JLG to present ‘jobsite of the future’ at ConExpo

JLG Industries will present its vision for connected, intelligent job sites through live demonstrations on its booth at ConExpo.

The company will also preview a JLG Canvas Robotics drywall robot, expanding its focus on robotics designed to improve productivity and the worker experience.

At CES 2026, JLG showed micro-sized scissor lifts with leader-follower technology synchronously placing an I-beam into position. (Photo: JLG Industries)

During the live demonstrations, multiple autonomous machines will work together in a coordinated application scenario. Two scissor lifts will transport and position structural materials, while a boom lift equipped with a welding end-effector performs precision welds at height. The demonstration is set to highlight how connected equipment can detect, communicate and coordinate tasks, allowing a single operator to oversee multiple machines simultaneously, said the company. 

At the centre of the demonstration is JLG’s ClearSky Smart Fleet platform, which provides the real-time machine connectivity, through integrated IoT communications and a patented Bluetooth mesh network, to create the wireless, connected job site ecosystem.

While the demonstration focuses on a structural welding application, the technology platform is designed to support a variety of job site tasks, including material handling, glazing, painting and surface preparation. The connected ecosystem also enables predictive maintenance, remote operation and improved equipment utilization.

“JLG’s technology journey is evolving from simply enabling work at height to helping execute work on the job site,” said Shashank Bhatia, chief technology officer and global vice president of engineering, JLG. “By bringing together connectivity, automation and robotics, we’re transforming equipment into intelligent systems that can take on repetitive, physically demanding tasks while supporting skilled workers. This evolution is rooted in listening to our customers and building practical solutions that support safe operation while improving efficiency and productivity.”

Robotics in action 

In addition to the live demonstrations, another highlight of the JLG booth is its Canvas Robotics drywall robot. The robot is an intelligent, worker-controlled drywall finishing solution designed to help contractors improve productivity, consistency and worker experience on interior construction job sites.

The JLG Canvas Robotics drywall robot. (Image: JLG).

It combines advanced robotics and automation to perform multiple finishing applications using a single platform. The machine supports Level 4 spray and sanding processes and is engineered to deliver consistent, high-quality finishes and to reduce wall-finishing touchpoints by up to 40%.

Built with worker support in mind, the JLG Canvas Robotics preview model helps reduce physical strain by minimizing overhead work, decreasing the burden on workers’ shoulders and backs. The system also captures dust and silica, helping improve job site safety and air quality.

Designed for indoor maneuverability, the compact, battery-powered robot features self-driving capability with all-wheel steering, allowing it to operate in tight spaces and run through a full workday on a single charge. Integrated analytics provide real-time machine and site data to help contractors improve productivity, predictability and scheduling efficiency.

“We are building the future of job sites on the foundation of today’s equipment and connectivity platforms, like ClearSky Smart Fleet, and investing in emerging technologies, like the drywall robot,” said Shashank Bhatia, chief technology officer, JLG. “Our focus is on expanding what equipment can do over time. By layering connectivity, automation and robotics onto proven platforms, we can help customers adapt to the changing needs of modern job sites.”