Supercomputing takes over the Windy City: Top upcoming Chicago expos for science & technology

Chicago is preparing to host four major expos and conferences focused on construction, medical imaging, quantum technology and high-performance computing. Together, the events will bring professionals, researchers, investors and technology leaders to the city for education, networking and business development.

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Construction and medical imaging take center stage

Chicago Build 2027 will connect more than 30,000 contractors, architects, developers, real estate professionals, engineers, government representatives and other construction specialists from Tuesday, Oct. 27 through Wednesday, Oct. 28. The event will feature more than 350 exhibitors, 450 speakers and 13 conference tracks, along with AIA CES-approved workshops.

The expo will also include an Architect’s Hub displaying upcoming projects, networking parties and a Festival of Construction with music, performances, food and drink tastings. Organizers describe it as a major networking event for women and diversity professionals in construction, supported by an ambassador program. Chicago Build is expected to serve as a meeting point for the Midwest’s construction industry.

The Radiological Society of North America’s 2026 Annual Meeting will run Sunday, Nov. 29, through Thursday, Dec. 3, at McCormick Place. Technical exhibits will be open Nov. 29-Dec. 2, according to the website.

The meeting will bring radiologists and imaging scientists from around the world together for research, education and discussions about patient care. Its program includes about 2,000 scientific presentations and posters, as well as exhibits highlighting medical imaging equipment, applications and artificial intelligence tools.

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Quantum computing and supercomputing

Q2B26 x Chicago Quantum Summit will mark the ninth year of a conference focused on practical quantum technologies. The event is designed to help attendees share knowledge, assess emerging technologies, identify business value and build technical skills. Its program is aimed at industry professionals and organizations exploring how quantum computing may support future operations.

SC26, the International Conference for High Performance Computing, Networking, Storage and Analysis, will take place Sunday, Nov. 15, through Friday, Nov. 20, at McCormick Place. The program will bring the high-performance computing community together to advance research, share best practices and examine computing’s broader impact. Official event information lists exhibits for Nov. 17-19. SC26 will also offer opportunities for technical exchange and collaboration in Chicago.