JunCon: Event, Technology, Electronics, Speakers, and What to Expect

What Is JunCon 2026 and Why Everyone Is Talking About It

JunCon 2026 is quickly becoming one of the most influential gatherings in the world of technology, electronics, ham radio, IoT, off-grid communications, and maker culture. Short for June Conference, Jun Con combines a traditional tech expo with hands-on workshops, live demonstrations, networking opportunities, and future-focused innovation.

Unlike many technology conventions that focus only on consumer gadgets or software, JunCon brings together communities that rarely meet in one place. Engineers, amateur radio operators, drone builders, emergency communication experts, hardware startups, educators, and DIY creators all share the same environment.

In 2026, JunCon is expected to grow significantly, reflecting increased interest in off-grid connectivity, mesh networking, 2m electronics, satellite communication, and open-source hardware.

The event is designed for both professionals and beginners. Whether someone is a licensed ham operator, electronics hobbyist, STEM student, startup founder, or emergency preparedness enthusiast, Jun Con offers practical value.

Key JunCon 2026 Facts

Jun Con has grown rapidly since launching in 2021.

Why JunCon Matters in 2026

JunCon is not simply another technology expo.

It serves as a launchpad for industry announcements, regulation updates, emerging hardware, and collaboration.

Three Major Industry Shifts Driving JunCon Growth

1. Expansion of Off-Grid Communication

As global communication networks become increasingly dependent on internet infrastructure, more people seek alternatives.

JunCon focuses heavily on:

• Mesh networking
• Emergency communication
• Independent radio systems
• Low-power digital communication

This makes the event highly relevant.

2. Rise of Maker + RF Communities

Electronics builders now blend:

• SDR radios
• IoT devices
• ESP32 hardware
• Amateur radio
• Drone telemetry

Jun Con bridges these worlds.

3. FCC and Regulatory Announcements

Many regulatory updates are now announced during Jun Con panels.

Confirmed 2026 Highlights

• FCC Technology Panel
• New Technician License Data Privileges
• Satellite communication updates
• Hardware product launches
• Emergency communication exercises

Ticket Pricing

JunCon 2026 Theme: “Connecting the Unconnected”

The 2026 theme reflects a growing challenge.

Millions of people still lack reliable connectivity.

JunCon focuses on technologies that solve this problem.

Core Themes of JunCon 2026

Mesh Networks

Mesh systems create decentralized communication.

Benefits include:

• No internet dependency
• Disaster resilience
• Long-range communication
• Rural deployment

2m Electronics and Amateur Radio

2m VHF systems remain essential.

Jun Con places major focus on:

• Handheld radios
• SDR devices
• APRS communication
• Satellite links

Satellite Communication

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite integration continues expanding.

Jun Con explores:

• Amateur satellites
• Portable satellite access
• Educational space communication

JunCon 2026 Tracks and Educational Sessions

One of JunCon’s strongest features is its educational structure.

In 2026, there will be 8 major conference tracks.

Popular Conference Tracks

Workshop Highlights

Attendees can participate in:

• Build-your-own antenna workshops
• SDR radio programming labs
• APRS tracker construction
• Technician license crash courses
• Satellite communication demos

Free Recorded Access

Every session becomes available after the conference.

This increases long-term value.

JunCon Electronics Expo Floor: Best Technology to See

The JunCon expo hall is highly interactive.

Unlike passive trade shows, Jun Con encourages attendees to test gear.

Must-Visit Booths in 2026

Ham Radio Outlet

Showcasing:

• Icom IC-705 MkII
• Portable SDR setups
• 2m + HF integration

SparkFun Electronics

Expected release:

• Qwiic 2m SA818 Module
• Arduino-compatible RF boards

ARRL Pavilion

Features include:

• On-site license exams
• Membership support
• Regulatory information

AREDN Team

Live demonstrations include:

• Mesh networking
• Portable nodes
• Convention-wide RF links

Swap Meet Zone

A popular Jun Con feature.

Visitors can buy:

• Used radios
• Antennas
• SDR hardware
• Vintage electronics

Test Before Buying

Testing stations include:

• NanoVNA analyzers
• Spectrum analyzers
• Antenna testing rigs

How to Attend JunCon 2026: In-Person vs Virtual

JunCon offers flexible participation.

In-Person Attendance Benefits

Physical attendees gain access to:

• Hands-on labs
• Hardware demonstrations
• Networking events
• Live builds
• Workshops

Virtual Experience

Virtual attendance includes:

• 4K livestream sessions
• Speaker Discord access
• Downloadable resources
• Recorded playback

Hotel and Travel Information

Official accommodation:

Loews Kansas City Hotel

Average conference rate:

$129 per night

Booking deadline:

May 1, 2026

Who Should Attend?

Jun Con appeals to:

• Engineers
• Ham radio operators
• STEM students
• Makers
• Emergency responders
• Drone developers

JunCon and the 2m Electronic Community

JunCon has become a central event for the 2m electronics community.

The overlap between RF technology and maker culture continues expanding.

Major 2m Events at JunCon

2m Fox Hunt Competition

Participants use:

• Directional antennas
• Handheld radios
• Signal tracking

Prize:

$500

ISS Contact Event

A live communication session with astronauts.

Scheduled:

June 19, 2026 – 10:30 AM CT

APRS Balloon Launch

Attendees can track a balloon across the country.

Features:

• GPS telemetry
• SSTV image transmission
• Real-time RF tracking

Special Event Callsign

Jun Con will operate:

K0J Special Event Station

Operating across:

• 2m
• 20m
• 40m bands

Speaking or Exhibiting at JunCon 2026

JunCon encourages community participation.

Call for Speakers

Deadline:

February 15, 2026

Preferred Topics

Jun Con values practical content.

Popular submission ideas:

• DIY electronics
• SDR builds
• Emergency communication
• Open-source RF projects
• Youth STEM initiatives

Exhibitor Pricing

Includes:

• Power access
• Two attendee badges
• Basic booth setup

Why Exhibitors Attend

Benefits include:

• Product launches
• Direct audience feedback
• Community exposure
• Technical partnerships

JunCon vs Other Tech Conferences in 2026

JunCon occupies a unique position.

Comparison Table

Why Jun Con Stands Out

Jun Con emphasizes:

• Hands-on participation
• Hardware interaction
• Community-driven learning
• Affordable access

Many attendees report stronger networking opportunities than larger expos.

Technology Trends Emerging From JunCon 2026

JunCon acts as a trend predictor.

Trend 1: Portable Mesh Networking

Mesh systems continue expanding.

Benefits include:

• Emergency internet replacement
• Community communication
• Rural deployment

Trend 2: SDR Integration

More devices now support:

• Firmware updates
• Software tuning
• Digital signal analysis

Trend 3: Open Hardware Expansion

Open-source hardware growth allows users to customize devices.

Trend 4: Hybrid Radio + Satellite Systems

Modern communication devices increasingly combine:

• RF
• GPS
• APRS
• Satellite support

Conclusion: Why JunCon 2026 Is One of the Most Important Tech Events of the Year

JunCon 2026 is more than a conference.

It represents a growing movement focused on:

• Connectivity
• Community
• DIY innovation
• Emergency communication
• 2m electronics
• Open-source technology

The event attracts builders, educators, engineers, operators, and innovators who want practical solutions rather than marketing hype.

For anyone interested in radio technology, maker culture, SDR hardware, drones, mesh networking, or off-grid communication, Jun Con offers unmatched value.

As communication technology continues evolving, Jun Con stands at the intersection of innovation and accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions About JunCon 2026

1. What is JunCon 2026?

JunCon is a 3-day technology and electronics conference focused on communications, maker hardware, drones, and RF technology.

2. Where is Jun Con 2026 located?

It takes place at the Kansas City Convention Center in Missouri.

3. Can beginners attend Jun Con?

Yes. Jun Con welcomes beginners and offers training workshops.

4. Is Jun Con focused only on ham radio?

No. It covers:

• IoT
• Electronics
• Mesh networks
• Drones
• SDR
• Emergency communication

5. Is there a virtual attendance option?

Yes. Virtual passes cost approximately $25 and include replay access.