MILWAUKEE (September 25, 2025) – The Utility Expo will bring back its award-winning Community Zone for the 2025 show, building on the momentum that earned it Trade Show News Network’s (TSNN) “Best Community Award” following the record-breaking 2023 event.
The Community Zone will return with a fresh lineup of opportunities for networking, learning and relaxing during the three-day trade show scheduled for October 7-9, 2025, at the Kentucky Exposition Center. New additions for 2025 include raffles featuring custom-etched bottles of Kentucky bourbon, available exclusively to attendees participating in onsite engagement activities. Stop by the Community Zone to learn how to enter.
Located at the heart of the showgrounds, the Community Zone will feature music, giveaways, spotlights on industry professionals, and a few surprises designed to spark conversation.
Attendees can look forward to:
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A meet-and-greet with Churchill Downs legend Steve Buttleman who will welcome attendees with his signature bugle call on Tuesday morning
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Live bluegrass music daily including performances by Louisville’s own Ida Clare quartet
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Daily prize giveaways including custom-etched bourbon bottles branded with The Utility Expo logo
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The Women in Utilities Spotlight and Reception featuring voices from across the utility workforce
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Thought leadership talks including an AA Meet-up led by AEM team members
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Sweet treats at the Louisville Booth with Kentucky-made chocolates and Modjeskas offered throughout the event
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Hard Hat Courage: A conversation on Suicide Prevention in the Construction Industry presented by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
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Panel Discussion: Real voices from the Field presented by Mike Simon, Business Owner at DirtPerfect and Aaron LeBlanc, Lineman at Bobsdecline
Download The Utility Expo app for the full Community Zone schedule. The app can be found on the App Store & Google Play.
The Community Zone first debuted in 2023 as a dedicated space for meaningful connections between industry professionals. With features such as live music, thought-leader presentations and guided networking events, the zone received high marks from attendees and exhibitors alike. The initiative played a key role in The Utility Expo’s overall satisfaction ratings, which reached all-time highs according to post-event surveys.
“The Community Zone reflects what The Utility Expo is really all about—bringing people together in meaningful ways,” said Brianne Somers, Show Director of The Utility Expo. “Whether you're here to explore new tech, catch up with colleagues, or just enjoy a break with some great local bourbon, this space is designed to make everyone feel welcome. We’re proud to keep evolving the experience based on what our community values most.”
Recognized by TSNN for its innovation and attendee impact, the Community Zone continues to grow with industry feedback.
The Utility Expo’s Global Reach has a Local Impact
In addition to community engagement opportunities, the Community Zone will serve as a hub for industry dialogue. Utility professionals can expect pop-up conversations, expert Q&As, and micro-events designed to explore trends shaping the future of the utility construction industry.
The 2023 Utility Expo attracted more than 21,000 utility construction professionals and over 900 exhibitors. Attendees came from all 50 U.S. states and 60 countries, filling 1.5 million square feet of exhibit space.
The custom-etched bottles of Kentucky bourbon found at this year’s Community Zone are a nod to Kentucky’s heritage. The Utility Expo in 2025 will have an estimated $19 million impact on the local economy, according to Louisville Tourism. With record attendance and continued investment in interactive show features, The Utility Expo remains the largest trade show in Kentucky and the third largest in North America.
The Utility Expo will be held October 7-9, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky. Registration and exhibitor information is available at www.utilityexpo.com.
About The Utility Expo
The Utility Expo is the largest event for utility professionals and construction contractors seeking comprehensive insights into the latest industry technologies, innovations and trends. The biennial trade show, known for equipment test drives and interactive product demonstrations, takes place in Louisville, Ky. The next event will be October 7-9, 2025.
About AEM
The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) is North America’s premier trade organization representing off-road equipment manufacturers and their value chain partners. With a rich history spanning over 125+ years, AEM serves more than 1,100 member companies across 200+ product lines in multiple sectors including construction, agriculture, mining, utility, and forestry. AEM supports an industry that contributes approximately $316 billion annually to the U.S. economy while sustaining 2.3 million jobs. Through advocacy, market intelligence, and industry collaboration, AEM works to advance the interests of equipment manufacturers and their partners in the global marketplace.
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