A new partnership reflects a growing movement within the construction industry to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and create safer, more supportive workplaces.
CONEXPO-CON/AGG and The Utility Expo, premier trade shows for the construction and utility sectors, have partnered with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).
AFSP is the largest private funder of suicide prevention research in the United States and a leader on advocacy, education and community engagement to fight suicide.
Held every three years, CONEXPO-CON/AGG is a must-attend event for construction industry professionals.
The show features the latest equipment, products, services and technologies for the construction industry, as well as sector education.
CONEXPO-CON/AGG is owned in partnership with NRMCA (National Ready Mixed Concrete Association), NSSGA (National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association) and AEM (Association of Equipment Manufacturers) and managed by AEM. The next CONEXPO-CON/AGG will be held March 3-7, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The partnership between CONEXPO-CON/AGG, The Utility Expo, and AFSP will soon launch a multi-year initiative to provide mental health education, suicide prevention resources, and training tailored specifically to the needs of the construction industry.
The construction sector continues to face one of the highest suicide rates of any profession.
Through this collaboration, the trade shows will serve as a platform to raise awareness and equip industry professionals with the tools to foster a culture that prioritises mental health and wellbeing.
Megan Tanel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), says the construction industry is built by people, and protecting their mental health is just as critical as ensuring their physical safety.
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“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 of how we do business,” Tanel says.
AFSP will deliver specialised programming at AEM industry trade shows and provide regular virtual training sessions for construction industry workers.
The partnership also includes support for AFSP’s community events and initiatives to certify leaders in best practice for suicide prevention.
Bob Gebbia, Chief Executive Officer of AFSP, says the partnership with CONEXPO-CON/AGG builds on AFSP’s commitment to the construction industry and 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,” he says.
“We are proud of this partnership and the growing commitment of industries to join us in saving lives from suicide.”
CONEXPO-CON/AGG and The Utility Expo are owned and produced by AEM, North America’s premier trade organisation representing off-road equipment manufacturers and its value chain partners.
AEM serves more than 1100 members companies across 200 product lines in multiple sectors including construction, agriculture, mining, utility, and forestry.
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.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing a personal crisis help is available at Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
This article was originally published in the November edition of our magazine. To read the magazine, click here.
