Arlington, VA — (November 6, 2025) The American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA) hosted its first-ever Composites Evolution event October 22–23, in Knoxville, Tennessee. The two-day program brought together more than 80 participants including innovators, manufacturers, and suppliers from across the composites value chain to explore the technologies, policies, and business strategies redefining the future of composites manufacturing.
From discussions on regulation and automation to strategies for tax optimization and operational efficiency, Composites Evolution delivered actionable insights and collaboration across the entire industry. Attendees heard from industry experts and tax professionals on how evolving regulations, market forces, and clean technology incentives are reshaping how composites are produced, applied, and valued.
“This event represented more than just an exchange of ideas, but a collective commitment to ensuring that composites remain at the forefront of sustainable, high-performance manufacturing,” said Cindy L. Squires Esq., President & CEO of ACMA. “By connecting innovation, policy, and performance, we’re helping companies future-proof their operations and stay globally competitive.”
Following more than two years of dedicated advocacy by ACMA staff and members, recent Congressional legislation has opened new opportunities for composite manufacturers to leverage tax incentives, enhance sustainability, and strengthen workforce retention. Composites Evolution provided participants with the knowledge and tools to take advantage of these developments immediately—whether through material innovation, process automation, or compliance strategies.
Throughout the event, participants engaged in:
- Material & Process Innovation sessions showcasing next-generation composites and automation tools that improve sustainability, quality, and speed.
- Policy & Regulatory Guidance discussions on how EPA’s evolving styrene rules will impact manufacturers—and how ACMA is advocating for science-based, business-friendly solutions.
- Hands-On Learning & Live Demos featuring advanced technologies and local site tours that brought process improvements to life.
- Strategic Networking that connected executives, engineers, suppliers, and EH&S experts driving change across the industry.
Participants left this event with insight on reducing taxes and regulatory risk, improving throughput and product quality, and improving worker safety and retention.
ACMA extends a sincere thank you to all exhibitors and speakers that participated in this event as well as our event sponsors, Superior and Rheo AI, for their generous support. We also thank Magnum Venus Products (MVP), the University of Tennessee Research Park at Cherokee Farm, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory for opening their facilities and hosting attendees for engaging, behind-the-scenes tours.
As the composites sector faces new environmental and market challenges, Composites Evolution reaffirmed ACMA’s leadership in helping members turn uncertainty into opportunity, charting a sustainable, profitable path forward. ACMA will continue building on the success of its inaugural Composites Evolution through upcoming advocacy efforts, educational programs, and industry events, including the 2026 Composites Fly-In and Thermoplastic Composites Conference. These initiatives will keep the dialogue moving, ensuring members stay informed, connected, and equipped to lead the next wave of innovation in composites manufacturing.
Media Contact:
Eliana White
Director, Marketing & Communications, ACMA
703.665.5208
About ACMA
The American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA) represents the complete North American supply chain for the fiber reinforced polymer (“FRP”) composites industry. We are manufacturers, material and equipment suppliers, distributors, academia and end users, dedicated to growing the composites market. We serve our members and the industry by promoting the competitive advantage and versatility of composite materials. ACMA offers composites industry educational resources through our Education Hub, CAMX, conferences, webinars, and Certified Composites Technician (CCT®) program. We develop standards and specifications that drive preference for the use of composites in place of traditional materials. We lead advocacy efforts via legislative and regulatory channels to achieve a more viable composites industry. Together, we make composites the sustainable material of preference. Visit acmanet.org for information on membership and initiatives.