What You Need to Know:
- CEDIA Expo 2026 features more than 90 free, hands-on Manufacturer Product Training sessions, with more being added.
- Sessions are hosted by exhibiting manufacturers including Crestron, Lutron, Samsung, Savant, Sonos and ADI.
- Topics span audio, video, lighting control, networking, shading, security and energy management.
- Some sessions offer certification opportunities integrators can add to their credentials.
- CEDIA Expo runs Sept. 1-4, 2026, at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver.
What Is Manufacturer Product Training at CEDIA Expo?
Manufacturer Product Training, known as MPT, is a series of free hands-on sessions where integrators work directly with the manufacturers behind the products they specify, sell and install. CEDIA Expo 2026 lists more than 90 sessions, with additional ones expected before the show opens. Each session is designed to build product knowledge, strengthen technical skills and give integrators application insights they can put to work on their next project.
Which Manufacturers Are Hosting Sessions?
Exhibiting manufacturers hosting MPT sessions include ADI, Automatic Controls, Chowmainsoft, Comcast, Crestron, FX Luminaire, Liteline, Lucetta CI, Lutron, PowerShades, Samsung, Savant, Sonos, Sterling Lighting and Unique Lighting Systems. These companies provide direct access to the technical experts who develop and support the products integrators use every day. Attendees can also visit the same manufacturers on the show floor to see products in context.
What Topics Do the Sessions Cover?
Sessions cover audio, video, lighting control, networking, shading, security and energy management. The training addresses both product-specific knowledge and real-world installation needs, spanning residential and commercial AV work. That range lets integrators focus on the categories most relevant to their current and upcoming projects.
How Do the Sessions Work?
Many MPT sessions use guided, hands-on formats that let integrators practice with devices and software directly. Jim Haws, technical trainer at ADI Global, says the approach helps integrators apply what they learn.
“MPT sessions give our team the opportunity to work directly with integrators, use guided self-discovery sessions that allow integrators to get hands-on practice with our devices and software,” Haws says. “Doing it this way helps them specify, install and support our solutions with the utmost confidence. I can’t imagine a more valuable way to spend my time at CEDIA Expo.”
Why Should Commercial AV Integrators Attend?
For integration businesses, the training can reduce troubleshooting time, cut callbacks and improve the client experience. Sessions help technicians and systems designers build hands-on skills, learn installation best practices and understand how products function within complete systems. Some sessions also offer certification opportunities that individuals and businesses can use to strengthen their credentials.
Jason McGraw, group vice president and show director of CEDIA Expo, says the sessions connect the people who design systems with the people who install and support them.
“Manufacturer Product Training is one of the most effective ways for integrators to maximize value at CEDIA Expo,” McGraw says. “These sessions provide an opportunity for those who design and build the technology systems to connect directly with the people who install and support it. For business owners, it is also a chance to bring their teams, invest in workforce development and return to work with knowledge that can immediately benefit both the business and its customers.”
How Can Integrators Register?
All MPT sessions are free to attend. New attendees can register directly and add sessions during the process. Those already registered can access their registration through their confirmation email to add sessions to their schedule.
When and Where Is CEDIA Expo 2026?
CEDIA Expo 2026 runs Tuesday, Sept. 1, through Friday, Sept. 4, at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver. The show brings together integrators, installers, designers and manufacturers across the residential and commercial AV integration community. The full lineup of MPT sessions is available online.
Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister-site CEDIAExpo.com It has since been updated for Commercial Integrator’s audience.
