American Polyurea is thrilled to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 Annual Industry Conference, taking place September 18–20, 2026 at the Austin Convention Center in Austin, Texas. This is the premier event for polyurea professionals across the United States, bringing together applicators, manufacturers, engineers, educators, and industry leaders for three days of education, networking, and celebration of excellence.
What to Expect at the 2026 Conference
Keynote Presentations
The 2026 conference keynote lineup features some of the most respected voices in the protective coatings and specialty chemicals industries. Our opening keynote, “The Decade of Polyurea: Infrastructure, Innovation, and the American Market,” will be delivered by industry veteran and American Polyurea President James R. Hargrove. Additional keynotes will address emerging technologies in plural-component application systems, global supply chain trends for isocyanate and amine raw materials, and the expanding role of polyurea in Department of Defense contracting.
Technical Sessions
Over 30 technical sessions will be offered across three concurrent tracks:
- Track A – Application Technology: Spray techniques, equipment calibration, surface preparation, troubleshooting common failures, and quality control methods.
- Track B – Markets & Business: Pipeline coatings market outlook, municipal water infrastructure opportunities, defense and government contracting, and growing your polyurea business.
- Track C – Chemistry & Innovation: New polyurea formulations, hybrid polyurea-polyurethane systems, bio-based precursors, and next-generation curing agents.
Exhibit Hall
The 2026 exhibit hall is on track to be the largest in conference history, with over 60 confirmed exhibitors including equipment manufacturers, chemistry suppliers, protective gear companies, and software providers. Attendees will have hands-on access to the latest plural-component spray rigs, proportioners, and heated hose systems.
AP Industry Excellence Awards Banquet
The always-popular AP Industry Excellence Awards Banquet returns on the evening of September 19. This black-tie optional event honors the outstanding contributions of our members through awards in the following categories:
- Applicator of the Year
- Educator of the Year
- Safety Achievement Award
- Innovation Award
- Young Professional of the Year (under 35)
- Lifetime Achievement Award
Award nominations are currently open through June 30, 2026. Members may submit nominations through the member portal.
Registration & Hotel Information
Early-bird conference registration is available through July 31, 2026 at a discounted rate for AP members. A block of rooms has been reserved at the Hyatt Regency Austin and the JW Marriott Austin at preferred conference rates. Details and registration links are available through the member portal or by contacting our event team.
We look forward to seeing you in Austin this September!
