Join us for this year’s CIC Forum at the University of Alberta’s beautiful North Campus on June 11th and 12th, 2025! The forum venue is the 8th floor of the DICE building (map).

The Forum provides a platform to share the latest advancements in construction innovation and foster collaborations among innovators, researchers, and construction professionals!

Bringing together construction experts, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and funding agencies, the Forum serves as the perfect venue to connect with like-minded changemakers and drive transformation in the construction industry!

The keynote session features compelling presentations that examine the forces shaping the future of Alberta’s construction industry. Brad Ferguson will speak on Technology Clusters and the Creation of Economic Wealth, offering insights into emerging innovation ecosystems and why Edmonton is positioned for a decade of exceptional growth. Bruce Alton will discuss the new AIxCE Strategy, a powerful collaboration between AI and construction leaders to solve real-world challenges. Robert Murray will address the impact of tariffs on the construction sector, unpacking the broader economic and policy implications. Warren Singh will speak about the modern construction workforce and the modernized workforce initiative, highlighting efforts to build a resilient, adaptable workforce ready to meet the challenges ahead.

This session begins with two insightful presentations by Jeff Griffiths and Joseph Marchand, each offering unique perspectives on labor trends and workforce development in construction. Their talks will set the stage for a dynamic panel discussion featuring Vanessa Brewer, Adam Collins, and Curtis Haugan. Together, the panel will explore the most pressing labor challenges facing the industry today, offering practical insights and diverse viewpoints from across the construction ecosystem.

This session features presentations that highlight how bold ideas are being transformed into real-world impact across the construction industry. These talks offer valuable insights into what it takes to drive meaningful change on the ground, and how innovation is reshaping the way we build, making projects smarter, safer, and more efficient. Glenn Matich and Megan Brooks will explore the critical role of data and demonstrate how leveraging BIM for facility management can drive bottom-line results. Stephani Carter will discuss how Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) creates space for innovation, sharing real-world examples through an interactive presentation. Olivia Brown and Jordan Wolfe will present on “Smart Collaboration,” highlighting how emerging technologies can be integrated to enhance construction quality. Peter Flynn will share insights from both practice and research on effective collaboration between design/build firms, EPCs, and Operating Companies. Matt Stokowski will present on innovation and sustainability initiatives at the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL).

This session features presentations from leading researchers whose work is shaping the future of construction and the built environment. Rafiq Ahmad will explore how advancements in robotics are redefining what’s possible on the job site. Farook Hamzeh will share emerging approaches to digitalization that enhance efficiency and support better decision-making. Mustafa Gul will present on translating infrastructure research into real-world solutions through effective collaboration.

The keynote session brings together experienced leaders to explore how innovation, collaboration, and strategic thinking are shaping project delivery in the AEC sector. Councillor Tim Cartmell will discuss how new approaches to collaboration and innovation will drive future public sector project delivery. Bob Walker will share lessons learned from three iconic projects, each with uncertain beginnings but ultimately transformative outcomes. Gerry Devine will talk on the AEC project value chain, examining how early-stage decisions and innovations can unlock value across the entire lifecycle of a project.

This interactive roundtable brings together industry leaders to explore why promising innovations often struggle to gain traction on job sites, and what can be done about it. Panelists will share real-world experiences of navigating the challenges of implementation, from scaling pilot projects to overcoming organizational and cultural barriers. The session will invite audience participation to surface common roadblocks and practical solutions, aiming to close the gap between innovative ideas and lasting industry impact.

This session spotlights innovators and tech leaders who are shaping the next generation of construction. Hear from founders and innovation experts as they share about their experiences tackling real-world industry problems.

Small and mid-sized construction firms are critical to the industry, but often face unique hurdles when it comes to adopting new technologies and practices. This session explores how SMEs can overcome common barriers to innovation, from limited resources and risk tolerance to access to talent and funding.