Kick off The Future of Design and Construction: An Immersive Innovation Showcase Experience with an informal evening of connection and conversation. Join industry peers at the Diverge Innovation Center for light refreshments, drinks, and networking in a relaxed setting. This reception sets the tone for the day ahead—bringing together builders, designers, technologists, and owners to spark ideas, meet new collaborators, and reconnect with familiar faces.

Start the day by checking in, enjoying a light breakfast, and connecting with fellow attendees before the program begins.

A brief welcome from Building Transformations, outlining the vision for the event and the day’s objectives.

Join Mike Sewell, Gresham Smith’s Chief Digital Transformation Officer, as he shares insights on leading digital innovation in design and construction. Mike brings extensive experience, having led efforts to position Gresham Smith at the forefront of emerging technologies. He has quickly become a nationally recognized thought leader, frequently speaking on the impact of AI and other innovations on the AECO industry. In his keynote, Mike will share practical strategies for digital transformation, lessons from complex projects, and his vision for the future of technology in the field.

Join Jim Barrett, Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer at Turner Construction—the largest general contractor in the U.S.—as he shares insights, perspectives, and lessons learned from nearly three decades of leading innovation on some of the nation’s most complex projects. Attendees will gain a valuable opportunity to learn from his extensive experience and hear candid advice on technology adoption.

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This executive panel will set the stage for the afternoon by exploring how AI, automation, and machine learning are transforming the construction and built environment industries. The conversation will provide insights into emerging trends, practical applications, and strategic implications, while offering an honest reality check on the future of design and construction. The session will conclude with dedicated time for audience Q&A.

Enjoy lunch while expanding your professional network. Connect with peers, speakers, and technology partners.

Participants will move through the Innovation Center in guided groups, experiencing technology in action. These sessions feature real-world case studies and live demonstrations focused on field technology, robotics, AI, and automation—advancements that are redefining how we plan, build, and manage infrastructure across North America.

Participants will move through the Innovation Center in guided groups, experiencing technology in action. These sessions feature real-world case studies and live demonstrations focused on field technology, robotics, AI, and automation—advancements that are redefining how we plan, build, and manage infrastructure across North America.

Participants will move through the Innovation Center in guided groups, experiencing technology in action. These sessions feature real-world case studies and live demonstrations focused on field technology, robotics, AI, and automation—advancements that are redefining how we plan, build, and manage infrastructure across North America.

Round out the day with facilitated, small-group discussions designed to help attendees exchange insights, identify shared challenges, and shape future solutions together. These sessions are a pivotal moment in driving innovation—your opportunity to synthesize the day’s learnings, capture the critical takeaways, and translate them into practical actions you can bring back to your team. This is a session you will not want to miss.

A summary of key takeaways and reflections on the day’s discussions, demonstrations, and collaborative outcomes.

End the day with our On-Site Closing Reception. Everyone is welcome to stay for an informal gathering featuring food trucks, lawn games, and a relaxed atmosphere. This social wrap-up offers the perfect setting to unwind, continue conversations sparked throughout the event, and build new connections in a casual, community-focused environment.