MILWAUKEE, WI, May 9, 2025 – CONEXPO-CON/AGG and The Utility Expo, trade events for the construction and utility sectors, have partnered with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to support mental health awareness in the industry. This collaboration will focus on providing educational materials, resources, and training programs developed for the construction workforce. CONEXPO-CON/AGG and The Utility Expo are owned and produced by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).
The construction industry continues to report higher-than-average suicide rates. This partnership aims to use the trade shows as a setting to share mental health resources and encourage a supportive approach within the industry.
“Our industry is built by people – and protecting their mental health is just as critical as ensuring their physical safety,” said Megan Tanel, president and CEO of AEM, which owns and operates both shows. “By partnering with AFSP, CONEXPO-CON/AGG and The Utility Expo will amplify essential conversations, deliver accessible training, and help make suicide prevention a standard part of how we do business.”
As part of the partnership, AFSP will lead targeted programs at industry trade shows and offer ongoing virtual training sessions for workers in construction. The plan also involves supporting AFSP’s community efforts and helping certify industry leaders in established suicide prevention practices. It’s a practical way to make mental health resources accessible across different levels of the workforce.
“This partnership with CONEXPO-CON/AGG builds on our commitment to the construction industry and our support of mental health in workplaces. By taking actions that help people thrive emotionally, and by providing programs and resources to ensure people struggling get the help they need – we can prevent suicide, said AFSP CEO Bob Gebbia. “We are proud of this partnership and the growing commitment of industries to join us in saving lives from suicide.”
This partnership reflects a growing movement within the construction industry to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and create safer, more supportive workplaces.
Source: CONEXPO-CON/AGG
About CONEXPO-CON/AGG
CONEXPO-CON/AGG is North America’s largest and most comprehensive construction trade show, held every three years at the Las Vegas Convention Center. First established in 1909, the event serves key sectors including asphalt, aggregates, concrete, earthmoving, lifting, mining, and utilities. Organized by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) and co-owned with NRMCA and NSSGA, CONEXPO-CON/AGG brings together more than 2,000 exhibitors across 2.9 million square feet of exhibit space. It offers a platform for showcasing the latest equipment, products, services, and technologies in the construction industry. The show includes over 150 educational sessions tailored to contractors, business owners, and material producers, promoting knowledge sharing and skill development. Drawing attendees from more than 130 countries, it also facilitates global networking and collaboration. While its exact revenue figures are undisclosed, the show plays a significant role in advancing industry innovation and best practices. The next edition is scheduled for March 3–7, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
About The Utility Expo
The Utility Expo, formerly known as the International Construction & Utility Equipment Exposition (ICUEE), is a leading biennial trade show dedicated to utility and construction professionals. Held at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky, and organized by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), the event serves industries such as electric transmission and distribution, telecommunications, natural gas, water, wastewater, and stormwater management. The show spans 1.5 million square feet of indoor and outdoor exhibit space, hosting more than 900 exhibitors and offering hands-on demonstrations of the latest equipment and technologies. It also features over 30 educational field classrooms that cover practical topics like safety, regulations, and operations. Drawing more than 21,000 attendees from all 50 U.S. states and over 60 countries, the expo is a hub for networking and learning. The event contributes around $16.9 million in economic impact per edition. The next Utility Expo takes place October 7–9, 2025.
About AFSP
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), established in 1987 and headquartered in New York City, is a nonprofit organization focused on suicide prevention and mental health advocacy in the United States. With a public policy office in Washington, D.C., AFSP operates local chapters across all 50 states and Puerto Rico, providing grassroots engagement and community-based support. The organization delivers a range of educational and outreach programs such as “Talk Saves Lives,” the “Interactive Screening Program,” and “International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day,” aiming to raise awareness and provide support for those affected by suicide. AFSP is a private funder of suicide prevention research in the U.S., investing in science-driven strategies and public education initiatives. It also organizes national events like the “Out of the Darkness” walks to foster community involvement and fund its mission. In FY2022, AFSP reported approximately $38.7 million in revenue, with 81% directed toward program services. To reduce the risk of suicide contagion, journalists are encouraged to follow guidelines for reporting on suicide.
About AEM
The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), founded in 1894, is North America’s leading trade organization representing off-road equipment manufacturers and their value chain partners across construction, agriculture, mining, forestry, and utility sectors. With over 1,100 member companies producing more than 200 product lines, AEM supports an industry that contributes roughly $316 billion annually to the U.S. economy and sustains 2.3 million jobs. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with additional offices in Washington, D.C., Ottawa, and Beijing, AEM offers services such as advocacy, market intelligence, safety and regulatory guidance, and workforce development resources. It also organizes major industry trade shows including CONEXPO-CON/AGG and The Utility Expo, which serve as key platforms for business networking and innovation. AEM’s mission is to advance the interests of its members through public policy, standards development, and global industry collaboration. With an estimated annual revenue of $15 million, AEM remains a vital force in supporting and shaping the future of equipment manufacturing.