Dodge City Representatives Attend North America’s Largest Automation and Robotics Show

Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation Assistant Director of Economic Development Mollea Lightner and Dodge City City Manager Nick Hernandez recently attended AUTOMATE 2026 in Chicago, Illinois, North America’s largest robotics and industrial automation trade show.

The  event brought together more than 50,000 attendees and over 1,000 exhibitors from around the world to showcase the latest advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence, manufacturing technology, logistics, and industrial automation. 

Throughout the event, Hernandez and Lightner met with a variety of automation companies, technology providers, and manufacturers to better understand industry trends and identify opportunities that could benefit Dodge City and Ford County. 

In addition to attending the trade show, Hernandez and Lightner participated in a reception hosted by the Site Selectors Partners (SLP), where they connected with site selection consultants from across the country. The reception provided valuable opportunities to share information about Dodge City’s recent growth and investments, including the expansion of the dairy and food processing industries, housing development efforts, workforce initiatives, and emerging opportunities in advanced manufacturing and data center development.

“Events like AUTOMATE allow us to stay informed about the industries shaping the future of economic development while also building relationships with companies and consultants that influence business location decisions,” said Lightner. “The conversations we had reinforced that Dodge City is well positioned to compete for future investment because of our strong industrial base, available workforce, strategic location, and commitment to growth.”

The visit also provided an opportunity to highlight recent community investments, including Hilmar Cheese Company’s major expansion, ongoing growth in the food processing sector, new housing developments, childcare initiatives, and continued efforts to strengthen infrastructure and workforce pipelines throughout the region.

By participating in national industry events and cultivating relationships with key decision makers, Dodge City and Ford County continue to elevate their visibility among site selectors, corporate executives, and industry leaders evaluating future expansion opportunities across the United States.