Conference Program
- Sponsored by:
- ASC Engineered Solutions
Discover efficiency and growth opportunities in your projects. Learn to utilize value stream maps for tangible business transformation. This interactive workshop demonstrates with real-world cases how to create current and future state maps, plus action plans for optimal outcomes. Elevate value delivery and maximize resource utilization for impactful results.
The implementation of technology continues to be a challenge for many contractors. Success lies in the specific definition of workflow first, then the evaluation of the current technology available to insert into the workflow. Standardization of these workflows enables staff to learn effectively and ramp up quickly in order to drive project success sooner.
- Sponsored by:
- Autodesk
Dive into strategies to show and measure the value of VDC. Top professionals in the MEP sectors will unite for in depth panel discussion. Learn cross-sector coordination intricacies, real-world challenges, and innovative workflow strategies. Explore diverse project management interplay and potential issues and opportunities.
Join experts in a dynamic roundtable exploring the power of diverse backgrounds in shaping construction technology. Discover how inclusion drives innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in the industry.
Join us for a “Hands On Tech” session where we explore FARO’s cutting-edge SLAM technology. Discover how it revolutionizes capturing the built environment, bridging the gap between speed and accuracy in large-scale mobile mapping.
Explore cutting-edge techniques, challenges, and strategies in MEP estimation, fostering collaborative learning for optimal project outcomes. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your estimating prowess.
Explore technology platforms currently in use to elevate fab shop, BIM, and VDC operations. Understand overlaps, gaps, and features to manage data. Decide on tools covering production, modeling, content, and more. This session will showcase how contractors today are putting technology in practice to build their ideal tech stack.
Trade contractors leverage BIM in construction projects to link design, coordination, and purchasing decisions. Digitized product data enhances supply chain-BIM integration, offering insights into delivery, costs, and selection. Industry leaders from VIATechnik, Ferguson Enterprises, and a mechanical trade contractor will discuss VDC-purchasing team communication and model-content updates’ challenges and prospects.
In this session, we will discuss an Apples to Apples comparison of creating an electrical model using Augmenta’s automated electrical design solution vs traditional VDC methods.
The session will follow a case study to compare current means and methods of producing a coordinated BIM Model to Augmenta. We will discuss the hours and tasks in a detailed manner and compare and contrast the use of the new tools. Ideally 2 different types of case studies will be discussed, depending on workloads between now and January. Riser distribution on Multi-story Hospital Project (250,000sq/ft) & Distribution and Branch on Small Hospital Emergency Department Expansion
Participants will explore strategies and best practices for seamless communication and collaboration between field operations and the prefab shop. The session will focus on bridging the gap between the two, ensuring that ideas, needs, and knowledge flow effectively between all team members. Attendees will learn practical techniques for gathering ideas and requirements from the field and effectively communicating them to the prefab shop.
Join a discussion on essential elements for detailing checklists. Participants will share insights on accurate construction drawings, coordination, and quality maintenance. Interactive roundtables promote learning and the exchange of best practices.
This session delves into the crucial aspects of scan coverage and density, discussing how they impact the accuracy and utility of 3D scanning in construction projects. We’ll explore how these factors influence your model’s fidelity and provide tips on achieving optimal scan coverage and density for your specific project needs. Dive deep into the practical application of laser scanning data in widely-used software platforms like Revit and Navisworks. We will guide you through the process of scan data processing and demonstrate its usage in these workflows. Additionally, we’ll uncover lesser-known but critical information about laser scanning, shedding light on aspects that can significantly influence your scanning strategy and results. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner in laser scanning, this session promises to broaden your understanding and enhance your practice of this advanced technology.
- Sponsored by:
- Autodesk
Immerse yourself in our hands-on construction productivity workshop. Join us for collaborative activities, exploring revolutionary construction methods, harnessing technology, fostering innovation, and boosting productivity. Build your portfolio of tools and strategies in an engaging, dynamic, and creative session.
Discover how construction tech boosts service projects. Learn to leverage building data for competitive advantages. Delve into tech challenges, enrich design thinking, and empower sustainable built environments in this enlightening session.
Explore AI’s potential in construction through “LLM and AI.” Discover LLMs like Chat GPT transforming project management, automation, data insights, and decision-making. Learn about AI’s role in design, safety, planning, and predictive maintenance, gaining a competitive edge in Construction AI. Harness AI and LLMs for project enhancement.
Dynamic and engaging, the Young Professionals Roundtable fosters connections among future construction leaders. Explore pioneering ideas, network with industry experts, and fuel your career amidst innovation and collaboration.
Join the discussion on project collaboration while safely sharing data across multiple teams and companies. This session aims to explore effective strategies and technologies that allow for secure and seamless collaboration without the risk of data theft, major discrepancies, or unauthorized access to underlying model data. Explore the importance of establishing clear data sharing protocols, including access controls, user permissions, and encryption methods, to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of shared databases.
Learn to identify and proactively manage risk of burnout at all levels of leadership within your company. This session offers strategies for work-life balance, stress management, and organizational support. Gain tools to thrive while making resilience and well-being a priority.
This session will challenge the attendee to look at innovation from a broad perspective. It is focused on first establishing a comprehensive definition of Innovation. Our first thought is being innovative around the use of technology or automation. We will build upon that with the people-side of innovation. Then we will explore what a culture of innovators looks like. Next, we will then review the actual journey that an industry leading electrical contractor is taking to make innovation a key part of its culture, sharing some of the initial building blocks and some of the challenges that they have incurred along the way. Finally, we will share the steps that can be taken to sustain a culture where innovation fuels the success of the business.
How can technology and innovation drive your workforce development? What strategies can you share about recruiting, retaining, upskilling, and elevating your team. Engage with top minds in this roundtable session to uncover innovative techniques, exchange insights, and collectively drive the industry’s workforce development initiatives forward for your organization.
Delve into construction project management and coordination software in our session. Compare Navisworks and streamlined alternatives for handling large models. Discover Procore’s Model Viewer benefits for enhanced coordination. Learn to choose the right software for improved project efficiency and collaboration.
- Sponsored by:
- Procore
In our general session, dive into the heart of project frustrations: delays. Uncover their impact on schedules, margins, and labor plans. Data can help us to illuminate the recurring culprits of delays and tech-driven solutions can harmonize projects back to the rhythm of success. In this session we will explore data on the top causes of project delays and how technology can help keep things on track.
- Sponsored by:
- MILWAUKEE TOOL
Join us to celebrate the pinnacle of construction innovation and those who champion change within their organizations. During the Innovator of the Year awards ceremony, we will announce the NECA, SMACNA, and MCAA Innovators of the Year and celebrate the visionary leaders shaping our industry’s future through ingenious solutions. Come for the inspiration and leave with techniques to drive innovation in your own businesses.
- Sponsored by:
- Trimble
Learn how to deliver unparalleled tech support for your organization. Develop the tools to seamlessly merges IT expertise with construction technology insights. In this session we will discuss lessons learned and comprehensive strategies to foster collaboration and advancement within the industry’s digital landscape.
Explore techniques and strategies to develop VDC and construction technology leaders. This session will cover vital skills for construction technologists and VDC team leaders, blending technology mastery, leadership, and industry insight for success. Gain strategies for upskilling your workforce and creating the leaders of tomorrow.
During this time, attendees are able to choose from one of the three contractor facilities listed below to tour. Please note each tour costs an additional $150 during your registration process. Lunch will be provided at your host’s facility. For more information about each facility, please visit our tour page.
- Carter Electric – limited to 20 attendees
- Maddox Electric – limited to 20 attendees
- Miller Electric – limited to 20 attendees
This session will explore the benefits and opportunities in 4D scheduling. Learn how to leverage the BIM model to enrich your time-based planning with geospatial data. Visualization of project progression on complex projects can enhance collaboration, reduce rework, and give your teams an edge in coordination.
Discover innovative recruitment methods to tackle the growing workforce shortage in construction. In this dynamic session you will learn from industry experts about diverse roles, non-college career paths, and technology’s role in engaging potential recruits. Participants will share their own journeys and their strategies for youth outreach, internships, and spreading the word on careers in construction. Revolutionize your approach and foster a skilled, inclusive workforce.
Many organizations are working on their digital transformation journey, and it can be tempting to collect a wide berth of digital data, then cherry-pick the points that seem most compelling. However, it is important to remember that data availability doesn’t guarantee its significance. We need to be specific about what to measure, how to collect and consolidate it, and how to effectively present it in accordance to an organization’s goals. In this session, we’ll explore Procore as a case study to gain insights into tracking, measuring, and showcasing meaningful data. We’ll dive into the available data, collection methods, and demonstrate real-time dashboards that provide our end-users with a meaningful data story aligned with their goals.
During this time, attendees are able to choose from one of the three contractor facilities listed below to tour. Please note each tour costs an additional $150 during your registration process. Lunch will be provided at the conference hotel before your departure. For more information about each facility, please visit our tour page.
- Carter Electric – limited to 20 attendees
- Maddox Electric – limited to 20 attendees
- Miller Electric – limited to 20 attendees
API’s (Application Program Interfaces) are the connectors provided within applications which enable contractors to extend the application’s functionality. This session will dive into some specific use cases of how contractors have used API’s to increase efficiency and analyze data.
Learn how to enhance your MEP fabrication database and clean up your data sets. Discover solutions for outdated and inaccurate content, optimizing organization, and rectifying errors. Elevate efficiency and accuracy in fabrication workflows with practical strategies and tools to keep your data clean and useful.
This session will dive into stakeholder synergy in construction projects. This panel will cover a lively discussion between an owner, operator, and engineer as they delve into challenges, practices, and collaboration techniques. Join us as we leverage strategies to gain mutual understanding, enhance relationships, and drive successful outcomes at all levels of project involvement.
How can Model Based Estimating be best leveraged to set up your projects for success? Learn specific software platforms that can drive estimating accuracy in your projects. Using the BIM model during estimating can assist with extracting quantities efficiently, ditching manual methods, boosting precision, and saving time.
How can you best position your teams for design and coordination and what’s the difference? Join us as we develop best practices for collaboration, model accuracy, and setting implicit expectations for project success. The challenges within the VDC process and the roles of coordination team members are explored, along with design strategies and industry best practices to take your projects to new heights.
Explore the strategic integration of construction technology, emphasizing patience and strategic thinking to enhance safety, productivity, and long-term success amidst industry challenges.
Fabricating directly from a BIM or CAD design model saves time and materials, prevents mistakes, and facilitates off-site fabrication. There are multiple Revit-centric fabrication software solutions available but fabricating from AutoCAD or other CAD packages can be challenging. This is a pain point for organizations that want to use CAD for some jobs and BIM for others. This presentation will focus on Therma’s mixed Revit and AutoCAD fabrication workflow using PypeServer software, from the selection of pipe, plumbing, and hanger assemblies for fabrication directly in their models, to fab shop management via the cloud, and nesting/cutting/labeling using both automated and manual tools.
VDC MEP Coordination meetings can make or break a preconstruction budget. They serve the tremendous benefit of providing signed off models (hopefully) at which point MEP trades are ready to fabricate and install. But they also come at a steep price as costly resources participate in painstaking coordination (and re-coordination) effort for often lengthy periods of time. With all the variables that play into coordination meetings, it can be very challenging for MEP firms to navigate them successfully. This course will cover basic education and best practices of productive and efficient VDC MEP Coordination Meetings. There will also be focus on strategies for VDC/MEP coordination to get clash free in fewer meetings. Ultimately, attendees will learn how to get the most out of future VDC Coordination Meetings.
Engage in candid talks with seasoned contractors on software integration pitfalls, vendor sales tactics, and how to navigate true partnerships with solutions providers. Gain insights into challenges and strategies faced during software adoption in construction. Foster better partnerships for effective future implementations.
Discover the transformative essence of the ‘Give a Hand’ charity in this interactive session. Explore how collective efforts create change, and engage in discussions and activities that empower you to make a positive impact on global issues. During this session, participants will learn together, build collaboratively, and create a lasting legacy.
- Sponsored by:
- GTP Software
Gear up for a night of construction brilliance and fun! Our Family Game Night at MEP Innovation is a time-honored tradition that brings together industry experts for a lively, knowledge-packed showdown. Get ready to test your construction tech IQ, win exciting prizes, and most importantly – bragging rights or notoriety for years to come.
Join us for our famous offsite reception this year at Universal’s City Walk. As the sun goes down, the lights begin to shine. Experience the thrill of live street performances, entertainment options, and experiences as we take over three restaurants and parts of the areas in between. Inside our venues, mingle with industry pioneers and fresh faces, all while singing with dueling pianos, live music, and street entertainers. With a fusion of fun and networking, this event promises to be a highlight of the conference. Don’t miss out!
Explore effective project scheduling in this session, covering key elements like critical lead times, contract terms, and stakeholder alignment. Learn to manage milestones, mitigate risks, and ensure clear contractual agreements for successful project execution. From material tracking to data management, join us to dive into best practices for efficient construction operations.
Explore a unique cross-training event as MCAA, NECA, and SMACNA leaders unite to share expertise on upskilling their workforces. Discover insights, best practices, and case studies to train and sustain the advancement of knowledge on construction technology platforms. Foster collaboration and excel in the construction industry.
The ability to visualize the scope of work for a project can be a challenge for Owners, Engineers, and Contractors. The problems that arise under these circumstances are countless. These can vary from clashes between new and existing infrastructure, misinterpretation of the design by the Owner or Contractor, constructability issues, and more. Mixed Reality (MR) provides a new way to review a model when onsite. At first, MR allowed our project teams to identify design issues much earlier in the project than ever before, enabling us to plan our work more effectively. After the value was immediately seen with our use of MR, we knew we had to get our Owner and Engineer partners involved. After a few design review meetings utilizing the MR, we realized that Owners are also able to identify changes they would like to see very early in the design process. This technology has significantly improved our design assistance and installation of the process mechanical work we put in place.
Join us for an insightful session on workforce management tools’ multifaceted applications. Delve into project scheduling, resource allocation, time tracking, and communication enhancements. Gain insights into common software platforms for making informed decisions for your unique needs. This session will explore the process, pain points, and triumphs of implementing workforce management solutions.
Engaging workers, especially in safety, poses unique challenges. Can technology enhance worker engagement, safety, and productivity? Tailoring tech, safety, and worker buy-in to each company is key. Implementing safety recognition with technology, communication streamlining, and reducing paperwork benefits all trades. In this session, MCAA, SMACNA, and NECA safety directors explore these strategies in a panel discussion.
Master the art of discussing technology with your CEO. Learn to convey the value and ROI of technology, challenges, and opportunities effectively. Gain insight into executive decision-making processes for tech initiatives. Elevate your ability to align tech suggestions with business strategy. Strengthen your influence on top-level decisions. Join us for impactful learning and sharpening your pitch deck to drive results.