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It’s that time of year again: Advanced Textiles Expo® 2026 is almost here. This year, we’ve worked to create a professional networking and educational experience that is bigger and better than ever before. From raw materials to finished products, the expo brings together the people, technologies, and ideas shaping the future of the textile industry.
The agenda is now live, giving attendees an early look at the hundreds of educational sessions, networking opportunities, and industry insights planned for the event. While we’ve highlighted a few sessions below, we encourage attendees to explore the full agenda and begin building their personalized expo experience. Whether you’re planning your first expo or returning as a longtime attendee, now is the perfect time to start exploring everything the event has to offer.
Who Should Come?
No matter what markets you serve within the textile industry, there is something for everyone. The show represents every corner of the industry, including military and tactical applications, tarps, outdoor recreation, smart fabric technology, marine applications, shade products, and much more. Whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned professional, Advanced Textiles Expo® offers opportunities to learn, connect, and discover new ideas.
Covering the Waves: Crafting Custom Trailerable Boat Covers
Mike Boatman, Owner, Boatman Marine Canvas
Dive into the world of craftsmanship as we explore the art of creating custom trailerable boat covers that fit any type of watercraft. Explore the intricacies of design, materials, and techniques that ensure protection and style for your vessel on the move.
Inside the Signage Industry’s Awning Frustrations: The Opportunity Waiting for You!
Brad Turpin Jr., Associate Director of Content & Training, International Sign Association (ISA)
For professionals involved in awnings, canopies, and shade products, this session offers valuable insight into a growing market opportunity. Many sign companies are regularly asked to provide awnings but lack the in-house expertise to do so. This presentation explores where those gaps exist and how textile professionals can partner with signage companies to better serve customers while expanding business opportunities.
Engaging the Next Generation of Textile Professionals
Karl Aspelund Ph.D., Associate Director, URI Honors Program; Associate Professor, Textiles, Fashion Merchandising and Design
Michael Woody, CEO, Trans-Tex LLC and Chair of the Rhode Island Textile Innovation Network (RITIN)
Robert Finnegan, M.Ed., Head of Education and Workforce, Manufacturing USA Innovation Institute: Advanced Functional Fabrics of America
The textile industry continues to evolve, making it more important than ever to connect with future professionals. In partnership with the University of Rhode Island (URI), the Rhode Island Textile Innovation Network (RITIN), and Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA), this session focuses on strengthening industry connections and inspiring the next generation of talent.
In addition to the expo, attendees can expand their experience through the Emerging Technologies Conference. These sessions require an add-on registration to an Advanced Textiles Expo® pass and offer deeper insights into emerging research, innovation, and technology shaping the future of the industry.
Engineering Anti-Smoke Textiles: Insights from Controlled WUI and Battery Fire Simulations
Prof. Guowen Song, Professor and Lloyd Chair in Textiles and Clothing
Dr. Rui Li, Assistant Research Professor and Project Manager, Iowa State University
As wildfires continue to impact communities across the country, understanding how textiles perform in smoke-exposed environments is becoming increasingly important. Hosted by Professor Guowen Song and Dr. Rui Li of Iowa State University, this session will explore innovative research methods that help create more consistent testing environments and advance the study of fabric contamination and decontamination. Attendees will gain insight into how research and innovation are helping address real-world challenges.
Plants: The Original Textile–Lessons and Applications for Biomimicry
Daryl L. Thompson, Director of Scientific Initiatives, Global Research and Discovery Group
Nature has long inspired innovation in the textile industry. This session explores how plants provide lessons in moisture management, structural strength, and temperature regulation, while also highlighting opportunities to create more sustainable materials. Attendees will learn how biomimicry is helping inspire the next generation of textile solutions.
Don’t Forget the Hotel Block
As you make plans for the expo, be sure to take advantage of the official hotel block. Through the Expo’s collective purchasing power, attendees can access competitive rates and convenient accommodations close to the event.
Booking within the hotel block also helps support future events by strengthening our ability to secure preferred venues, favorable dates, and additional attendee benefits in the years ahead.
With the full agenda now available, there has never been a better time to start planning your Expo experience. Browse the complete schedule, discover sessions tailored to the markets you serve, reserve your hotel accommodations, and begin building your itinerary for Advanced Textiles Expo® 2026.