As we look ahead to 2026, the construction industry is gearing up for a transformative year filled with groundbreaking events and conferences. I’m thrilled to sit down with Luca Calarailli, a renowned expert in construction with a deep background in design and architecture. Luca’s passion for integrating technology and innovative tools into the industry makes him the perfect person to guide us through the significance of these upcoming gatherings. In our conversation, we explore the role of these events in navigating economic uncertainties, embracing cutting-edge technologies, and fostering professional growth through networking and education.
How do you see 2026 shaping up as a pivotal year for construction industry events?
I think 2026 is going to be a landmark year for the construction sector. We’re at a point where the industry is grappling with economic shifts, sustainability demands, and rapid tech advancements. These conferences are not just gatherings; they’re platforms for professionals to come together, share solutions, and prepare for what’s next. The sheer number and diversity of events—from massive shows like World of Concrete to niche ones like the International Mass Timber Conference—show how much the industry is evolving and how critical it is to stay connected.
What role do these conferences play in helping professionals keep pace with a fast-changing field?
They’re absolutely essential. Construction isn’t just about building structures anymore; it’s about adapting to new tools, regulations, and expectations. Conferences offer hands-on learning, whether it’s through workshops, live demos, or panel discussions. They expose attendees to ideas and innovations they might not encounter in their day-to-day work. Plus, they create a space to ask tough questions and get real-time feedback from peers and experts, which is invaluable for staying competitive.
What are some of the major themes or challenges you expect these events to tackle this year?
I anticipate a big focus on technology—think AI, digital twins, and robotics—as well as sustainability. Events will likely dive into how we can build greener with materials like mass timber or 3D-printed concrete. Economic uncertainty is another hot topic; professionals are looking for ways to manage costs and risks in a volatile market. And of course, safety and workforce development will be front and center, especially at conferences dedicated to those areas. These themes reflect the industry’s biggest pain points and opportunities right now.
Let’s zoom in on specific events, starting with World of Concrete in Las Vegas. What makes this a must-attend for concrete and masonry professionals?
World of Concrete is the gold standard for anyone in that space. It’s the largest event of its kind, and it covers everything from innovative 3D products to drones and robotics tailored for concrete work. Held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, it draws a global crowd, so you’re not just learning about local trends—you’re seeing what’s happening worldwide. The sheer scale of exhibitors and sessions means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a contractor or a tech innovator.
Another Las Vegas event, the International Roofing Expo, runs at the same time. What unique value does it bring to the table?
The International Roofing Expo is a powerhouse for roofing and exteriors, and it’s the biggest of its kind in North America. What sets it apart are the interactive, live demos that let you see products in action. I’m also impressed by their specialized education track for Spanish-speaking professionals—it’s a fantastic way to make the event accessible and relevant to a broader audience. Being in Vegas alongside World of Concrete also means you can maximize your trip by hitting two major events at once.
For safety-focused professionals, what can they look forward to at the Construction Safety and Health Conference in Arizona?
This conference, hosted in Glendale, is a game-changer for safety pros and consultants. It’s all about breaking down complex regulations and showing how to use cutting-edge tech to improve safety on job sites. The sessions are practical and focused, helping attendees navigate real-world challenges. It’s a chance to step away from daily grind and really dive into strategies that can save lives and reduce risks, which is critical in our line of work.
How are conferences addressing the push for technology adoption in construction, like at ENR FutureTech in San Francisco?
Events like ENR FutureTech are at the forefront of bridging the gap between construction and tech. Held in San Francisco, it’s tailored for business and IT leaders who need to stay ahead of the curve. They showcase solutions that streamline everything from planning to execution—think software for project management or AI for risk assessment. It’s not just about gadgets; it’s about learning how to integrate these tools into workflows to save time and money.
Networking is a huge part of these events. How do gatherings like the Associated Builders and Contractors Convention in Salt Lake City support career growth?
Networking at events like the ABC Convention is a goldmine for career development. You’ve got competitions like the Construction Management Competition and National Craft Championship, which let participants showcase their skills and get noticed. Beyond that, the industry insight sessions bring together veterans and newcomers to exchange ideas. It’s in these conversations—often over coffee or at a booth—that partnerships form, mentorships begin, and job opportunities arise. It’s about building relationships as much as building skills.
For women in the industry, what kind of impact do events like Groundbreaking Women in Construction have?
These events are incredibly empowering. The Groundbreaking Women in Construction Conference, for instance, is designed to help women network, gain knowledge, and advance their careers in a field that’s historically been male-dominated. They offer targeted sessions on leadership and industry trends, creating a supportive space to share experiences and challenges. Similarly, the National Association of Women in Construction event welcomes everyone but focuses on lifting women up through education and jobsite tours. These are vital for fostering diversity and inclusion.
Looking ahead, what’s your forecast for the role of technology in construction conferences over the next few years?
I see technology becoming even more central to these events. As tools like AI, robotics, and digital twins mature, conferences will increasingly be the testing ground for how they’re applied on real projects. We’ll likely see more interactive exhibits—think virtual reality walkthroughs of job sites or live demos of modular construction tech. These gatherings will also push for collaboration between tech developers and builders to ensure innovations are practical, not just flashy. It’s an exciting time, and I believe these events will be the catalyst for widespread adoption in the industry.
