadium

Cat machines in their sleek Centennial gray take to the dirt at Operator Stadium during Caterpillar’s early technology demo.

The debut of the Cat TUL 100 at Festival Grounds showcases the brand-new machine’s versatile capabilities with a trencher attachment.

Crowds fill the stands throughout Cat Operator Stadium as day two of CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026 rumbles to life.

The classic Cat D3 dozer makes an appearance before packed stands at Operator Stadium.

Onlookers line the arena perimeter to watch several flagship Cat machines do what they do best.

All eyes are on keeping the jobsite safe as Operator Stadium crowds watch Wednesday afternoon’s Spotlight Demo focused around safety.

The blade of a Cat 160 performs a precision smooth grade across the dirt at Operator Stadium.

The Caterpillar day two Jobsite Demo draws massive crowds standing shoulder-to-shoulder along the outside of Cat Operator Stadium.

A Cat wheel loader fills the truck bed during a Technology Demo performance for CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026 attendees.

Catch The Action & Find What’s Next

Follow Cat^® Construction on Facebook to stay updated on what’s happening on the ground at CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026. From product debuts to next-gen services and tech introductions, get product highlights and behind-the-scenes access straight from the tradeshow floor.

Crowd gathered at the Cat Global Operator Challenge

Day 1 Recap: Cat Global Operator Challenge Finals

It all came down to one day in the dirt, right here at CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026. Thousands of entrants from participating dealerships around the world spent the last year putting themselves to the test to see who among them could be considered the best operator in the world at the Cat Global Operator Challenge.

Nine finalists traveled to Las Vegas this week to compete for that title and today they showed a packed stadium an array of expert skill across three distinct challenges. Featuring a Centennial-branded Cat 938 wheel loader, 320 excavator and D4 dozer, these challenges tested their ability to pair speed and control, power and finesse. They pushed each competitor to prove they could do more than just move the dirt — they pushed them to prove they could master it.

Now Meet Your Global Operator Challenge Champion

After qualifying rounds, regional finals and a single, spectacular day on the dirt at Cat Operator Stadium, one individual tested craft and composure, knowledge and instinct to earn the title of the Global Operator Challenge Champion at CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2026:

Brian Hayden of the United States of America.

From the first lift of the wheel loader to the final pass of the dozer blade, Brian’s performance was defined by confidence and control, exhibiting the breadth of his experience from growing up alongside these machines. Every transition was deliberate, every placement exact, every second earned.

When final rankings were announced and the crowd erupted, Brian’s journey came full circle: from local dealership competition to his appearance on the world stage in Las Vegas.

Today, Brian Hayden isn’t just a finalist. He’s the Global Operator Challenge Champion.

Brian Hayden

Brian hails from Wells, Maine, and built his skills as an operator growing up with his father in their family business, Hayden Excavating. He honed his prowess for the global stage with the support of Milton Cat, and delivered a crowning performance today, winning two individual challenges proving he's worthy of the title Global Operator Challenge Champion.

Team Winner: Team Europe (EAME)

Representing three different countries — Gunter Dewit from Belgium (sponsored by Bergerat Monnoyeur), Nicolai Thomson from Denmark (sponsored by Zeppelin Denmark) and Sebastian Behr from Germany (sponsored by Zeppelin GmbH) — Team Europe brought pride to their continent today as the Global Operator Challenge Team Winner.

Challenges Worthy of the Best

Three challenges. Three machines. No margin for error. Each of these challenges were designed to test a different dimension of elite operator skill. Speed, precision, power, control. Rapid application changes, exacting urban-style maneuvers and precise blade work, all brought to bear in Cat Operator Stadium to crown the world’s greatest operator. Showcasing, once again, this isn’t a demonstration, it’s a proving ground.

Ace of Loaders

Speed plus control were the name of the game in this challenge. Tasked with loading a truck, switching attachments from bucket to forks and transporting and placing a pipe, operators took to the cab of the Cat wheel loader — good time was about smooth transitions, and that belongs to Gunter Dewit.

Street Gambler

With a nod to CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026’s home turf, this challenge featured a manhole cover painted like a poker chip. Inspired by an urban jobsite that demands finesse and precision performance with a Cat excavator, operators tackled a series of exacting tasks, and it was Brian Hayden who came out on top.

Centennial Push

It was a celebration of 100 years of earthmoving with a Cat dozer challenge that set to test all the operators’ limits when it came to pushing and grading. Combining tire pushing, fine grading and pipe placement, it was a challenge that demanded keen eyes and blade control to determine a winner. In the end, the challenge belonged to Brian Hayden.

A Day Like No Other: The Global Operator Challenge

Finalists at Cat Global Operator Challenge

From three regions and eight different countries, nine competitors from around the globe enter the Cat Operator Stadium for this year’s Global Operator Challenge.

Finalists at the Cat Global Operator Challenge

Ready to take on the challenges ahead of them, the operators are introduced to the roar of the stadium crowd along with heartfelt messages from family back home.

Fans cheering on the finalists at the Cat Global Operator Challenge

Friends, family and fans travelled from Australia, Germany, Japan and elsewhere to stand shoulder-to-shoulder in the grandstands, cheering on the operators as they took to the dirt.

Johnathan of New Kids on the Block fame at the Cat Global Operator Challenge

HGTV’s Jonathan Knight kicked off the event as host, setting an unforgettable tone as he interviewed operators and engaged with the crowd both on the dirt and off.

Cat Global Operator Finalist Brock Leclerc competing for the World Championship title

Canada’s Brock Leclerc gets focused during the Ace of Loaders event, featuring the Centennial-branded Cat 938 wheel loader.

Cat D4 Dozer at the Cat Global Operator Challenge

The Centennial-branded Cat D4 dozer digs into a challenge to honor a legacy of earthmoving — the Centennial Push.

Cat 320 Excavator at the Cat Global Operator Challenge

From atop the berm, the Cat 320 excavator makes a long reach in the urban-inspired Street Gambler challenge.

Cat 928 Wheel Loader at the Cat Global Operator Challenge

The Cat 938 wheel loader, in Centennial-branded colors, unloads into a 730 Cat articulated truck during some tricky maneuvers in the Ace of Loaders challenge.