ISA Automation Summit & Expo 2026
Event Date
September 27–29, 2026
Location
Lake Buena Vista, FL
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe ISA Automation Summit & Expo (ASE) is the International Society of Automation's flagship North American event, built around the theme "Automation Reimagined." The 2026 summit returns to Lake Buena Vista, Florida from 27 to 29 September 2026, featuring volunteer workshops, technical sessions, an expo and exclusive training opportunities.
The conference is organized around three tracks. Attendees can choose from tracks on cybersecurity, digital transformation and career skills to gain insights and advance their journey in the automation industry. The Expo features leading vendors in industrial automation, process control and operational technology (OT) cybersecurity in one setting, letting attendees discover emerging technologies, connect with industry leaders and network with peers.
The event is aimed at automation, cybersecurity and innovation professionals at the management level or higher. Attendees can customize their experience across tracks, learn about cutting-edge technologies and real-world applications, forge new connections with thought leaders and earn professional development hours. It is worth attending for its blend of technical depth, high-profile keynotes, hands-on exhibits and strong networking community.
Show Highlights
- Conference tracks: Cybersecurity (supply chain security, ransomware protection, securing automated systems), Digital Transformation (generative AI, smart manufacturing, cloud, digital twins) and Career Skills (mentorship, networking, leadership).
- Keynote: Michelle "MACE" Curran, former fighter pilot and Lead Solo Pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds, delivers a keynote on 28 September titled "Flying Through Fear: How Vulnerability Fuels Success."
- The Expo: The Robot Experience Hub lets attendees see advanced robotics in action, connect with solution providers and explore practical innovations for safety, productivity and performance.
- AI Primer Workshop: an optional pre-conference session serving as preparation for the more advanced AI deep-dive sessions.
- ISA Honors & Awards Gala: a celebration recognizing automation professionals, awardees, Fellows and scholarship recipients.
- Student Simulation Showdown and post-conference ISA training courses on industrial cybersecurity.
Attendance
The 2025 ISA Automation Summit & Expo included 630 attendees, 65 exhibitors and 67 speakers. The event draws automation, cybersecurity and innovation professionals at the management level or higher, spanning industries such as aerospace, water/wastewater, maritime and industrial control systems.
Registration
Registration is handled online through the official registration form and is organized into parts (conference/expo, training, workshop and gala), which you select on the form.
- Conference + Expo (28-29 September): Early Bird ISA Member 880 USD / Standard 980 USD; Non-Member Early Bird 1075 USD / Standard 1175 USD; Conference + Expo + ISA Membership Early Bird 1035 USD / Standard 1135 USD. When you register for the conference, the expo pass is included.
- Expo-Only: Free with advance sign-up or 75 USD on site. Expo Eats passes are 65 USD (one day) or 125 USD (two days).
- AI Primer Workshop (27 September): ISA Member 225 USD / Non-Member 270 USD.
- Honors & Awards Gala (28 September): Early Bird 250 USD / Standard 300 USD.
- ISA Training (30 September-2 October): IC32 course Early Bird Member 1555.50 USD, Standard Member 1728 USD, Early Bird Non-Member 1944 USD, Standard Non-Member 2160 USD; MT01 course Early Bird Member 1793 USD, Standard Member 1992 USD, Non-Member 2241/2490 USD.
Key deadline: The Early Bird Sale ends on 31 July 2026. ISA members receive additional discounts. Note that conference registrations are nonrefundable after purchase.
History
The ISA Automation Summit & Expo is produced by the International Society of Automation (ISA) as its premier automation event. Following the successful 2025 edition, ISA revealed that the Automation Summit and Expo would return to Lake Buena Vista, Florida from 27 to 29 September 2026 at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. The 2025 event drew 630 attendees, 65 exhibitors and 67 speakers. The event is scheduled to move to the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, TN on 17-19 October 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the 2026 ISA Automation Summit & Expo held?
The event takes place 27-29 September 2026 at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, 1200 Epcot Resorts Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, Florida (in the Orlando area).
Who should attend the ISA Automation Summit & Expo?
It is designed for automation, cybersecurity and innovation professionals at the management level or higher, covering topics such as industrial control systems, AI, digital transformation, robotics and OT security.
How much does registration cost and when is the early bird deadline?
Conference + Expo Early Bird pricing is 880 USD for ISA members and 1075 USD for non-members, with standard rates of 980 USD and 1175 USD. The Early Bird Sale ends on 31 July 2026, and ISA members receive additional discounts.
Is there a free way to attend the Expo?
Yes. The Expo-only pass is free with advance sign-up, or 75 USD on site. A Conference + Expo registration also includes expo access.
How do I get to the venue from the airport?
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about 21 miles away. Options include the Mears Connect bus (about 16 USD one-way) or a taxi/rideshare, which takes roughly 27 minutes and costs about 45-60 USD.
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