August, 13-14 2024

In-Person Event
Free for members

Hyatt Regency Downtown
370 King St W
Toronto, ON M5V 1J6

Pricing

Event Pricing (All Prices in CAD)
Plus applicable fees

Site Tours — $125
Main Event — $730
Exhibitor Pass — $1,200

All in pass (Main Session, Opening Reception and Executive Dinner) $899. **Best deal**

20% Off
All active members get a discount. Check your email for the code, or contact us if you haven't received one.

About the Event

A propos de l'événement

The Future of Construction: Automation, Offsite & Field Technology II will continue the conversation on the pressing challenge of labor shortages within the construction sector, with a primary focus on amalgamating design, manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly processes alongside field mechanization. Meet experts, practitioners, researchers, and policymakers to discuss pivotal innovations, hurdles obstructing progress, and avenues for industry stakeholders to contribute to the sector's advancement.

Learn about the latest advancements in field mechanization technologies, encompassing autonomous machinery, robotics, and more. Key topics for discussion will include:

  • Strategies for attracting, training, and retaining skilled workers both locally and globally within the Building Industry.
  • Exploration of governmental and industry partnerships aimed at reducing construction costs and fostering innovation.
  • In-depth case studies showcasing the practical application of Offsite Prefabrication, modularization, and site automation.
  • Implementable strategies for digitizing business operations across Planning, Estimating, Scheduling, and Construction phases.
  • An exclusive Contech-focused expo featuring vendors from across the globe, highlighting cutting-edge solutions and technologies.

This event promises to be a pivotal platform for fostering collaboration, sharing insights, and charting the course for the future of the construction industry.

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Commanditaires de l'événement

Tours & Opening Reception

DAY One

August 13, 2024

Site Walk 1
9:30–11:00 AM
CIBC Square - 141 Bay Street - EllisDon
CIBC Square - 141 Bay Street - EllisDon

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The 141 Bay Street project is Phase II of the new CIBC Square development and involves the construction of a 50-storey premier office tower. The new building will be connected to 81 Bay Street (Phase I of CIBC Square) by a one-acre elevated public park that bridges across the rail corridor. Planned public realm improvements in the 141 Bay Street development include two pedestrian bridges extending over Bay Street into Union Station and over Yonge Street directly into Backstage Condominiums. A fully renovated laneway connecting Yonge Street and Bay Street will also be built. The tower will have a twinned design to its 81 Bay Street counterpart that will feature a variation of the first tower’s footprint, rotated by nearly 90 degrees. The office building at 141 Bay Street will contribute to CIBC Square’s total three million square feet of commercial space in Toronto’s Financial District.

KEY FEATURES

  • A one-acre-plus park for community member use
  • A first-class fitness facility
  • Distributed antenna system for reliable cellular coverage
  • Dedicated conference centre
  • Collaborative work and meeting areas
  • 500 plus bicycle parking spaces for community members and guests
  • 300 underground parking spaces, one per 5,500 sq. ft. of office space
  • Restaurants and a curated food hall connected to the park
  • Showers and change-room facilities (14 per gender)
  • Free Wi-Fi in all building amenity areas, including the park

SUSTAINABILITY

141 Bay Street at CIBC Square is targeting LEED Platinum, WIRED Platinum, and WELL Building Standard Certifications. The project will set the highest standards for sustainability, including:

  • 40% reduction of energy costs compared to a typical, similar new building as outlined by the Model National Energy Code for Buildings, a Canadian energy standard
  • Highly efficient air filtration systems installed on all mechanical equipment
  • Enhanced control of humidification and dehumidification to maintain comfortable indoor humidity
  • 500 plus bicycle storage racks in close proximity to transit and shower facilities for community members
  • A submetering system allowing community members to receive feedback on their own energy consumption
  • Low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) building materials to support indoor air quality
  • Demand-controlled ventilation systems
  • High-efficiency water fixtures that reduce consumption by more than 40% compared to typical fixtures
  • Mechanical systems designed to exceed the minimum volume of outside air as established by ASHRAE Standards
  • Floor plates designed with high-quality access to natural daylight and views
  • Increased duct protection during construction
  • Thermal comfort in alignment with the latest version of ASHRAE Standards
  • Maximal use of green roof areas
  • Promotes stair use via increased lighting and artwork

AWARDS

  • Top 100 Biggest Infrastructure Projects, ReNew Canada, 2020
Marco Molinari P.Eng.
Senior Site Superintendent - EllisDon
(Moderator)
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Site Walk 2
11:30 AM–1:00 PM
St. Felix Centre House - Buttcon Limited
St. Felix Centre House - Buttcon Limited

The St. Felix project is a 4-storey women’s shelter situated in the heart of downtown Toronto. A notable attribute of this project is that it is constructed from steel framed volumetric modules. During the tour participants will have a chance to learn more about the speed, complexity, challenges, and construction of module projects within a downtown core that has very little staging area.

Ryan Moxam
Senior Project Manager - Buttcon Limited
(Moderator)
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Networking
5:00–7:00 PM
Opening Reception
Opening Reception

Join us at The Hyatt Regency Hotel for a great time of networking.

Sponsored by Bentley Systems
(Moderator)
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***

Meet the Exhibitors

Commanditaires de l'événement

Sessions, Technology Exhibition & Dinner

DAY Two

August 14, 2024

Technology Exhibition
7:30–5:00 PM
Technology Exhibition
Technology Exhibition
(Moderator)
***
Registration
7:30–8:30 AM
Registration
Registration
(Moderator)
***
Opening Address
8:30–8:45 AM. Regency Ballroom
Opening Address
Opening Address
Nzinga White
Executive Director - Building Transformations
(Moderator)
Brandon Searle
Director, Innovation and Operations - UNB Off-site Construction Research Centre
Hammad Chaudhry
VP, Innovation & Construction Technology - EllisDon
***
Executive Keynote
8:45–9:30 AM. Regency Ballroom
Ontario's Digital Twin: Tech Innovations - Impact on Infrastructure Development & Ownership
Ontario's Digital Twin: Tech Innovations - Impact on Infrastructure Development & Ownership
Tom Aicklen
Vice President, Commercial Advisory - Infrastructure Ontario
(Moderator)
***
Executive Presentation
9:30–10:15 AM. Regency Ballroom
Modern Methods of Construction: A Global Perspective - Lessons Learned From UK & Beyond and Implications for Canada
Modern Methods of Construction: A Global Perspective - Lessons Learned From UK & Beyond and Implications for Canada

The desire to modernise construction industries seems to be an increasingly urgent ambition across most developed economies in the world. With global megatrends of economic volatility, an ageing workforce, poor productivity and decarbonisation bearing down on the construction sector, governments are looking at the tools they have to influence change and industry is looking for the change agents that will push it towards a new way of working.

Mark's presentation will reflect on the journey that the UK has gone on since 2016 in attempting to modernise its construction industry, with both successes and lessons learned highlighted. He will also point to other global reference points for Canada to consider in the context of its own market.

Mark Farmer
Founder & CEO - Cast Consultancy
(Moderator)
***
Break
10:15–10:40 AM
Break/Technology Exhibition
Break/Technology Exhibition
(Moderator)
***
Industry Presentation
10:45–11:30 AM. Regency Ballroom
Streamlining Construction: Advances in Offsite Techniques
Streamlining Construction: Advances in Offsite Techniques

Prefab Potential delves into the latest advancements in offsite construction techniques, showcasing innovative practices that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve project timelines. Industry expert, Marty Corrado will share real-world case studies, highlighting the benefits and challenges of integrating prefabrication into various types of projects.

Marty Corrado
Director of Industrialized Construction - Boldt Construction Company
(Moderator)
***
Executive Presentation
11:30–12:00 PM. Regency Ballroom
Advancing Infrastructure with Artificial Intelligence
Advancing Infrastructure with Artificial Intelligence

In a sector facing huge talent shortages and resource constraints, the value of artificial intelligence is coming into focus: Support the work infrastructure professionals through automated efficiencies for project delivery and asset performance. With AI capabilities in their tool kit, infrastructure professionals will have the capacity and latitude to take on the bigger challenges that drive improvements for a better quality of life.

During this presentation, Francois Valois, VP of Civil Engineering for Bentley Systems, will discuss the company’s vision for artificial intelligence in infrastructure. He will also discuss and showcase AI capabilities that Bentley is developing from multiple applications across infrastructure sectors.

Francois Valois
Vice President, Civil Infrastructure - Bentley Systems
(Moderator)
***
Break
12:00–1:00 PM
Lunch Break
Lunch Break
(Moderator)
***
1:00–1:45 PM
Stream 1
Stream 1
(Moderator)
***
Industry Presentation
1A - Regency Ballroom
Exploring Emerging Tech's Impact on Design: Debunking Myths, Embracing Realities
Exploring Emerging Tech's Impact on Design: Debunking Myths, Embracing Realities

In architecture and engineering design, buzzwords like AI, Digital Twins, and innovation often overshadow practical realities. This presentation cuts through the hype, providing a pragmatic perspective on these latest advancements shaping the future of design. Based on extensive research and analysis of industry trends, we will explore the technologies and factors poised to have the most significant impact on design processes in the coming years.

Krigh Bachmann
Digital Innovation Leader
(Moderator)
***
Panel Discussion
1B. - Studio B
Innovative Strategies for Efficient Construction Permitting
Innovative Strategies for Efficient Construction Permitting

This session will delve into the intricacies of the construction permitting process, exploring the latest advancements and best practices to streamline approvals. Attendees will gain insights from industry experts on navigating regulatory requirements, reducing delays, and enhancing compliance through innovative technologies and strategies. This session is essential for professionals seeking to optimize their project's timeline and efficiency in obtaining necessary permits.

Helen Goodland
Principal, Head of Research and Innovation - Scius Advisory, Inc.
(Moderator)
Arash Shahi
Chief Executive Officer - LandLogic
Abdulrahman Abu-Salhieh
Deputy Construction Manager - Mobilinx - Hurontario LRT
Richard Lyall
President - Rescon
Ashish Giri
Operations Lead - Permitflow
***
Panel Discussion
1C - Studio C
Innovation in Our Ecosystem: Thoughts from Across the Industry
Innovation in Our Ecosystem: Thoughts from Across the Industry

A lively conversation with executives from GCs, founders, advisors, investors and insurers on how the AEC is evolving & what might be next.

Aaron Toppston
Managing Partner - GS Futures
(Moderator)
Luigi La Corte
CEO - Provision
Hammad Chaudhry
VP, Innovation & Construction Technology - EllisDon
Chris Greene
VP Innovation & Insights - American Global
Erin Khan
Founder, Sr. Consultant - Erin Khan Consulting
***
Industry Presentation
1D - Thomson Room
Unlocking Opportunities: Using Technology to Build Better Cities
Unlocking Opportunities: Using Technology to Build Better Cities

Since CentreCourt's start in 2010, they have become the top performing residential developer in the GTA. In this midst of a housing crisis, and operating in a fast-paced market, CentreCourt uses tools and technologies that give them a competitive edge.

CentreCourt has been using Ratio.City, an online platform that helps developers find and analyze land for acquisition, since 2021. Bader Elkhatib, Partner and SVP Acquisitions at CentreCourt, and Monika Jaroszonek, Managing Director Planning & Housing at Esri Canada (and co-Founder of Ratio.City), will share CentreCourt's experience with Ratio.City and how it's helped them unlock opportunities in today's market.

Monika Jaroszonek
Managing Director, Planning and Housing - ESRI Canada
(Moderator)
Bader Elkhatib
Partner & Senior Vice President, Acquisitions - Centrecourt
***
1:50–2:35 PM
Stream 2
Stream 2
(Moderator)
***
Panel Discussion
2A - Regency Ballroom
Future of AI: Exploring Possibilities and Practical Use Cases
Future of AI: Exploring Possibilities and Practical Use Cases

Dive into the future of artificial intelligence in the construction industry in this forward-looking session.  Explore how AI is reshaping construction planning, design, and project management through innovative applications and real-world examples. Attendees will learn about cutting-edge AI tools, current deployments, and the challenges of implementation. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the opportunities AI offers for enhancing efficiency, safety, and productivity in construction, while also addressing the practical steps needed to leverage AI's full potential.

Alice Leung
Vice President, Platform and Product Strategy - Brick & Mortar Ventures
(Moderator)
Scott Kaplanis
Managing Partner - GroundBreak Ventures
Adam Wisniewski
Cofounder & CTO - Ai Clearing
Adolfo Gutierrez
Digital Delivery Manager - Ontario Transit Group
***
Industry Presentation
2B - Studio B
Structural Steel Fabrication & Assembly: Technology-Driven Business and Closing the Productivity Gap
Structural Steel Fabrication & Assembly: Technology-Driven Business and Closing the Productivity Gap

This presentation explores the evolving landscape of structural steel fabrication and assembly, focusing on how advanced technologies are transforming the industry. It addresses the persistent productivity gap that has historically challenged the construction sector and highlights how innovations such as automation, digital fabrication, and integrated project delivery are driving efficiency, reducing waste, and enhancing precision. By examining real-world examples and case studies, the presentation demonstrates how businesses can leverage these technologies to optimize operations, improve project timelines, and remain competitive in a rapidly advancing market.

Sam Barrett
Vice President, Preconstruction & Sales - Walters Inc.
(Moderator)
***
Industry Presentation
2C - Studio C
International openBIM Implementations: Why openBIM is Integral to the Conversation in Canada
International openBIM Implementations: Why openBIM is Integral to the Conversation in Canada

buildingSMART Canada and the National Research Council of Canada explored successful international case studies and implementation of openBIM but the bSI community.  This talk shares what has motivated the implementation of openBIM and why is it integral to the advancements within the built asset industry.  This research has provided insights into how these global practices can inform and influence the Canadian roadmap for digital transformation in the built environment, highlighting benefits which include enhanced collaboration, interoperability, and efficiency across diverse project stakeholders.  To do so an important step is to clearly articulate the strategic importance of integrating openBIM within the Canadian context to foster innovation, streamline project delivery, meet evolving industry demands, and move towards a more connected and efficient future.

Claudia Cozzitorto
Principal - BIM DnA Group
(Moderator)
***
Panel Discussion
2D - Thomson Room
Construction Technology Startups: Founders Perspectives
Construction Technology Startups: Founders Perspectives

Hear from a wide range of construction technology startup founders on the challenges facing our industry, the journey of a founder and thoughts on how to get the most out of your collaboration with startups.

Daniel Spillane
Head of Sales - Skillit
(Moderator)
Francesco Iorio
CEO - Augmenta
Cameron Page
CEO & Founder - Clearstory
Steve Dell'Orto
Founder & CEO - ConCntric
Gabe Guetta
CEO - SALUS
***
Break
2:35–3:00 PM
Break/Technology Exhibition
Break/Technology Exhibition
(Moderator)
***
3:00–3:45 PM
Stream 3
Stream 3
(Moderator)
***
Panel Discussion
3A - Studio B
Robotics Fast Pitch: Insights from Industry Leaders
Robotics Fast Pitch: Insights from Industry Leaders

Learn from industry leaders and founders from specialized robotic startups. Explore how automated solutions are revolutionizing drywall, reality and data capture, material transportation and manipulation for assembly work on construction sites. Our expert panelists will dive into current industry challenges, share adoption best practices, and offer exciting previews of future innovations. Discover how robotic technologies are boosting efficiency, improving safety, and addressing labor shortages on construction sites. Whether you're a seasoned contractor or new to the field, this panel will provide valuable insights to help your business stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of construction technology.

Justin Saeheng
Founder - Almansor Group
(Moderator)
Scott Fairley
Founder & CEO - Optimotive
Kevin Albert
CEO - Canvas
Gary Chen
CEO - Raise Robotics
***
Industry Presentation
3B - Regency Ballroom
Will Robots Replace Us On Site?​ Visual LLMs in Construction Robotics​
Will Robots Replace Us On Site?​ Visual LLMs in Construction Robotics​
Luigi La Corte
CEO - Provision
(Moderator)
Aaron Tan
Founder, PhD Candidate - Syncere AI, University of Toronto
Sina Karimi
Lead R&D Axlab Innovations - Pomerleau
***
Presentation
3C - Studio C
OpenBIM: A Technical Overview
OpenBIM: A Technical Overview

We will focus on the principles of openBIM, an open standards-based approach to Building Information Modeling (BIM). The session aims to provide attendees with a deep understanding of how openBIM facilitates seamless collaboration and interoperability. It covers the key technical aspects, including data exchange protocols, standardized formats, such as Industry Foundation Classes (IFC), BIM Collaboration Format (BCF), and Information Delivery Specifications (IDS). Participants will obtain foundational information regarding openBIM standards, suitable for anyone interested to learn about openBIM – previous knowledge is not required.

Claudia Cozzitorto
Principal - BIM DnA Group
(Moderator)
***
Industry Presentation
3D - Thomson Room
Maximizing Efficiency in Construction: The Impact of Advanced Technologies on Prefabrication and Modular Construction
Maximizing Efficiency in Construction: The Impact of Advanced Technologies on Prefabrication and Modular Construction

The rise of prefabrication and modular construction, combined with a decreasing pool of skilled labor, underscores the importance of advanced technologies to keep up with global demand. By exploring real project case studies, discover how 3D scanning, augmented reality, and robotic total stations enhance execution on both the shop floor and job site, ensuring reality matches the design. Learn how complex BIM data, seamlessly flowing between office and field, when integrated with these technologies, provides clearer understanding for all stakeholders, leading to enhanced productivity, better scheduling, and significant cost savings.

Bryan Williams
Sr. Segment Manager, Building Construction, Industrial, Manufacturing and Fabrication segments - Trimble
(Moderator)
***
3:50–4:35 PM
Stream 4
Stream 4
(Moderator)
***
Panel Discussion
4A - Regency Ballroom
IoT, Data, and AI: Practical Deployments and Use Cases Being Solved
IoT, Data, and AI: Practical Deployments and Use Cases Being Solved

Discover the practical applications and transformative impact of IoT, data, and AI in the construction industry in this valuable session. IoT, Data, and AI: Practical Deployments and Use Cases Being Solved will feature industry leaders and innovators sharing real-world examples of how these technologies are being deployed to solve critical challenges. Learn how IoT devices are enhancing site safety, how data analytics are driving decision-making, and how AI is optimizing construction workflows. Attendees will gain actionable insights into the benefits, obstacles, and future potential of integrating IoT, data, and AI into their projects, helping to drive efficiency, accuracy, and innovation.

Erin Khan
Founder, Sr. Consultant - Erin Khan Consulting
(Moderator)
Daniel Smolilo
Technical Solutions Executive - Autodesk
Michael Pink
CEO - SmartPM Technologies
Rohit Sinha
CTO - SmartPM Technologies
***
Industry Presentation
4B - Studio B
Modular Construction Panel - State of Mod
Modular Construction Panel - State of Mod

This panel will delve into the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in modular building techniques. Industry leaders will share insights on how modular construction is revolutionizing project delivery, improving efficiency, and reducing costs.

Brandon Searle
Director, Innovation and Operations - UNB Off-site Construction Research Centre
(Moderator)
Enda McDonagh
Principal - Montgomery Sisam Architects Inc.
Patrick Crabbe
Director, Mass Timber - Bird Construction
Laurie Robert
Vice President, Sales and Business Development - Fero International
August Nazareth
Global Director, Built Environment, Americas - BSI Group
***
Panel Discussion
4C - Studio C
BIM Think Tank Panel - buildingSMART
BIM Think Tank Panel - buildingSMART

This expert led panel discussion will explore how openBIM supports the seamless transition of data from the design phase through construction and operation, ensuring data integrity and accessibility throughout the project lifecycle. Current state of the industry, success stories, and what is being done to address the roadblocks to adoption. Giving insight into what organizations can do to prepare for both the technical and cultural shifts required to make this transition successful.

Brent Mauti
CTO - Turner Fleischer Architects Inc.
(Moderator)
Patrick Lalonde
Senior Director, Digital Project Delivery - EllisDon
Mark Cichy
Principal Director of Design and Technology - HOK
Nicolas Arellano Risopatron
Research Team Lead | Canada's Digital Twin Project - CIMS
***
Industry Presentation
4D - Thomson Room
Building as an Industrial Process and Not as a Never-Ending Problem-Solving Process
Building as an Industrial Process and Not as a Never-Ending Problem-Solving Process

In a lot of industries prefabrication is the standard not the exception Preplanning is the standard and last-minute changes are the exception. when we look at the building industry, we see that these principles are not existing. This applies for the whole world with very less exceptions. In my presentation I will propose a road map to BIM, AI and best use of automation in the building process. All these measures also reduce the use of labor in production.

The transformation from traditional processes to new ways of working and industrial thinking begins on the executive floor.

It is important that the building process is seen as an integrated approach to produce a high-quality product which is called building. And not as service to solve the problem to build a building for the future owner.

(Moderator)
Christian Prilhofer
CEO - Prilhofer Consulting GmbH & CoKG
***
Closing Remarks
4:45–5:00 PM - Regency Ballroom
A Vision for The Future of Construction
A Vision for The Future of Construction
Nzinga White
Executive Director - Building Transformations
(Moderator)
Hammad Chaudhry
VP, Innovation & Construction Technology - EllisDon
***
Networking Dinner
6:30–9:00 PM
Meets & Eats Dinner
Meets & Eats Dinner
Sponsored by Boris & Associates Inc.
(Moderator)
***

Day Three

August 24, 2023

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