23 Best Construction Conferences 2023-2024
- The construction industry is rapidly evolving, and technology plays a more critical role in enhancing the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of the industry. But the most important element of construction will always be its people.
- Conferences offer a great opportunity for construction professionals to come together and get the hands-on education, discussions, and learning that accelerate careers and the industry overall.
- With so many construction conferences to choose from, we curated a list with the best of the best. Check out these best global construction conferences and find the one (or three) that most pique your interest.
January - March
Date and Location: January 22-25, 2024 in Las Vegas, NV
Format: In-person
For over 50 years, World of Concrete has connected global leaders in the concrete and masonry industries. As concrete combines cement, water, and aggregate, World of Concrete combines knowledge, equipment, and connections. Learn about the latest training and techniques available in concrete and masonry from the 1,500 exhibits in over 700,00 square feet of space. From concrete reinforcement to material handling to precast, if it involves concrete, you’ll find it at World of Concrete.
Bonus: Experience interactive exhibits that highlight work trucks and innovative accessories, like Work Truck Live.
Best for: Concrete designers and contractors, material suppliers and vendors, self-perform contractors
Date and Location: February 26-29, 2024 in Denver, Colorado
Format: In-person
It’s without a doubt prefabrication has revolutionized construction—Advancing Prefabrication highlights these feats and sets the stage for an even brighter future in the world of prefabrication, modularization, and supply chain transformation. Hear from industry leaders and attend offsite facility tours to see new manufacturing methodologies in action. Past events featured curated event roadmaps, so attendees can gear their experience toward a specific focus, like design optimization or packaging and logistics.
Bonus: Meet leaders in your market with market-specific focus days.
Best for: General contractors, steel, concrete and MEP designers, builders and manufacturers, material suppliers and vendors, project owners
3. International Builders' Show
Date and Location: February 27-29, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada
Format: In-person
Organized by the National Association of Home Builders, this show features a wide range of educational seminars, workshops, and exhibits showcasing the latest products, technologies, business strategies, and services in the residential construction industry. There are over 1,400 exhibitors and 100 knowledge sessions, hands-on lab learning, and master workshops to ensure that attendees leave with actionable items that can be applied to their business right away.
Bonus: Various communities are available for networking, exploring new ideas, and refining skills in your specific niche in the residential building industry.
Best for: Residential contractors and remodelers, architects, and sales professionals
Date and Location: March 3-7, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada
Format: In-person
ConExpo self-proclaims to be the largest construction trade show in all of North America. With over 1,800 exhibitors and 2.7 million square feet of exhibit space, the event showcases the latest in construction equipment, services, and technologies. From cranes to power tools and everything in between, attendees can get hands-on experience with construction equipment available from top manufacturers.
Bonus: Attend one of the 150 education sessions on topics and trends in aggregates, concrete, and more.
Best for: Heavy civil and construction industry professionals, equipment managers, self-perform contractors
April - June
5. International Conference on Civil, Structural, and Transportation Engineering
Date and Location: June 4-6, 2023 in Ottawa, Canada
Format: In-person and virtual
The 8th International Conference on Civil, Structural, and Transportation Engineering is where scholars from all over the world present advances in their relevant fields, and exchange ideas and information. This conference provides the ideal environment for developing new collaborations and meeting experts on the fundamentals, applications, and products of civil, structural, and transportation engineering.
Bonus: The conference proceedings will be indexed by Scopus, Google Scholar, and Semantic Scholar for those who can't attend but still want to geek out on all things engineering.
Best for: Researchers, academics
Date and Location: June 5-7, 2023 in San Francisco, CA
Format: In-person
ENR FutureTech dives into the future of construction technology. The event features interactive sessions conducted by leaders in the AEC industry who share their experience adopting technologies and forecasting future digital transformations. In 2022, leaders from top construction technology start-ups and established firms shared their insights and innovations.
Bonus: A focus on networking makes this event a smart investment in your career.
Best for: AEC industry professionals, BIM managers, technology officers, construction technology enthusiasts
7. AIA Conference on Architecture
Date and Location: June 7-10, 2023 in San Francisco, CA
Format: In-person, virtual, or both
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) hosts an annual conference described as the architecture and design event of the year. The three-day event focuses on what’s new in architecture, with talks hosted by some of the world's most creative architects, designers, and firms. AIA hopes every attendee leaves with actionable insights on how to design more resilient projects. Past events have offered exclusive tours of remarkable architectural projects throughout the host city.
Bonus: Stack up on continuing education credits by attending conference workshops and training sessions.
Best for: Architects and designers, AEC industry professionals, project owners
July - September
Date and Location: August 3-6, 2023 in Shanghai, China
Format: In-person
BAU CHINA is a combination of multiple industry events, the two major ones being Fenestration Bau China and China Architectural Design Expo (CADE). Fenestration is a super expo on building system solutions, showcasing over 1,200 leading industry brands and detailing new industry trends and technologies. CADE features exhibits and events focused on the future of building in China, with over 200 architects presenting new ideas for the development of global urban architecture.
Bonus: Experience the cluster of events all part of BAU China, including Fenestration, CADE, Realtech Expo, and more.
Best for: Building designers and builders, construction industry professionals, construction technology enthusiasts, project owners
Date and Location: September 6, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada
Format: In-person
Widely regarded as the most comprehensive event on the built environment in the Asia Pacific, BEX Asia attracts over 9,000 attendees from over 48 countries and aims to connect innovators, solution providers, distributors, and sellers with decision makers, buyers, and specifiers to generate successful business connections.
Bonus: BEX Asia includes events focused on energy-efficient solutions in MEP, solar, and renewable energy; innovative construction materials; and smart facility management, security, and surveillance.
Best for: Architects, builders, contractors, engineers, and suppliers who work in the Asia region
10. Greenbuild International Conference and Expo
Date and Location: September 26-29, 2023 in Washington, D.C.
Format: In-person
Greenbuild connects today and tomorrow's green building industry leaders to re-imagine what it means to build green. Participate in sessions and hear from green building experts on best practices to create greener communities, better workplaces, equitable programs, and new sustainable solutions. The event marks the 21st year of Greenbuild and is rightfully held in Washington, D.C., where the groundwork for developing healthier American buildings and communities is laid.
Bonus: The conference includes many continuing education courses, with approved GBCI and AIA credits.
Best for: Building designers and builders, construction industry professionals, sustainability managers, green construction enthusiasts
11. National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Convention and Trade Show
Date and Location: September 29-October 2, 2023 In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Format: In-person and virtual
This event, hosted by the National Electrical Contractors Association, features both a tradeshow and convention showcasing the latest in electrical products and technologies. Companies and professionals in the power, light, energy, and communication industries will not want to miss the workshops and sessions presented by industry leaders. Can’t make it to Philly? The convention is hybrid, offering virtual access to the same quality education, networking, and products in a digital atmosphere.
Bonus: Visit the Showstopper Showcase to view the most innovative electrical products and services in one place.
Best for: Electrical designers, electrical contractors, project owners
Date and Location: September 30-October 3, 2024 in Paris, France
Format: In-person
Held biennially in Paris, Batimat is one of the largest trade shows in the construction industry. It is dedicated to showcasing the latest innovations and technologies and features over 1,700 exhibitors. Attendees can expect to see the latest products related to building construction, automation, renewable energy, and sustainable construction, in addition to taking advantage of networking and workshops.
Bonus: The Interclima and Ideobain trade shows have banded together under the Batimat roof to bring even more energy efficiency and bathroom professionals, suppliers, and contractors together.
Best for: Commercial and residential builders and distributors
October - December
Date and Location: October 19, 2023 in Washington, D.C.
Format: In-person
Women make up only 10.3 percent of those working in the built environment. This one-day event promotes the opportunities for women in construction and the efforts needed to build a welcoming culture. Sessions include topics on mentorship, collaboration, bias, best practices, and more. Attendance is encouraged by all who wish to promote women in the industry.
Bonus: Participate in collaborative panel discussions so your voice can be heard.
Best for: Kick-ass women leaders in construction, supportive male construction industry professionals
14. National Facilities Management and Technology Conference and Expo
Date and Location: October 25-26, 2023 in Orlando, Florida
Format: In-person
This conference is designed for the technicians, engineers, managers, and leaders who are curious about the latest trends and technologies in facilities management. NFMT offers a wide range of educational seminars, roundtable discussions, and workshops covering energy management, using technology, sustainability, safety, and emergency preparedness. There are also numerous opportunities for networking and connecting with suppliers.
Bonus: Registration fees are minimal ($50-$200 USD) so your budget can go toward new and innovative products instead of association fees.
Best for: Facility managers and technicians, asset owners and operators, engineers
Date and Location: October 25-27, 2023 in Houston, Texas
Format: In-person
The Ariat Dirt World Summit is the premier event for anyone in the construction industry. With hundreds of professionals attending, this multi-track experience features top experts and thought leaders, brought together to help tackle the workforce problem like never before. Gain invaluable insights into the industry’s toughest workforce challenges, from upgrading organizational leadership to retaining top talent. Optional pre-event activities include tailored workshops, an Echelon Front FTX, and the 1st Annual Ariat Dirt World Open. Don’t miss this unparalleled opportunity for learning and networking that promises to leave you both inspired and prepared for the future.
Bonus: Attend workshops if you come a day early, ranging from an FTX with Jocko and the Echelon Front team to Simulation in the Dirt World.
Best for: Business leaders in the Dirt World including Owners, Presidents, CEOs, hiring, people, and safety leaders.
Date and Location: October 25-27, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada
Format: In-person
Jointly sponsored by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA), this event is geared toward financial professionals in the construction industry. Event topics include contract compliance, construction taxes, financial fraud, and other subjects unique to finance in construction. There are ample opportunities for attendees to earn continuing professional education credits by attending conference sessions.
Bonus: Earn up to 20 CPE credits by attending any of the 38 informative sessions.
Best for: AEC industry financial professionals, financial officers, construction business owners
Date and Location: November 1-3, 2023 in National Harbor, Maryland
Format: In-person
With design-build projects expected to account for 47% of construction spending by 2025, there is no better time than the present to learn more about design-build project delivery. Hear from design-build industry leaders and make important industry connections. Choose from one of five different tracks to curate your conference schedule, from the design-build starter kit to the masterclass on team dynamics.
Bonus: New this year, attend virtual design and construction programming by the Design-Build VDC Leadership Exchange.
Best for: Design-build contractors, project owners
Date and Location: November 6-8, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada
Format: In-person
When Trimble says their conference is action-packed, they’re not kidding. The three-day event balances 400+ expert-led sessions and hands-on workshops, curated for building and civil construction professionals. In fact, 95% of previous attendees say they'd recommend Dimensions to a colleague. Experience networking like never before with a behind-the-scenes visit to Allegiant Stadium on Customer Appreciation Night. See the potential of autonomous and digital construction technologies as a road is built live at the event. And so much more.
Bonus: Every year, Dimensions hosts an offsite component where attendees can experience the latest Trimble equipment for themselves.
Best for: Trimble customers, AEC industry professionals, BIM managers, technology officers, construction technology enthusiasts, project owners
Date and Location: November 13-15, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada
Format: In-person
Attendees of the Autodesk University conference can expect to gain valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries. It is also an ideal time for Autodesk customers to learn how to use their software more effectively. The conference features a wide range of educational sessions, hands-on labs, keynote presentations, and networking opportunities.
Bonus: Leadership workshops are tailored exclusively to attendees who hold a leadership role and cover topics critical to business decision makers.
Best for: Autodesk users, BIM and VDC managers and technicians, engineers, architects
Date and Location: November 15-16, 2023 in London, UK
Format: In-person
Coined the UK’s leading construction show, this event features over 500 speakers across eight different stages speaking on topics such as the future of construction, BIM and digital technologies, and sustainability. With networking events, diverse exhibits, and an Architect’s Hub, this conference has something for everybody. It even has breakout sessions for Women in Construction and Diversity & Inclusion in Construction.
Bonus: To keep you always entertained, the event has two days of performances, DJs, live music, and even celebrity guests.
Best for: AEC industry professionals, construction designers and builders, project owners, construction technology enthusiasts
Date and Location:
- November 26-29, 2024 in Shanghai, China
- December 11-14, 2024 in New Delhi, India
- April 7-13, 2025 in Munich, Germany
Format: In-person
Bauma is one of the world's largest international trade fairs for construction machinery, building materials, mining machines, construction vehicles, and construction equipment. The main event is held every three years in Munich, with other localized events held at various times throughout the year.
Bonus: Visit Bauma's website for hundreds of resources around topics covered in previous years: sustainability, the construction methods and materials of tomorrow, additive manufacturing, autonomous machinery and robots, and much more.
Best for: Builders, architects, engineers, project managers, equipment manufacturers and suppliers, mining professionals, industry associations and organizations
Date and Location: November 28-29, 2023 in Munich, Germany
Format: In-person
This event, focused on Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital technologies for the construction, architecture, and engineering industries, is held annually in multiple locations around the world. BIM World attendees can expect to see a wide range of exhibits, product demonstrations, and presentations from industry experts. They can also attend seminars and workshops that cover topics such as BIM implementation, data management and interoperability, and using BIM for sustainable construction.
Bonus: Watch BIM Studio 365, BIM World's video channel, for insights into the latest developments of the international BIM ecosystem.
Best for: Architects, engineers, and contractors who work in BIM and VDC
Date and Location: December 4-7, 2023 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Format: In-person
This global building and construction show unites industry changemakers from over 150 countries and is self-proclaimed as the most influential event for the construction industry. The event is located right at the center of the action—over $4 trillion worth of construction projects are accounted for right now in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. The show has it all: Groundbreaking product launches, in-depth debates, and endless networking.
Bonus: The Big 5 event is co-located with other conferences to maximize your experience, including the Big 5 Heavy, Middle East Concrete, and more.
Best for: Construction industry professionals, construction designers and builders