SMART Factory of the Future Summit (SMART FoF 2026)
Where Innovation Meets Expertise
The SMART Factory of the Future 2026 (SMART FoF 2026) is a premier summit by the Smart and Sustainable Manufacturing Systems Laboratory (SMART Lab) of University of Alberta, bringing together researchers, industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to explore and reimagine the future of manufacturing.
Focusing on Industry 4.0 and 5.0, SMART FoF 2026 highlights advancements in automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, digital manufacturing, and sustainable production, key components of the smart factories of the future. The congress provides a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, connecting academia and industry to accelerate innovation and support the development of smarter, more resilient, sustainable, and human-centred manufacturing systems and processes.
From the SUMMIT Chair’s Desk
Welcome to the SMART Factory of the Future 2026 (SMART FoF 2026).
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the University of Alberta for an event that is more than a summit; it is a platform where innovation, collaboration, and bold ideas come together to shape the future of manufacturing. Together, we will explore how Industry 4.0 and 5.0 technologies can enable smarter, more sustainable, resilient, and human-centred production systems.
I am proud to recognize the AbAMI Hub as our sponsor. Beyond its support for this event, the AbAMI Hub is a strategic partner that shares our vision of accelerating innovation by connecting academia, industry, and emerging technologies. Through this partnership, we are helping transform research into practical solutions that strengthen our industries and benefit society.
If you have ever wondered where the future of manufacturing is being created, I invite you to experience it firsthand. At the University of Alberta, researchers, students, and industry partners are developing intelligent robotics, AI-driven manufacturing systems, digital twins, and sustainable technologies that will help shape the industries of tomorrow. SMART FoF 2026 is your opportunity to step inside, connect with innovators, and witness how ideas become reality.
On behalf of our organizing committee, partners, sponsors, and volunteers, I warmly welcome you to SMART FoF 2026. Together, let us inspire innovation, build lasting partnerships, and engineer a smarter future.
Warm regards,
Prof. Dr. Rafiq Ahmad
General Chair
SMART Factory of the Future (SMART FoF 2026)
When & Where
Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026
8th Floor-Donadeo Innovation Centre for Engineering,
University of Alberta,
Edmonton, Canada
Why to Attend
EXPLORE
Emerging technologies shaping the future of smart and sustainable manufacturing.
SPEAKERS
Hear insights from leading researchers, industry experts, and innovators.
EXPERIENCE
Live demonstrations of robotics, AI, digital twins, and advanced manufacturing systems.
POSTER
Discover cutting-edge research and connect with students, researchers, and industry professionals.
SMART Lab 