ASHE’s 2026 Health Care Facilities Innovation Conference Set for August

Why It Matters

The conference provides a rare platform for facilities leaders to adopt cutting‑edge decision tools and address escalating cyber risks, directly influencing operational resilience across U.S. health‑care institutions.

Key Takeaways

• Registration opens for ASHE's 2026 Innovation Conference, Aug 2‑5, Minneapolis.
• Event rebranded from ASHE Annual Conference & Technical Exhibition.
• Keynote by Paul Epstein on three‑step decision framework.
• Cybersecurity session by John Riggi addresses emerging health‑care threats.

Pulse Analysis

ASHE’s Health Care Facilities Innovation Conference has become a bellwether for the industry, drawing architects, engineers, and operations leaders who shape the physical backbone of hospitals and clinics. The 2026 edition’s rebranding signals a shift toward integrating technology, sustainability, and strategic planning, reflecting broader trends where facility design intersects with digital health initiatives. By convening in Minneapolis—a growing hub for health‑tech startups—the conference underscores the Midwest’s rising influence in health‑care innovation.

The keynote by Paul Epstein, a former executive in both the NFL and NBA, brings a unique perspective on decision science to the health‑care arena. Epstein’s three‑step process—clarify objectives, evaluate data rigorously, and execute with disciplined follow‑through—mirrors the analytical rigor that modern facilities managers must apply when balancing capital projects, regulatory compliance, and patient experience. Attendees can expect actionable frameworks that translate high‑performance sports leadership into measurable improvements in facility operations and cost efficiency.

Cybersecurity, a top agenda item, is addressed by John Riggi, AHA’s national advisor for risk and security. Riggi will outline the latest threat vectors targeting medical devices, building management systems, and patient data repositories, emphasizing proactive risk assessments and incident‑response planning. As ransomware attacks on hospitals rise, the conference’s focus on cyber resilience equips facilities professionals with the knowledge to safeguard critical infrastructure, ensuring continuity of care and protecting financial stability. This blend of strategic decision‑making and security awareness positions the conference as essential for any organization seeking to future‑proof its health‑care environment.