AIHA Connect 2026 Emphasizes Hands-On Demos, Interactive Experience
Live rescue demos, innovation sessions and networking events aim to deliver practical insights and stronger industry engagement
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Apr 06, 2026
AIHA Connect 2026 is leaning into experience-driven programming, with a lineup of hands-on demonstrations, fast-paced learning sessions and networking opportunities designed to bring the Expo floor to life.
The conference, set for June 1–3 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, will blend technical content with interactive elements to give attendees practical takeaways alongside industry insights.
One of the biggest draws will be live confined space and work-at-height rescue demonstrations. These sessions will showcase real-world emergency response techniques, including fall protection systems and rope-based rescues—offering attendees a close-up look at high-risk scenarios and how teams respond.
On the Expo floor, Innovation Stations will spotlight new technologies and solutions through short, focused presentations from exhibitors. The sessions are designed to give safety professionals a quick pulse check on what’s new in monitoring, data integration and worker protection tools.
Beyond the technical side, organizers are putting a strong emphasis on engagement. Attendees can expect interactive activation areas, informal networking spaces and lighter experiences—including hands-on activities and wellness-focused features—woven throughout the Expo.
Networking will remain a core focus, with a Monday evening reception anchoring the social calendar and additional opportunities to connect across lounges and shared spaces on the show floor.
Other highlights include the AIHF Fun Run/Walk, technical tours and a Career Advantage Fair aimed at supporting professional development and recruiting. First-time attendee meetups and orientation sessions are also planned to help newcomers quickly plug into the event.
Educational content will extend beyond traditional sessions, with bite-sized presentations, research roundups and specialized tracks covering topics such as Total Worker Health and emerging workplace risks.
With expanded Expo hours and a clear shift toward interactive learning, AIHA Connect 2026 is positioning itself as more than a conference—offering a mix of hands-on experience, peer connection and practical insight for OEHS professionals.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco brings a strong and varied journalism background to her role at Occupational Health & Safety, having previously served as a multimedia editor, broadcast journalist, professor and reviewer across major news organizations. As Content Editor, she writes news and feature articles, hosts sponsor and editorial webinars, co-hosts the SafetyPod worker health and safety podcast, and manages the brand’s digital and social media presence. She is committed to informing and engaging the safety community through compelling reporting and conversations that support safer, healthier workplaces.