AEM’s 2025 Celebration of Construction on the National Mall

Manufacturers, Associations Highlight the Importance of the Construction Sector in the United States

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) organized the 2025 Celebration of Construction on the National Mall.

AEM worked in partnership with nearly 40 member companies, trade groups and industry stakeholders to bring the power and promise of the U.S. construction sector to the heart of the nation’s capital.

Over three days, the event showcased the cutting-edge equipment and technologies that are building America’s infrastructure, modernizing our communities, and advancing economic growth. 

AEM informally declared May 14, the first day of the event, National Off-Road Equipment Manufacturing Day. The awareness day recognizes the men and women who make off-road equipment and the industry that builds a stronger America. By hosting the Celebration of Construction on the National Mall during this week, AEM and its partners spotlighted the enduring value of this workforce and the innovations transforming how modern infrastructure is built.  

Attendees Flock to the Celebration of Construction

More than 15,000 attendees, including lawmakers, administration officials, students, and families, experienced firsthand the vital role equipment manufacturers have in keeping America competitive on the global stage and creating family-sustaining careers. The immersive exhibits included the most advanced technologies in the construction industry today. 

Over 30 lawmakers attending this event, including U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler, Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA), Rep. David Rouzer (R-NC), Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN), Rep. Mike Collins (R-GA), Rep. Rob Bresnehan (R-PA), Darren Soto (D-FL), Rep. Addison McDowell (R-NC), Rep. Tony Wied (R-WI), Rep. Vince Fong (R-CA), Rep. Jefferson Shreve (R-IN), Rep. Lisa McClain (R-MI), Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK), Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA), Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA), and more. 

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,” said Megan Tanel, President and CEO of AEM. “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.” 

Exhibitors Included

Policy, Workforce Partners Included

By bringing the future of construction to D.C., the Celebration of Construction on the National Mall continues to strengthen relationships between the equipment manufacturing industry and federal policymakers and regulators, laying the foundation for smarter infrastructure investments, safer jobsites, and stronger communities. 

SOURCE – Association of Equipment Manufacturers