Leadership Stories | AEM History | Historical Photos
The Association of Equipment Manufacturers’ (AEM) robust history began 125 years ago from a unique vantage point – its industry segments came together to create a fundamentally more powerful voice and advocate for the off-road equipment manufacturing industry. As we give a nod to the past century of accomplishments, we asked our volunteer leadership to share what AEM has meant to them and their organizations. Check out AEM’s leadership stories, their look back and their look ahead to the next 125 years.
For more than a century, the AEM has provided a manufacturer forum for industry- wide action that transcends individual member company size, product line or individual business concerns. Companies participating in AEM work together for the betterment of the industry and public needs, at the state, national, provincial and international levels.
AEM built on the successes and continued the legacy of its founding groups – the Construction Industry Manufacturers Association (CIMA) and the Equipment Manufacturers Institute (EMI). Both groups had a common goal – advocating for better roads that brought products to market faster, safer and more efficiently. Today AEM continues to make noise in Washington, and a key issue is still the need for a superior infrastructure system for improved productivity and quality of life.
2020
AEM changes the ICUEE show name to The Utility Expo. It’s a clear name with one clear purpose: to be the show where the entire utility industry goes to grow.
2019
AEM becomes a partner and member of Commodity Classic’s management committee.
2018
AEM acquires data analytics company Hargrove & Associates.
2017
AEM debuts 'Thinking Forward' event series - designed to provide members with a vision of the future as they prepare to face critical challenges to their businesses.
2015
CONEXPO Latin America was held for the first time in Santiago, Chile.
2004
AEM opened its Canadian branch office.
2002
IFPE is co-located with CONEXPO-CON/AGG. The show was previously held in Chicago beginning in 1984 by NFPA.
The Construction Industry Manufacturers Association (CIMA) and Equipment Manufacturers Institute (EMI) consolidated into AEM - the Association of Equipment Manufacturers.
2001
World of Asphalt was first held and rotates between cities in the U.S.
1999
CONEXPO-CON/AGG becomes the United States’ largest tradeshow across all industries for 1999.
1997
CIMA opens China office.
1989
The Farm and Industrial Equipment Institute (formerly National Association of Agricultural Implement and Vehicle Manufacturers) made their final name change to the Equipment Manufacturers Institute.
1980s
(EMI) became ICUEE (now known as The Utility Expo) show owner and producer after providing industry direction. First held in Louisville in 1987.
1970s
CIMA broadened its membership to include companies from around the world in recognition of the increasingly global scope of the industry.
1969
CIMA introduces its first safety manual.
1966
The forerunner of ICUEE (now known as The Utility Expo) was first held – known as the “Elburn show” held in a field in Elburn, Illinois.
1956
The “Combined Biennial Show,” the predecessor of CON/AGG, was held at the Chicago Coliseum in conjunction with the annual conventions of the NSGA and NRMCA.
1948
American Road Builders Association sponsors the Road Show, predecessor of today’s CONEXPO-CON/AGG. The first Road Show after World War II is held at Soldier Field, Chicago, and is larger and more diverse than any previously held.
1911
First formal meeting of what eventually became CIMA was a November gathering of the National Association of Material and Machinery Manufacturers (NAMMM).
1894
National Association of Agricultural Implement and Vehicle Manufacturers was established. Several name changes followed to reflect changes in the industry.