The Rhode Island Public Works Association (RIPWA) is set to host its annual Ocean State Construction and Equipment Show, bringing together contractors, public works professionals and equipment manufacturers to showcase the latest industry innovations.
The 2026 event will take place June 17 at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick, Rhode Island, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Organizers say the show will feature a wide range of construction tools, machinery, materials and services, attracting attendees from across New England.
“From heavy machinery displays to hands-on tool demonstrations, the show offers an invaluable opportunity to network with key decision-makers, discover new products, and build strategic business connections,” said Erin Gingerella, administrative assistant at RIPWA. “The event also features educational sessions designed to help professionals stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.”
The event is expected to draw approximately 1,000 attendees, including representatives from departments of transportation, highway agencies, maintenance divisions and construction firms across Rhode Island, Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
More than 100 vendors are scheduled to participate, filling the venue’s ballroom and outdoor spaces with exhibits ranging from small tools and service offerings to large-scale construction equipment. Outdoor displays will feature heavy machinery, while indoor booths will focus on specialized tools, materials and support services.
“We are anxious to see our favorite supporting vendors as well as the many new vendors that have already registered for this year’s show,” Gingerella said.
Attendees will have opportunities to interact directly with equipment specialists and manufacturers, gaining insights into how new technologies can improve productivity, safety and operational efficiency.
“This show is always a great way for attendees to meet and build relationships with the companies they need in order to have a safe, productive year,” Gingerella said. “Many companies also offer great swag, and most attendees leave with a bagful.”
Beyond equipment demonstrations, RIPWA uses proceeds from the show to fund workforce training and safety programs for public works departments throughout the state.
“Our goal is to continue to provide in-person safety training to Rhode Island public works departments,” Gingerella said. “We spent approximately $20,000 last year and anticipate the same this year.”
Training offerings supported by the association include trench safety, CPR/AED certification, flagger certification, forklift and grader operation, snowplow training and winter maintenance programs. The organization also collaborates with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation Local Technical Assistance Program to deliver specialized courses and multi-week academies.
At this year’s event, attendees can participate in CPR/AED/First Aid certification and flagger training sessions, with advance registration required.
The show will also feature the “Build a Better Mousetrap” contest, which highlights innovative, in-house solutions developed by public works teams to improve safety, reduce costs or enhance efficiency.
RIPWA officials said the event remains a key platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, reinforcing its mission to support professional development and strengthen the public works community.
Originally reported by RIPWA in ACP Pub.
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