Gary Shapiro to Step Down as CTA CEO After 35 Years, CES Legacy Secured

Gary Shapiro, the longtime CEO of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), has announced plans to step down from his role effective May 1, 2026, after more than 35 years at the helm of the organization that produces the annual CES technology conference in Las Vegas.

The transition comes as CTA President Kinsey Fabrizio prepares to succeed Shapiro, marking the end of an era for one of the tech industry's most influential trade associations. Shapiro's tenure has spanned the evolution of consumer technology from analog to digital, overseeing CES's transformation from a regional electronics show to the world's largest and most influential technology conference.

Under Shapiro's leadership, CES grew from a modest gathering of electronics manufacturers to a global phenomenon attracting over 130,000 attendees and 4,000 exhibitors in recent years. The conference has become the premier stage for major product launches, from the VCR and DVD to smart home devices and autonomous vehicles.

"Gary Shapiro has been an extraordinary leader for the Consumer Technology Association and the entire tech industry," said CTA Board Chair Gary Shapiro in a statement. "His vision and dedication have helped shape the future of technology and innovation for decades."

The timing of Shapiro's departure coincides with a period of significant change in the technology industry, with artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and other emerging technologies reshaping the landscape that CES covers. Fabrizio, who has served as CTA President since 2020, has been instrumental in expanding the show's focus to include these new technology categories.

Industry analysts note that Shapiro's departure represents more than just a leadership change—it signals a generational shift in how the tech industry organizes and presents itself. During his tenure, Shapiro became known for his advocacy on issues ranging from immigration reform for tech workers to patent reform and free trade policies that benefit the technology sector.

"Gary has been the face of consumer technology for a generation," said technology analyst Tim Bajarin. "His ability to navigate the industry through multiple technological revolutions while maintaining CES's relevance has been remarkable."

The transition plan includes a period of overlap between Shapiro and Fabrizio to ensure continuity in CTA's operations and strategic initiatives. The organization has not yet announced specific plans for CES 2027, though industry insiders expect the show to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation under new leadership.

Shapiro's legacy includes not only the expansion of CES but also his role in establishing technology policy priorities that have influenced legislation and regulation across multiple administrations. His advocacy work has helped shape policies on everything from net neutrality to international trade agreements affecting the tech sector.

As the tech industry continues to grapple with issues like AI regulation, data privacy, and the societal impact of emerging technologies, the leadership transition at CTA comes at a critical juncture. Fabrizio will inherit an organization that plays a central role in setting the agenda for the global technology industry.

"The Consumer Technology Association is well-positioned for the future," Fabrizio said in a statement. "I look forward to building on Gary's tremendous legacy and continuing to advance innovation that improves lives around the world."

The announcement has prompted reflection across the tech industry about the evolution of consumer technology and the role that trade associations and industry events play in shaping its future. As CES continues to adapt to new technological paradigms, the leadership transition represents both an ending and a beginning for one of tech's most enduring institutions.

Shapiro has not announced specific post-retirement plans, though industry sources suggest he may continue to be involved in technology policy advocacy and industry commentary. His departure from CTA marks the conclusion of one of the longest tenures of any tech industry executive, spanning the rise of personal computing, the internet revolution, mobile technology, and the current AI boom.

The Consumer Technology Association, formerly known as the Consumer Electronics Association, has grown from representing a few hundred companies to over 2,000 members under Shapiro's leadership, encompassing everything from startups to the world's largest technology corporations.

As the May 2026 transition date approaches, the tech industry will be watching closely to see how Fabrizio navigates the challenges of maintaining CES's relevance while addressing the complex policy issues facing technology companies in an increasingly regulated and scrutinized environment.