Hello, I'm
John Somers
Construction & Equipment Industry Leader
Driving innovation by connecting the people and technologies that move the construction and utility industries forward.
Hello, I'm
Construction & Equipment Industry Leader
Driving innovation by connecting the people and technologies that move the construction and utility industries forward.
I'm a construction and equipment industry professional based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passionate about shaping the future of how we build and driving adoption of technologies to create efficiencies on the jobsite and in our lives.
At the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), I lead the strategic direction of the construction and utility sectors. My work sits at the intersection of technology, innovation, and the heavy equipment industry — connecting manufacturers, distributors, and end users to advance the way infrastructure gets built now and in the future.
Exploring how AI is transforming construction equipment, project management, and operational efficiency across the industry.
Advancing the adoption of automated systems and robotics to improve safety, productivity, and site operations.
Die-hard Milwaukee Brewers fan. Whether it's a summer night at American Family Field or catching a game on the road, baseball is a lifelong passion.
Appreciating the craft, history, and nuances of fine bourbon. Enjoying a good pour, sharing recommendations and the stories that come with it all.
Exploring psychology, group dynamics, and how people interact, make decisions, and collaborate in both professional and personal settings.
Promoting standards that enable interoperability, safety, and efficiency across the global equipment ecosystem.
Driving automation, digital transformation, and intelligent systems that push the boundaries of what's possible.
Building and creating with my hands. Enjoying the precision, patience, and creativity required to craft custom pieces.
Building pathways for the next generation of professionals through education, training, and industry partnerships.
Vice President, Construction & Utility Sector
Responsible for the strategic direction of the construction and utility sectors. Leading industry-wide initiatives in technology adoption, sustainability, and workforce development. Key leadership role in AEM's flagship events including CONEXPO-CON/AGG and The Utility Expo.
Industry Events (including CONEXPO-CON/AGG) & Podcasts
Curating and moderating high-profile discussions on global technology trends shaping the construction industry — covering autonomy, AI, drones, automation, cybersecurity, workforce training, and robotics. Featured on multiple industry podcasts and media outlets as a leading voice in construction technology.
Associated Equipment Distributors
July 2022 – Present
Serving on the board of the nonprofit foundation for the heavy equipment industry, working to address the serious shortage of skilled professionals by connecting dealers, manufacturers, and educators to grow a new generation of highly skilled technical talent.
Association of Equipment Management Professionals (AEMP)
March 2015 – Present
Developing core content areas in emerging technology, career development, and fleet management practices. Representing equipment manufacturers to drive advancements, efficiencies, standardization, and new technology adoption across the industry.
Common Ground Alliance
July 2020 – Present
Guiding the Next Practices Initiative to encourage innovation and new practices addressing critical challenges in damage prevention. Leveraging industry data, quantitative surveys, and stakeholder input to advance effective solutions.
North America's Largest Construction Trade Show
Over 140,000 construction professionals from 128 countries gather in Las Vegas for the industry's premier event. Key leadership role in show organization, speaker curation, and the Ground Breakers Stage programming.
Visit SitePremier Utility Industry Event
The leading event for utility professionals, showcasing the latest in construction equipment, technology, and innovations for the utility sector.
Visit SiteWhether you're looking to discuss the future of construction technology, innovation adoption, workforce development, or collaboration opportunities — I'd love to hear from you.