Coating Trends & Technology Summit - CTT 2026
Event Date
September 15–17, 2026
Location
Lombard, IL
Expected Exhibitors
98
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe Coatings Trends & Technologies (CTT) Summit is an annual conference for both liquid and powder coatings formulators and manufacturers to discuss innovations in coatings technology. Produced by Paint & Coatings Industry (PCI) Magazine, the three-day event combines high-quality technical presentations, a resource-rich exhibit hall, and dedicated networking opportunities designed to connect scientific minds, foster innovation, and cultivate new ideas.
The CTT Summit draws coatings professionals from leading manufacturers, OEMs and end users, suppliers, distributors, and academia. Attendees come to learn about the latest advances in coatings formulation, explore new raw materials and technologies from exhibitors, and network with peers across the industry. The 2026 program features 50+ technical presentations, roughly 98 industry-leading exhibitors, and eight dedicated networking opportunities.
It is worth attending for its focused, technical agenda covering both liquid and powder coatings, its concentrated tabletop exhibit hall where formulators can meet suppliers directly, and its balance of education and relationship-building. Optional pre-event Short Courses, student poster sessions, and a keynote round out an event tailored specifically to the science and business of paints and coatings.
Show Highlights
- 50+ technical presentations on liquid and powder coatings innovations
- A keynote presentation opening the educational program
- 90+ exhibitor tabletop displays in a resource-rich exhibit hall
- Eight dedicated networking opportunities, including a hospitality reception on September 15 and a welcome reception on September 16
- Short Courses — four half-day educational workshops taught by coatings professionals and CTT Summit presenters, offered prior to the main event
- Student poster sessions showcasing academic research
- Live streaming of select sessions, available free to registrants anywhere with an internet connection
The 2026 event is supported by a strong sponsor roster, including Diamond sponsor Albert Invent, Platinum sponsors ChemQuest and Revvity Signals, and the Chicago Society for Coatings Technology as a supporting sponsor.
Registration
Registration is completed online through the official event portal. The 2026 rates are tiered by date and attendee type.
Super Early Bird (expires 6/30/26):
- Attendee (coatings manufacturer, OEM/end user, or other non-supplier): $475
- Attendee (supplier, distributor or vendor, non-exhibitor): $575
- Exhibit Hall Only: $350
- Academic: $200
- Exhibitors/Sponsors (additional staff): $450
- Short Course: $275 each
Early Bird (expires 8/31/26):
- Attendee (non-supplier): $575
- Attendee (supplier/distributor/vendor): $675
- Exhibit Hall Only: $400
- Academic: $225
- Exhibitors/Sponsors: $500
- Short Course: $300 each
Standard Pricing (after 9/1/26):
- Attendee (non-supplier): $675
- Attendee (supplier/distributor/vendor): $775
- Exhibit Hall Only: $450
- Academic: $275
- Exhibitors/Sponsors: $550
- Short Course: $325 each
A group discount (Buy 2, Get 1 Free) is available for coatings formulators/manufacturers when all participants register at the same time. The Academic rate requires a valid academic email. Registered attendees may cancel up to 30 days before the conference for a full refund; substitutions are allowed at any time without penalty.
Exhibitors
Exhibitor Information
Detailed exhibitor list is being compiled. Check back soon or visit the official show website for the most current information.
Last updated: July 24, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the 2026 CTT Summit taking place?
The Coatings Trends & Technologies Summit takes place September 15-17, 2026, at The Westin Chicago Lombard, located at 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard, IL 60148, in the western suburbs of Chicago.
Who should attend the CTT Summit?
The event is designed for both liquid and powder coatings professionals, including formulators, manufacturers, OEMs and end users, suppliers, distributors, and academic professionals and students interested in coatings technology and industry trends.
How do I register and what does it cost?
Registration is completed online through the official event portal. Rates are tiered by date and role, ranging from $200 for academics to $675-$775 for standard attendee passes, with Super Early Bird pricing starting at $475 for qualifying professionals. A Buy 2, Get 1 Free group discount is available for coatings formulators and manufacturers.
What is included in a full conference registration?
Full registrations include access to the keynote and all technical sessions, entry to the 90+ exhibitor tabletop displays, the hospitality reception on September 15, the welcome reception on September 16, all conference meals on September 16-17, and digital copies of available speaker presentations.
What airports serve the venue and is parking available?
The Westin Chicago Lombard is about 16 miles from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and 24 miles from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW). Rideshare or rental cars are recommended from either airport, and onsite parking at the venue is complimentary.
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