The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), in partnership with nearly 40 member companies, trade groups, and industry stakeholders, recognised the US construction sector in the heart of the nation’s capital for the 2025 Celebration of Construction on the National Mall.
Over three days, the event showcased the equipment and technologies that are building America’s infrastructure, modernizing its communities and advancing economic growth.
AEM informally declared 14 May, the first day of the event, National Off-Road Equipment Manufacturing Day. The awareness day recognises the men and women who make off-road equipment.
More than 15,000 attendees, including lawmakers, administration officials, students, and families, experienced firsthand the vital role of OEMs.
As a special highlight, AEM’s Manufacturing Express was stationed on the National Mall ahead of its tour across Texas this August. Visitors had the chance to take the Manufacturing Challenge, win prizes, and join the I Make America grassroots initiative to support the 2.3 million men and women powering the industry.
“This event is a powerful reminder of how essential the construction equipment industry is in building a stronger America,” says Megan Tanel, AEM president and CEO. “From creating roads and bridges to powering clean energy projects, our industry is transforming how we build, and we’re proud to tell that story here to the public and federal lawmakers on the National Mall.”
The 2025 event featured more than 80 pieces of heavy equipment, from excavators and cranes to compact loaders and utility vehicles, along with fully interactive educational displays and workforce engagement tools designed to inspire the next generation of skilled trades professionals.
“This year’s Celebration of Construction demonstrated what’s possible when manufacturers, workers, and policymakers come together,” said John Somers, vice president of construction and utility sectors for AEM. “By spotlighting our industry’s innovations and emphasizing the challenges we face, we’re building momentum to solve real challenges that will promote a stronger, safer, and more sustainable construction industry.”
Over 30 lawmakers attended the event, as well as several OEM exhibitors including Bobcat, Case Construction Equipment / New Holland Construction, Caterpillar, Cummins, Develon, JCB, JLG Industries, John Deere/ Wirtgen Group, Komatsu, Kubota, Liebherr, Sany and Wacker Neuson.
