The International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) has announced an expanded schedule of educational programming for its October 2026 event, bringing together more learning opportunities, more industry collaboration, and more future-focused content than ever before. From hands-on technical training to big-picture conversations about where the industry is headed, IBEX 2026 confirms its place as the one event where the entire marine industry comes together to learn, network, and connect.
Building on its reputation as the industry’s leading technical education platform, IBEX 2026 will feature a broader range of educational sessions, expanded partnerships with leading industry organizations, professional development opportunities, and enhanced integration between classroom learning and the exhibition floor. “IBEX is where the boatbuilding industry comes together to learn, solve problems and prepare for what’s next,” said Aaron Porter, IBEX Editorial Director. “For 2026, we’ve taken a comprehensive look at the attendee experience and expanded opportunities for every level of learning. Whether you’re seeking advanced technical knowledge, professional development, business insights, or a glimpse into the technologies that will define the next decade of boatbuilding, IBEX remains the only place where you can find this depth and breadth of education in a single event.”
A Front-Row Seat to the Future of Boatbuilding
IBEX 2026 is doubling down on forward-looking content that shows attendees where the industry is headed and how to get ahead. Technical seminars will chart artificial intelligence’s growing role in boat design and manufacturing, the rise of robotics and automation on the shop floor, mainstreaming of foiling technology, and the latest advancements in 3D printing. These programs reflect IBEX’s long-standing commitment to putting cutting-edge technology in front of attendees before it becomes common industry practice.
Real Industry Challenges, Real Solutions
IBEX 2026 will also tackle pressing industry issues head-on, pairing candid conversations with actionable solutions. One highlighted session will feature a lead investigator from the State of Florida discussing organized boat theft operations and their growing impact on boatbuilders, OEM manufacturers, and marine businesses, exploring the scope of the problem and the technologies and products available to help combat it, creating a direct line from the education stage to the innovations on the exhibit floor.
Bigger, Bolder Programming on the IBEX Main Stage
As part of the evolving conference experience, sponsored Tech Talks and educational content previously housed in dedicated areas will now be featured on the IBEX Main Stage, right on the show floor. This new experience will give attendees greater insight and access to the products, ideas, and leaders shaping the industry’s future. The Main Stage will host a lineup of free educational opportunities, including presentations from marine industry innovators and leaders whose expertise can help drive the next wave of innovation in boating.
Thought Leadership and the Next Generation, Together
Rounding out the 2026 program, IBEX will once again host the Marine Ideas Exchange (MIX), bringing together top industry leaders for candid, high-level conversations on the trends and strategies shaping the business of boating. And with an eye on the industry’s future workforce, IBEX will expand its Emerging Marine Leaders (EML) programming and Career Day events, creating dedicated space for young professionals and rising leaders to build skills, make connections, and find their path in the marine industry.
Expanded support from educational partners, including the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC), National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA), American Boat Builders & Repairers Association (ABBRA), and International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI), will provide attendees with access to expert-led sessions covering key industry topics and technical certifications. Technical seminars contribute to continuing education units (CEUs), giving attendees added value toward their professional credentials and solidifying IBEX as the marine industry’s biggest value investment in professional development.
The expanded program reflects IBEX’s ongoing commitment to bringing together every corner of the marine industry; from seasoned veterans to the next generation of talent to collaborate, share knowledge, and accelerate innovation.
IBEX 2026 will return to the Tampa Convention Center, October 6-8, 2026. For tickets and more information on IBEX’s full slate of educational opportunities, visit www.ibexshow.com.
