December 2024 Vol. 79 No. 12
Features
Shape the future of underground infrastructure, attend UIC 2025
Picture a gathering where groundbreaking innovations, state-of-the-art technologies, and industry experts converge to redefine the future of underground infrastructure. That’s exactly what awaits you at the 30th Underground Infrastructure Conference (UIC), happening Tuesday, March 4, through Thursday, March 6, 2025, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston. This is your perfect opportunity to connect with professionals who are as passionate about infrastructure construction, rehabilitation and asset management as you are.
UIC isn’t your average conference. It’s a place where you can dive into the real-world challenges of underground infrastructure and explore practical solutions. This year’s program is packed with sessions highlighting the latest technologies, fresh approaches, and forward-thinking ideas to help make infrastructure more resilient and sustainable, while equipping you with the skills you need to succeed. And what better place to host this event than Houston, a bustling center for utility projects, with billions spent annually on development?
The conference features tracks that cover everything from Sewer, Water, and Microtunneling/Tunnels to Asset Management, Utilities/Energy, Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD), Emerging Technologies, and the brand-new Energy Pipelines Construction and Corrosion tracks. You’ll walk away with actionable insights from case studies and interactive discussions that bring these topics to life. Plus, you can earn Professional Development Hours (PDHs) and Continuing Education Units (CEUs), accredited by the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA).
Back by popular demand are two favorite training partners, the Center for Underground Infrastructure Research & Education (CUIRE) and NASSCO. Their special sessions kick off UIC “week” on Monday, March 3.
Choose from CUIRE’s trenchless technology training and certification schools featuring: School A – Rigid and Flexible Pipes, School B – Comparison of CIPP and SIPP Methods, School C – HDD School or School D – Microtunneling and Pilot Tube School; or the NASSCO ITCP-CIPP program. NASSCO’s ITCP training and certification program provides field construction professionals (i.e., consulting and municipal engineers and contractors) with comprehensive learning and tools to understand and inspect trenchless pipeline renewal technology. Learn more and register at nassco.org/education-and-training/itcp/
Registration for these programs must be completed on their websites: cuire.uta.edu or NASSCO.org.
The entire education program is crafted by industry experts. Whether you’re dealing with aging pipelines, municipal water systems, utility coordination, or sustainable asset management, you can be confident that UIC will cover the spectrum of critical infrastructure-related issues.
Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and get inspired as we collectively shape the future of underground infrastructure! Register today and take advantage of discounted rates.
Read on to learn more about what’s in store for you during UIC. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Karen Francis
Convention Director
Hours at-a-glance
Monday, March 3:
Exhibitor Move In 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
CUIRE Schools 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
NASSCO ITCP-CIPP 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, March 4:
Morning Education Sessions 8:00-10:25 a.m.
NASSCO ITCP-CIPP 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Midday Exhibit Hours 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
MVP Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. (ticketed event)
Afternoon Education Sessions 1:30-2:55 p.m.
Afternoon Exhibits + Mixer 3:00-5:00 p.m.
UI Awards 6:00-8:45 p.m. (ticketed event)
Wednesday, March 5:
Morning Education Sessions 8:00-10:25 a.m.
Midday Exhibit Hours 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Afternoon Education Sessions 1:30-3:00 p.m.
Afternoon Exhibits + Mixer 3:00-5:00 p.m.
HDD Reunion & Hall of Fame 5:15-6:45 p.m. (ticket event)
Thursday, March 6:
Morning Education Sessions 8:00-9:25 a.m.
Exhibits 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall Prize Giveaway 11:45 a.m. (must be present to win)
*Exhibit Hall is only open during the times listed above
Who should attend
Contractors
Sewer, water, gas utility, fiber, energy pipelines, damage prevention and safety
Municipalities
Public works officials, construction and rehabilitation personnel, senior city staff and elected officials
Consulting Engineers
Firms serving the underground utilities, energy, HDD and industrial markets
Pipelines/Energy
Managers, construction and maintenance personnel for transmission pipelines
Telecommunications
Owning companies, operators and construction personnel
Top-notch sessions increase your skills
Get ready to increase your skills at UIC 2025! This year’s program is packed with over 90 cutting-edge sessions led by top infrastructure experts, offering a unique chance to earn Professional Development Hours (PDHs) and Continuing Education Units (CEUs), while digging into the latest trends and technologies shaping underground infrastructure.
From real-world case studies to visionary panels and keynotes, there’s something for nearly everyone at every level of expertise. Discover:
- Innovative techniques in trenchless technology and pipeline rehabilitation
- The future of energy pipelines in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape
- Breakthroughs in AI-driven utility mapping and emerging tech for asset management
- Plus, sessions on confined space safety, HDD advancements and so much more!
Whether you’re looking to tackle today’s challenges or prepare for tomorrow’s opportunities, this program delivers the insights and credentials you need to stay ahead. View the program here and make plans now to connect with like-minded professionals!
Build connections with these exclusive networking events
In addition to casual meetups in the education sessions and Exhibit Hall, UIC helps you make meaningful connections during structured events, too. A premier crowd favorite is the MVP luncheon on Tuesday, March 4. Organized by the Underground Construction Technology Association (UCTA) and co-sponsored by Underground Infrastructure magazine, this year’s honoree is contractor Mark L. Boyer, CEO of Boyer Inc., a company that has become a cornerstone of Houston’s infrastructure development. Tickets for this event will be available by contacting uctahq@gmail.com or visit the website, UCTAonline.org.
A favorite among the HDD industry is the HDD Reunion and Hall of Fame induction ceremony, occurring on Wednesday, March 5. Five people will be named to the Class of 2025: Peter Hambling, Digital Control Inc.; John Mercer, Digital Control Inc.; Bryan Tucker, Online Directional; Grady Bell, Bell Trenchless; and Vernon Harris, Ranger Directional Drilling. Posthumous honors in this class go to: Bob Rankin, AdTech; Frank Forest, Sharewell HDD; Monty Scruggs, Isaacks Directional Drilling; and Gene Carpenter, Horizontal Rig & Equipment.
In addition to the Reunion, a special, interactive panel in the Exhibit Hall Theater will take place from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with the five honorees The actual reception for the Class of 2025 Hall of Fame inductees and the HDD Reunion will begin at 5:15 p.m. Be sure to add this one-of-a-kind event to your UIC registration!
An exciting new event for 2025 is the Confined Space Challenge, presented by NASSCO with equipment provided by SAK Construction. Bring your own PPE (hardhat, gloves, safety glasses, vest, booths), and a confined space permit. Get lowered into the confined space, pick up the widget and be extracted by the winch. You’re set up protocol, permit and PPE will be assessed. Details on this fun addition to UIC are under development and will be available soon. The Challenge takes place on Tuesday, March 4, 3:00-5:00 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall. While there’s no cost to participate, space for teams of 2-4 people is limited. The challenge must be added at the time of registration.
Explore session technologies up close in the exhibit hall
The Exhibit Hall is the heartbeat of UIC. It’s where you’ll expand on the knowledge gained during the education sessions by exploring the equipment, tools, and services you heard about, giving you a hands-on perspective and the chance to interact directly with solutions providers. The Exhibit Hall isn’t just a space to browse; it’s a dynamic environment where the industry converges! Whether you're exploring trenchless solutions, asset management tools, or the latest in HDD equipment, you’ll leave with insights and contacts to enhance your projects.
Packed with opportunities to network, learn, and explore, the Exhibit Hall promises to be an essential stop for all attendees. Fuel your conference experience with a complimentary attendee lunch in the Exhibit Hall (Tuesday and Wednesday, while supplies last). It’s the perfect time to connect with industry peers, engage with exhibitors, and recharge for the day ahead. And, don’t miss the Exhibit Hall receptions, offering a lively atmosphere to unwind and forge meaningful connections over refreshments.
Here's the list of companies that signed up early. Make plans now to see them!
Exhibitor corner
UIC attracts top-tier professionals responsible for billions of dollars in underground infrastructure projects. With engineers, contractors, municipal leaders, and utility professionals making up the majority of attendees, your equipment and technologies will be seen by the people who matter most.
Plus, leverage exclusive events like the HDD Reunion, Exhibit Hall receptions, and attendee lunches to forge meaningful connections with existing and potential clients. These structured and informal interactions can lead to long-term partnerships.
With comprehensive marketing benefits, exhibitors and sponsors gain exposure across multi-channel promotions, including:
- Listings in Underground Infrastructure magazine and the conference website
- Social media spotlights and customized graphics
- Presence in email campaigns and on-site event materials
UIC offers flexible packages to fit your goals. Booth rates start at $2,975 for a 10’x10’ space and sponsorships range from $800 carpet clings to $20,000 host sponsorships. There’s an option for businesses of all sizes.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of UIC 2025. Reserve your booth or sponsorship today to expand your reach, connect with decision-makers, and lead the underground infrastructure industry into the future. For more details, contact Karen@UndergroundInfrastructure.com, Josh@UndergroundInfrastructure.com or Melissa.Smith@GulfEnergyInfo.com.
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