The AED Foundation (AEDF) successfully hosted its 2026 Instructor's Conference on June 10–11, 2026, in Schaumburg, Ill., bringing together 62 instructors representing 42 equipment, diesel and related technical training programs from across North America, along with 24 industry representatives dedicated to strengthening the future workforce.
The annual conference provided a unique opportunity for educators and industry leaders to collaborate on workforce development challenges, share best practices and explore emerging trends impacting equipment technology programs. The instructors in attendance collectively influence the education and training of more than 3,000 students throughout North America, extending the impact of the conference well beyond the two-day event.
"The AED Foundation deeply values the instructors who dedicate themselves every day to preparing the next generation of equipment industry professionals," said Sean Fitzgerrel, vice president, AEDF. "Their commitment extends far beyond the classroom, shaping careers and creating opportunities for thousands of students across North America. This conference is our opportunity to invest in those educators, connect them with industry partners and provide resources that help them continue delivering exceptional training to their students."
A cornerstone of the conference was the immersive field experience hosted by Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) dealer members. Participants visited three leading equipment dealerships in Illinois, West Side Tractor Sales Co., in Lisle, Vermeer Midwest in Aurora, and Altorfer CAT in East Dundee, where they engaged directly with dealership leadership, trainers, manufacturers and workforce development professionals. These visits provided firsthand insight into current industry expectations, technological advancements, and the skills employers are seeking in tomorrow's technicians.
"As a long-time partner of the AED Foundation, West Side Tractor was proud to host instructors during this year's conference and contribute to the collaboration between schools and industry," said Jennifer Snow, senior vice president of operations of West Side Tractor Sales Co. "We're grateful to be part of AED's continued commitment to workforce development and to helping prepare the next generation of skilled professionals who will drive our industry forward."
Conference programming included OEM and recruiter panels, grant-focused educational sessions, breakout discussions and collaborative problem-solving roundtables designed to help instructors enhance their programs and better align curriculum with industry needs.
The conference concluded with a hands-on skills competition at Streamwood High School, where participants observed and engaged with practical technical challenges that highlighted the importance of applied learning and technical excellence.
The Instructor's Conference is one of many initiatives through which AEDF connects educators directly with industry partners. Through accreditation, career pathway initiatives, instructor development opportunities, student engagement programs and industry events, AEDF continues to strengthen the pipeline of skilled professionals entering the equipment industry, the association said.
"The AED Foundation extends its sincere thanks to the sponsors and supporters whose contributions helped make the 2026 Instructors Conference a success," the association said. "Special appreciation goes to AGCO, CDX Learning Systems, Equipment & Engine Training Council (EETC), Fluke, Goodheart-Wilcox and Komatsu for their sponsorship of the event, as well as Caterpillar Inc. and Altorfer CAT for their valued support and participation. Their collective commitment to technical education and workforce development continues to strengthen opportunities for educators, students, and the equipment industry."
