Under the Hard Hat

Tag: AEC

  • Unlock success in architecture, engineering, and construction with association memberships

    Unlock success in architecture, engineering, and construction with association memberships

    Navigating the architecture, engineering, and construction industries can feel overwhelming, especially for professionals seeking growth, resources, or new opportunities. Joining an industry association might seem like just another membership fee, but the benefits often far outweigh the costs. Associations offer valuable resources that can elevate careers and companies, making them a wise investment for anyone in the AEC space.

    What is an association?

    An association is a collective organization formed by professionals or businesses within a specific industry, united by shared goals, challenges, and opportunities. These groups aim to provide members access to tools, resources, and connections to promote personal and professional growth.

    In the AEC industry, associations come in many forms, catering to different professions and specialties. For example:

    • Architecture associations focus on supporting architects with design trends, building codes, and certifications.
    • Engineering associations provide access to technical resources, peer-reviewed journals, and licensure support.
    • Construction associations emphasize workforce training, safety regulations, and project opportunities.

    Regardless of the specific focus, any association’s core mission is to help its members by sharing knowledge and advocating for industry-wide progress.

    The perks of joining an association

    1. Education and professional development

    Associations are a goldmine for ongoing education and professional growth, offering members exclusive access to training programs, certifications, and industry-specific courses. For example, construction associations like the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) frequently provide workshops on the latest safety protocols, project management tools, and construction technology. These resources help members stay competitive in an industry where innovation is constant. Additionally, many associations offer professional certifications, which can boost credibility and open doors to higher-paying opportunities. A report by LinkedIn highlighted that 94% of employees say they would stay at a company longer if it invested in their learning and development—associations can help employers provide that investment.

    2. Networking

    Networking is one of the biggest benefits of joining an association. Members gain access to conferences, trade shows, and local chapter events, where they can connect with like-minded professionals, mentors, and potential clients. For example, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) hosts an annual conference attended by thousands of architects, engineers, and contractors. These events provide opportunities to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and even secure new business partnerships.

    3. Stay up-to-date on your industry

    In AEC industries, regulations and technology evolve rapidly. Associations act as a trusted source of information, keeping members updated on new legislation, market trends, and best practices. Associations such as the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) frequently publish reports on how new energy efficiency standards impact HVAC installation and maintenance. Members often gain access to newsletters, webinars, and research reports, ensuring they are always caught up.

    4. Project opportunities

    Membership in an association can open doors to new projects and business prospects. Many associations provide exclusive bidding opportunities or access to member directories, making it easier to connect with potential clients. For instance, the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) offers a platform where contractors can find RFPs (Request for Proposals) for public and private sector projects. Additionally, networking events often lead to word-of-mouth referrals, enabling businesses to secure projects that might otherwise be inaccessible.

    5. Political advocacy

    Associations are crucial in advocating for their members at the local, state, and national levels. They lobby for policies and regulations that benefit the industry, such as tax incentives, safety standards, or infrastructure funding. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) actively campaigns for affordable housing policies and reduced regulatory burdens on builders. Members benefit from having their voices heard on important issues without needing to navigate the political landscape themselves.

    6. Support system

    Being part of an association provides members with a built-in support network. Whether it’s advice on navigating a challenging project or sharing resources during an industry downturn, associations foster a sense of community. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many associations provided members with resources to navigate government aid programs and implement safety protocols.

    7. Hiring help

    Finding skilled talent in the AEC industry is a challenge in 2024, and associations can help bridge that gap. Many associations have job boards or offer recruitment assistance to connect employers with qualified candidates. For example, the AGC’s Career Center provides a platform for members to post job openings and access a pool of professionals actively seeking opportunities. Additionally, associations often team up with educational institutions to encourage students to pursue careers in the AEC industry, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for the future.

    Does it cost to join an association?

    Yes, joining an association typically comes with membership fees ranging from as little as $100 annually for individuals to several thousand dollars for larger companies. These costs often vary depending on the organization’s size, the membership level (individual vs. corporate), and the benefits offered. For example, a national association may charge higher fees due to its extensive resources, while local or regional groups may be more affordable.

    Membership costs also vary based on the industry and the type of association. Some groups offer tiered pricing or discounts for students, small businesses, or nonprofits, making it more accessible to a broader range of professionals. While these fees may seem significant, they often provide a strong return on investment through networking opportunities, education, and exclusive industry insights.

    Architecture

    For professionals in the architecture field, joining reputable associations can provide several benefits, including networking opportunities, professional development, and industry recognition. Here are some prominent architecture associations in Canada and the United States:

    Engineering

    Engineering associations provide members access to cutting-edge industry research, tools for technical skill development, and opportunities to collaborate on innovative projects. Membership can help engineers stay ahead in rapidly evolving fields such as renewable energy, robotics, and infrastructure development. Here are some prominent engineering associations in Canada and the United States:

    Construction

    Construction associations offer resources for improving safety practices, gaining access to exclusive project opportunities, and staying informed about changing regulations. Here are some prominent construction associations in Canada and the United States:

    Final thoughts

    Joining an AEC association can be a game-changer for professionals and businesses looking to stay competitive in a fast-paced industry. From exclusive networking opportunities to invaluable resources for professional development, the benefits of membership often far outweigh the costs. Whether you’re an architect, engineer, or construction professional, being part of an association connects you with a community of like-minded individuals committed to advancing their craft and improving the industry.

    Ready to take the next step in your professional journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest insights, industry updates, and tips to help you stay ahead in the AEC world.

  • Highlighting women as engineers: Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

    Highlighting women as engineers: Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

    The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is a Chicago-based association that helps empower women worldwide in engineering. It is one of the largest advocates for change for women, offering dozens of programs, memberships, scholarships, events, and even awards. Founded in 1950, SWE prides itself on equality and transparency.

    70 years of women’s empowerment 

    The Society of Women Engineers has empowered women in engineering by giving them a unique voice and place in the industry for over 70 years. With over 47,000 individual collegiate and professional members, SWE is centered around their passion for each member’s success. 

    Although not officially established until 1950, the association sparked in the late 1940s when shortages in engineering resulted from men deployed in WWII. This provided new opportunities for women and female student groups at Drexel Institute of Technology in Philadelphia and Cooper Union in New York City, which began forming local networking activities and meetings. These meetings snowballed into roughly 50 women from four districts forming the Society of Women Engineers, hosting their first annual meeting in New York City in 1951. 

    SWE is dedicated to evolving with growing challenges and opportunities in the technology and engineering spaces. Their main objective is to develop women for professional excellence in their personal lives and careers. They also focus on globalization, women’s advocacy in the workplace, and championing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEI&B).

    Programs that go the extra mile

    SWE offers youth and professional programs for women seeking resources to advance their careers. 

    The youth programs include:

    • SWE Next 
    • SWE Next Connect
    • SWE Next Influencers
    • STEM Pathways
    • SWE Next High School Leadership Academy (SHLA)

    The professional programs include:

    • SWE Learning
    • Digital Credentialing 
    • Mentoring
    • Advance Learning Center 

    SWENext is the overarching program for kids and youth, supporting girls from ages 5 to 18 who want to join the technology or engineering industry. The free program cultivates a community for learning about many career options in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM). It encourages kids to network by connecting with role models, peers, and industry professionals. 

    The programs for professionals include access to community college, compliance training, and endless courses through programs like Academic Leadership for Women in Engineering (ALWE). 

    Thanks to partnerships, sponsors, and donations, some of the education and resources are free, and some are available for an accessible price compared to traditional postsecondary institutions. 

    SWE also hosts events worldwide to help female schoolchildren understand and explore the possibilities of engineering as a career. In 2022, over 200 events took place, reaching more than 10,000 girls. In 2018, SWE also launched a podcast series called SWE’s Diverse Podcasts, which discusses women in the technology and engineering fields. 

    How partnering with the Society of Women Engineers helps your company

    The SWE looks to its members, organizations, and corporations to support its vision of gender equality. It partners with companies in all industries and sizes to fully include women in technology and engineering. 

    Partners can help support critical outreach programs and their initiatives to improve diversity programming in the recruitment, advancement, and overall success of women engineers. SWE has separate sections for information on partnering for corporate councils, professional development, advertising and branding, scholarships, higher education programming, corporate responsibility, and more. 

    Partnering with associations like the SWE shows consumers that your company is committed to amplifying women in technology and engineering, and you’re a proud equal opportunity employer. Current partners include 3M, Amazon, Apple, Bose, Wells Fargo, UPS, and Walmart. 

    For more association and company spotlights, subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

  • AutoDesk is revolutionizing construction with tech-driven solutions

    AutoDesk is revolutionizing construction with tech-driven solutions

    A leader in construction technology, Autodesk has transformed how projects are designed and made worldwide. The company revolutionized digital design with its flagship product, AutoCAD, and has since expanded its offerings to include advanced tools like Revit and Autodesk Construction Cloud. Today, Autodesk’s software solutions are integral to improving the construction industry’s efficiency, collaboration, and sustainability, helping professionals streamline workflows and achieve better project outcomes.

    Quick look

    • Founded in 1982, Autodesk transformed the design industry with AutoCAD, making technical drawings faster and easier and paving the way for widespread computer-aided design in architecture and construction.
    • Over the years, Autodesk’s acquisitions, including Revit, have expanded its offerings beyond design to include Building Information Modeling (BIM) and project management, keeping the company at the forefront of construction tech.
    • Autodesk’s suite includes AutoCAD, Revit, and Autodesk Construction Cloud—tools that improve efficiency, collaboration, and sustainability in construction.
    • Autodesk’s focus on AI, generative design, and sustainability continues to shape the industry, helping construction professionals reduce errors, streamline workflows, and design energy-efficient buildings.

    The early days of Autodesk

    In 1982, John Walker and a group of co-founders started Autodesk with one goal in mind: to make design accessible to everyone. Their flagship product, AutoCAD, changed the game for designers and architects. Before AutoCAD, creating detailed technical drawings was a time-consuming, manual process, but with this new software, designers could easily create and edit digital plans. AutoCAD’s introduction sped up design workflows and established an industry-wide shift toward computer-aided design, making Autodesk a household name in architecture.

    Expansion and acquisitions

    In 2002, Autodesk made a significant move by acquiring Revit, a software that changed the game for Building Information Modeling (BIM). Revit allowed architects and builders to create 3D models of buildings beyond simple drawings, adding details like materials, costs, and schedules. This massive leap for the construction industry enabled better team planning and collaboration.

    Over the years, Autodesk expanded its portfolio by acquiring other key players in design and construction technology. Each acquisition wasn’t just about expanding their offerings—it was about staying ahead of the curve in an industry that was becoming increasingly tech-driven. These strategic pivots allowed Autodesk to offer an all-in-one solution for design, construction management, and even sustainability efforts, cementing its position as a leader in its field.

    Current products and services

    Today, Autodesk offers a robust suite of software solutions beyond design. These tools improve workflows and enable faster, smarter, and more sustainable construction practices. 

    AutoCAD

    AutoCAD remains one of Autodesk’s most well-known products. It’s a versatile tool that allows construction professionals to create detailed 2D and 3D designs with precision. From floor plans to technical drawings, AutoCAD is a go-to for architects and engineers looking for accuracy and efficiency in their design process.

    Revit

    Revit has revolutionized Building Information Modeling (BIM), allowing construction teams to plan, design, and manage building projects in an integrated 3D environment. Revit goes beyond just design by incorporating data about materials, costs, and timelines, which helps streamline workflows and improve team collaboration.

    Revit also introduced parametric design, a feature that automatically updates dependent elements, like walls and windows, when changes are made to related components. This capability has revolutionized design workflows by ensuring consistency and reducing manual adjustments, significantly improving project efficiency.

    Autodesk Construction Cloud

    Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is Autodesk’s leading construction management solution. It combines advanced technology, the industry’s largest builders network, and predictive insights to connect people and data across the building lifecycle, from design through operations. ACC empowers construction teams to connect workflows across every stage of construction to reduce risk, maximize efficiency, and increase profits.

    Autodesk’s impact on the construction industry

    Autodesk has played a significant role in transforming the construction industry through its software solutions, which boost efficiency, improve project outcomes, and support sustainability efforts. Using tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and Autodesk Construction Cloud, construction teams can collaborate more effectively, minimize errors, and streamline the design-to-build process.

    For example, Barton Malow used Autodesk Construction Cloud to enhance collaboration and data transparency on a large-scale automotive project. By leveraging tools like Autodesk Bridge within the platform, Barton Malow connected over 1,200 outgoing and 1,600 incoming files between the project’s stakeholders, ensuring everyone, from architects to contractors, had the latest project information in real-time. This approach aligned with their Lean construction principles, reducing waste and improving efficiency across teams. 

    Autodesk also supports sustainability in construction through its Sustainability Workshops, which can be found on its Hub. The Hub provides resources to help teams design energy-efficient, low-impact buildings. Revit, for instance, enables users to test various materials and energy systems to minimize environmental impact. 

    Looking ahead: What’s next for Autodesk

    Autodesk is at the forefront of integrating emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, into its software to transform the future of construction. One of their key focuses is on enhancing AI-driven pre-design through Forma, and leading the transformation toward outcome-based BIM. By embedding AI into tools like Autodesk Construction Cloud, Autodesk aims to reduce manual tasks further and allow construction professionals to automate repetitive workflows. This shift will enable architects and engineers to focus on higher-level creative and strategic tasks, improving overall project efficiency.

    In addition to AI, generative design is another exciting development. Generative design allows users to input project goals (such as sustainability targets or cost limits), and Autodesk’s software will generate multiple design alternatives. This approach saves time and ensures optimized, innovative designs tailored to meet specific project needs.

    Autodesk is also heavily focused on sustainability. The company’s solutions, like Revit’s energy analysis capabilities and BIM Collaborate Pro’s cloud-based collaboration, are continuously refined to help users design buildings that minimize energy consumption and reduce carbon footprints. Autodesk’s Sustainability Hub highlights the company’s commitment to providing tools that support green building practices, helping the industry move toward a more sustainable future​.

    Looking forward, Autodesk’s vision for the future of construction technology is centered on creating seamless, cloud-based workflows that integrate advanced data analytics, AI, and automation. These innovations will help professionals in the construction industry deliver projects faster, with fewer errors and greater sustainability, positioning Autodesk as a leader in the next wave of digital transformation.

    The bottom line

    Autodesk has consistently pushed the boundaries of project design, management, and execution. Its innovations, especially in AI-driven automation, generative design, and sustainability-focused solutions, are shaping the future of construction technology.

    Autodesk’s software will remain a cornerstone for companies seeking to stay competitive and innovative as the industry evolves toward greater efficiency, collaboration, and sustainability. Its ongoing commitment to innovation ensures that it will remain a leader in the digital transformation of construction for years to come.

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  • Top construction expos and conferences for late 2025

    Top construction expos and conferences for late 2025

    As the construction industry moves into the latter half of 2025, a fresh lineup of events promises to bring professionals together for learning, networking, and exploring the latest industry innovations. From the NECA show to the Utility Expo, these events provide unique opportunities to stay ahead of trends and connect with key players in the field.

    Top construction events of 2025 (July to December)

    NECA Convention and Trade Show

    • Location: West Hall at McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois, USA
    • Dates: September 12–15, 2025

    The NECA Show is a leading event for electrical professionals, offering a strong platform for industry education, networking, and business development. The 2025 convention will feature hundreds of exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge products, tools, and services tailored to the electrical construction industry. Attendees can participate in workshops, training sessions, and keynote presentations addressing the latest challenges and opportunities in electrical contracting.

    NAEC Convention and Exposition

    • Location: Houston Marriott Marquis & George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston, Texas, USA
    • Dates: September 15–18, 2025

    The National Association of Elevator Contractors (NAEC) hosts its 76th Annual Convention and Exposition, a premier event for vertical transportation industry professionals. The 2025 convention will feature over 200 exhibits showcasing the latest products and technologies in elevators, escalators, and related services. Attendees can participate in dynamic educational sessions designed to expand their knowledge base and stay ahead of industry trends. The event also offers numerous networking opportunities, allowing professionals to connect with peers and industry experts from around the globe.

    Autodesk University (AU) Conference 2025

    • Location: Nashville, Tennessee, USA
    • Dates: September 15–18, 2025

    Autodesk University (AU) is an annual event designed for architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and media professionals. The 2025 conference in Nashville will feature keynote presentations from industry leaders, hands-on workshops, and specialized breakout sessions focusing on the latest trends and advancements in design and technology. Attendees can explore innovative solutions and tools in the expo hall while networking with peers and Autodesk experts. The event offers valuable insights and practical knowledge to enhance workflows and drive industry innovation.

    The Utility Expo

    • Location: Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
    • Dates: October 7–9, 2025

    The Utility Expo is the largest event for utility professionals and construction contractors, covering more than 32 acres of exhibits and product demonstrations. The 2025 show will feature hands-on demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and opportunities to try equipment firsthand. With more than 21,000 attendees and over 900 exhibitors, it’s a must-attend event for those looking to stay ahead in the utility sector.

    SMACNA 2025 Annual Convention

    • Location: Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort/Wailea Beach Resort, Maui, Hawaii, USA
    • Dates: October 26–29, 2025

    The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) hosts its 2025 Annual Convention in the picturesque setting of Maui. This event brings together industry leaders, contractors, and professionals to discuss the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the sheet metal and HVAC sectors. Attendees can participate in educational sessions, workshops, and networking events to enhance business operations and industry knowledge. The convention also features an exhibition showcasing innovative products and services from leading manufacturers and suppliers.

    Chicago Build 2025

    • Location: McCormick Place, Hall D2, Lakeside Center Level 3, Chicago, Illinois, USA
    • Dates: October 29–30, 2025

    Chicago Build is the Midwest’s leading construction and design show, bringing together thousands of professionals from across the industry. The 2025 event will feature over 400 speakers across multiple conference tracks, including Architecture, Sustainability, and Real Estate. Attendees can explore an extensive exhibition showcasing the latest products and services from more than 300 exhibitors. The event also offers AIA CES-approved workshops, networking opportunities, and entertainment, including live music and performances.

    Greenbuild International Conference & Expo 2025

    • Location: Los Angeles, California, USA
    • Dates: November 4-7, 2025

    The Greenbuild International Conference & Expo is the premier event for professionals in sustainable building and design. The 2025 conference in San Francisco will feature keynote speeches from global leaders in sustainability, educational sessions focused on cutting-edge green technologies, and an expansive expo showcasing the latest in sustainable products and solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to earn continuing education credits, participate in hands-on workshops, and network with peers who are driving the future of green building.

    Design-Build Conference & Expo 2025

    • Location: MGM Grand, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
    • Dates: November 5–7, 2025

    The Design-Build Conference & Expo is the largest national gathering for the design-build market, focusing exclusively on design-build project delivery. The 2025 conference at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas will feature educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an exhibit hall showcasing the latest innovations in design and construction. Attendees can expect to engage with industry leaders, learn about best practices, and explore strategies to deliver cost and time-efficient infrastructure projects. The event also honors outstanding design-build projects and teams, celebrating excellence in the industry. 

    Procore Groundbreak 2025

    • Location: To be determined
    • Dates: To be announced (based on prior years, typically held in the fall)

    Procore Groundbreak is one of the construction industry’s most anticipated conferences, bringing together professionals to explore the future of construction technology and project management. While details for 2025 are not yet available, past events have included keynote speeches from top industry leaders, hands-on training sessions, and panel discussions on the latest trends in construction. The expo hall typically features demonstrations of cutting-edge tools and software solutions, offering attendees a chance to engage with Procore’s innovations and partner technologies. Groundbreak is an ideal event for construction professionals looking to enhance efficiency, improve workflows, and build meaningful industry connections.

    Trimble Dimensions Conference 2025

    • Location: To be announced
    • Dates: To be announced

    Trimble Dimensions is a biennial conference that brings together professionals from various industries, including construction, geospatial, agriculture, and transportation, to explore the latest advancements in technology and innovation. While specific details for the 2025 conference are yet to be announced, past events have featured keynote presentations from industry leaders, hands-on training sessions, and an expansive expo showcasing cutting-edge products and solutions. Attendees can expect opportunities to network with peers, gain insights into emerging trends, and discover new ways to enhance productivity and efficiency in their respective fields.

    These late 2025 events are filled with opportunities to connect, learn, and explore the latest in construction, engineering, and architecture. Don’t miss these chances to sharpen your skills and network with industry leaders.

    For more insights into must-attend events in the AEC space, subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

  • Top construction expos and conferences for early 2025

    Top construction expos and conferences for early 2025

    As the construction industry gears up for 2025, industry professionals are marking their calendars for key events that promise to showcase the latest innovations and trends. Attending conferences like World of Concrete and BUILDEX offers valuable opportunities for networking, learning, and staying ahead in the field.

    Here’s a preview of what’s happening in early 2025.

    Top construction events of 2025 (January to June)

    World of Concrete

    • Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada
    • Dates: January 21–23, 2025

    World of Concrete is the premier annual international event dedicated to the commercial concrete and masonry construction industries. Celebrating over 50 years of service, the 2025 edition will feature indoor and outdoor exhibits, demonstrations, and competitions. Attendees can expect to engage with leading manufacturers and suppliers showcasing solutions designed to help operations adapt and grow in a changing industry. The event also offers a comprehensive education program covering the latest technology, applications, and business strategies for success.

    AGC Construction Safety & Health Conference

    • Location: Jacksonville, Florida
    • Dates: January 22–24, 2025

    Organized by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), the Construction Safety & Health Conference is a leading event focused on safety and health issues in the construction industry. The 2025 conference in Jacksonville will feature a comprehensive program, including educational sessions, workshops, and panel discussions led by industry experts. Topics will cover the latest safety regulations, innovative safety technologies, and best practices for maintaining a safe work environment. Attendees will be able to earn continuing education credits, engage in hands-on training, and network with peers committed to advancing safety standards in construction.

    Canadian Concrete Expo

    • Location: The International Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
    • Dates: February 12–13, 2025

    The Canadian Concrete Expo (CCE) stands as Canada’s sole national trade show dedicated to the concrete, construction, and aggregates industries. Now in its 7th year, CCE 2025 is set to feature over 350 national and international exhibitors, attracting approximately 8,000 industry professionals. Spanning 300,000 square feet of show floor, the event offers attendees the opportunity to explore the latest products, technologies, and services. In addition to the extensive exhibition, CCE provides a range of educational sessions, live demonstrations, and stage presentations, facilitating knowledge sharing and networking among professionals.

    NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS)

    • Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada
    • Dates: February 25–27, 2025

    The NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS) is the world’s largest annual light construction trade show, attracting over 70,000 visitors from more than 100 countries. The 2025 event will feature over 2,300 exhibitors spanning nearly 1.2 million net square feet of exhibit space. Attendees can explore the latest products and services, participate in over 100 educational sessions, and engage in networking opportunities with industry professionals. The show also includes live demonstrations, workshops, and panel discussions, providing valuable insights into current trends and innovations in the residential construction industry.

    BUILDEX Vancouver

    • Location: Vancouver Convention Centre West, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
    • Dates: February 26–27, 2025

    BUILDEX Vancouver is Western Canada’s largest forum connecting the holistic building industry. The 2025 event will feature an extensive educational program offering sessions of interest to a range of professionals and providing technical updates relevant to Western Canada’s most active development hubs. Attendees can explore new, innovative products, materials, technologies, and services for the entire spectrum of building design, construction, renovation, and property management. The event also offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with colleagues from every facet of the building industry, fostering new business relationships and nurturing existing ones.

    ​​Women in Construction (WIC) Week 2025

    • Location: TBD
    • Dates: March 2–8, 2025

    Organized by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), Women in Construction (WIC) Week is an annual event dedicated to highlighting the vital role of women in the construction industry. Throughout the week, local NAWIC chapters host a variety of events, including educational workshops, job site tours, networking luncheons, and community service projects. These activities aim to raise awareness about the opportunities available for women in construction and to celebrate their contributions to the field. WIC Week provides a platform for professional development, mentorship, and collaboration among women at all stages of their construction careers.

    Canadian Construction Association’s (CCA) 2025 Annual Conference

    • Location: Fairmont Château Frontenac, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
    • Dates: March 11–14, 2025

    The Canadian Construction Association’s (CCA) 2025 Annual Conference is a premier event that brings together industry leaders nationwide. Set against the historic backdrop of the Fairmont Château Frontenac, this multi-day conference offers exceptional content and valuable networking opportunities. Attendees can expect engaging keynote speakers, interactive roundtables, and insightful panel discussions tailored to address the evolving landscape of the construction industry. The conference also celebrates members’ achievements through the National Awards program, recognizing excellence in various categories. Early registration is recommended due to limited availability.

    World of Asphalt

    • Location: America’s Center Convention Complex, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
    • Dates: March 25–27, 2025

    World of Asphalt is a premier trade show and conference for the asphalt industry, attracting professionals from across the globe. The 2025 event will feature over 430 exhibitors showcasing the latest equipment, products, and technologies in areas such as asphalt production, paving, and pavement maintenance. Attendees can participate in the ‘People, Plants, and Paving’ conference, offering more than 120 educational sessions led by industry experts. This event provides an excellent opportunity for networking, professional development, and discovering innovative solutions to enhance business operations.

    ENR FutureTech

    • Location: Hilton San Francisco Union Square, San Francisco, California, USA
    • Dates: May 6–7, 2025

    ENR FutureTech is a leading conference focused on the latest advancements in construction technology. The 2025 event will bring together industry professionals to explore emerging technologies that enhance construction productivity, efficiency, safety, and profitability. Attendees can expect insightful presentations, panel discussions, and demonstrations covering topics such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and data analytics. The conference also offers valuable networking opportunities with key decision-makers and innovators in the architecture, engineering, and construction sectors.

    AIA Conference on Architecture 2025

    • Location: Boston Convention and Exhibition Center (BCEC), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
    • Dates: June 4–7, 2025

    The AIA Conference on Architecture is the American Institute of Architects‘ flagship event, drawing thousands of professionals from the architecture, engineering, and construction industries. The 2025 conference in Boston will feature a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers, over 100 educational sessions, and an expansive expo showcasing the latest products and technologies. Attendees will have opportunities to earn continuing education credits, participate in workshops, and engage in networking events designed to foster collaboration and innovation within the industry. The conference also includes tours of Boston’s architectural landmarks, providing insights into the city’s rich design heritage.

    These early 2025 events set the stage for an exciting year in construction, bringing the latest tools, ideas, and industry connections. Don’t miss out on these chances to grow, learn, and network with the best in the business.

    For more events coming up in the year’s second half, keep an eye out for part two of our guide covering July to December! And if you want to stay current on all the latest construction events, subscribe to our weekly newsletter.