November 2024 Vol. 79 No. 11
Features
Celebrating 30 years: Explore the next era of UIC
Imagine a conference where innovative solutions, cutting-edge technology, and industry pioneers come together under one roof to shape the future of underground infrastructure. That’s exactly what you’ll find at the 30th Underground Infrastructure Conference (UIC), Tuesday, March 4, to Thursday, March 6, 2025, at Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center. Join like-minded professionals who are committed to advancing infrastructure construction, rehabilitation, and asset management.
UIC offers an unmatched educational experience tailored for industry professionals navigating the complexities of modern underground infrastructure. This year, UIC brings a meticulously crafted program featuring sessions on the latest technologies, innovative techniques, and forward-thinking solutions critical to advancing infrastructure resilience and sustainability. Further, the Houston region is a booming area for all kinds of utility work with total annual spending in the billions.
With tracks focusing on Sewer, Water, Microtunneling/Tunnels, Asset Management, Utilities/Energy, Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD), Emerging Technologies and the new Energy Pipelines Construction and Corrosion tracks, you will gain hands-on insights into specialized areas of infrastructure while benefiting from real-world case studies and interactive discussions. Not only will you learn the latest from top minds in the industry, but you’ll also earn Professional Development Hours (PDHs) and Continuing Education Units (CEUs), accredited by the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA).
Speaking of the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), the 23rd Annual Trenchless Technology Certification Schools presented by the Center for Underground Infrastructure Research & Education (CUIRE) at UTA, is on Monday, March 3, also at the George R. Brown Convention Center. This year's program includes Pipe School (School A), CIPP School (School B), HDD School (Schools C), Microtunneling and Pilot Tube School (School D). Each School (½ Day) qualifies for 0.4 CEU and 4 PDHs through UTA. Learn more here.
The program is structured to provide a deep dive into every phase of infrastructure management, from initial design to maintenance and rehabilitation. Sessions in each track are crafted by industry experts, presenting groundbreaking projects and technology applications across diverse underground infrastructure domains. Each session offers actionable insights that you can take back to your team. This holistic approach means that 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 full spectrum of critical infrastructure-related issues.
Here’s a Glimpse at What Awaits
The Sewer and Water tracks kick off the conference, zeroing in on pressing challenges like volatile organic compounds (VOC) management in cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) projects, an emerging concern among municipal leaders and contractors. Attendees can gain insights into the impact of resin liners and curing methods on VOC emissions, with research-backed sessions led by university experts and industry leaders alike. These sessions blend practical solutions with the latest research to offer methods for safer, more efficient water and sewer project management, particularly vital for densely populated urban areas.
These tracks also address common issues in urban infrastructure, such as pipe bursting and horizontal directional drilling (HDD) in crowded neighborhoods. For instance, the Woodson Village Water & Wastewater Rehabilitation session delves into the challenges and successes of these techniques in tight residential spaces. Attendees learn how to mitigate risks in future projects by understanding the limitations and advantages of each method, helping cities and contractors create sustainable, efficient urban utility networks.
As urban areas grow, infrastructure must adapt, making the Microtunneling/Tunnels track a must-attend for professionals dealing with complex underground projects. This track delves into the intricacies of pipe jacking and direct pipe techniques for sensitive shore approaches, as demonstrated in the session on trenchless shore approaches. The track also covers advanced tunneling methods in challenging environments, such as deep tunnels for water transmission lines in Dallas. Here, engineers share how to address floodway challenges, difficult soils, and accessibility issues, equipping attendees with practical approaches to handling complex project constraints.
The Utilities/Energy track explores the future of pipeline and utility management under increasing environmental and regulatory scrutiny. Sessions such as “Mythbusting: Investment vs. Benefits of Undergrounding Electric Facilities” counter misconceptions surrounding the cost-effectiveness of undergrounding utilities, presenting case studies of successful projects. The track also covers emerging methods in pipeline integrity management, composite wrapping, and high-fidelity fiber optic monitoring, which are rapidly transforming pipeline maintenance strategies across the U.S. and beyond.
New for 2025 are the Energy Pipelines: Construction and Corrosion tracks. Developed by Pipeline & Gas Journal and Underground Infrastructure, these tracks will offer exclusive insights into the challenges and innovations in the field of pipeline infrastructure. With the results of the recent elections, more emphasis and activity are projected for pipeline construction. Presenting will be pipeline company officials along with contractors who will be sharing their perspectives on the prospects for additional pipeline construction work in the near future.
Also in the Energy Pipelines tracks, join experts for discussions on the latest advancements, regulatory changes, and the impact of environmental concerns on construction practices. Key topics will include evolving federal and state regulations, the effects of green energy initiatives and innovative solutions for corrosion resistance and pipeline integrity. A few of the noteworthy presenters you will hear from include Kenneth Medlock, Rice University’s Baker Institute; a contractors’ panel led by Rob Riess, vice president, Pipeline Division, Henkels & McCoy; and Jeff Sutherland, engineer, Baker Hughes. Additional presenters from INGAA, Zerust Oil & Gas and more to be named soon. Whether you're interested in hydrogen pipeline developments or sustainable construction methods, this program is designed to empower industry professionals.
In addition to the powerful learning tracks, you can build important connections with equipment and technology providers in the exhibit hall. Think of it as your gateway to new partnerships and business growth. It’s also the perfect place to speak one-on-one with solutions providers so that you can better understand the technologies that were presented during the education program. Other key exhibit hall elements are the Tuesday and Wednesday lunches (free while supplies last) and the welcome reception/mixer. Make even more connections during the Underground Infrastructure Awards (UIA). The Awards honor and recognize accomplishments, projects, and technological advances that made a significant contribution to the infrastructure industry. The ceremony takes place on Tuesday, March 4.
We’re happy to announce that the ever-popular HDD Reunion and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, March 5. Tickets for both the UIA and HDD Reunion can be added to your conference registration. Sponsorships are available. For information, please visit UI-Conference.com.
UIC 2025 promises a comprehensive educational experience, combining hands-on learning with forward-looking insights tailored to underground infrastructure professionals. Attendees gain practical tools and knowledge from the industry’s top minds, ready to address the pressing challenges of modern urban infrastructure. Each session is a unique opportunity to learn from real-world applications and network with peers who share a commitment to advancing sustainable, efficient underground infrastructure. From asset management to advanced drilling techniques, UIC 2025 is more than just a conference; it’s an essential step toward a future where infrastructure meets the demands of growing populations and environmental challenges head-on.
The entire program is online. Continue reading to learn more about the conference. Register today and take advantage of early registration rates!
We look forward to welcoming you to UIC in Houston.
Karen Francis
Convention Director
Invest In Your Future
Education and networking shouldn’t be complicated or expensive. UIC’s registration rates are more economical than other conferences, and it takes place before construction season is in full swing. Attendees benefit from quality education sessions and can receive credit granted by the University of Texas at Arlington. Employers benefit because the price is kept low, allowing more employees to receive training.
No cons, just simple, easy-to-understand, affordable rates at a time of year that’s practical. Budgets are restricted so why overpay for something when you don’t have to? Early registration rates in effect. Register today and save!
Full Conference
(March 4-March 6) $560
Full Conference
One Day $330
Exhibits Only $50
Ask us about group rates for three or more people! Karen@UndergroundInfrastructure.com
Exhibiting At UIC
Build strategic partnerships at UIC with an exhibit booth or sponsorship. Attendees are the underground utility professionals who make the purchasing decisions or recommendations for your equipment and technology.
UIC does not charge extra for booth staff registration (number of passes included is determined by the booth size). If you or your staff want to attend the main program, this too is included in the booth fee.
If your goal is to reconnect with current customers and suppliers or forge new business relationships, UIC is the place, and March is the perfect time of year.
What Makes UIC Valuable?
- Targeted/Quality attendees relevant to the underground infrastructure industry
- Business-oriented trade show
- The entire program is focused on the three pillars of infrastructure: construction, rehabilitation and asset management
- Timing – UIC is early in the year before the height of the construction season!
Why exhibit?
- Cost-Effective Participation: Exhibiting at UIC comes with lower participation costs, making it a more budget-friendly option if you don’t have a massive marketing budget.
- Accessible Decision Makers: UIC attracts key individuals who can influence purchasing decisions. Nearly 60 percent of UIC attendees approve or recommend purchases!
- Networking Opportunities: You can engage in more in-depth conversations and build genuine relationships with potential clients and industry influencers.
- Increased Visibility: Stand out more easily to attendees, allowing you to gain higher visibility.
Brand awareness begins with promoting your participation, at no additional cost to you, through our sister publication, Underground Infrastructure. Promotional activities extend to the conference website, email campaigns and targeted e-newsletters.
At-show networking begins when you arrive, continues in the exhibit hall and concludes daily at one of the receptions or hosted parties. Booth space is available now. Visit UI-Conference.com/exhibit for more information.
Houston Is: Convenience, Culture, Connection
Houston has two major airports with over 180 direct destinations, making travel convenient from nearly anywhere. Frequent flights, competitive fares, and short transit times to downtown make it accessible. For foodies, Houston is known as one of the most diverse culinary cities in the U.S., boasting everything from award-winning restaurants to international cuisine and local Tex-Mex. You can easily experience the city’s flavors without venturing far from the GRB!
Houston offers plenty of ways to relax, with spaces like Discovery Green and Buffalo Bayou Park, you can enjoy kayaking, biking, and walking trails in the middle of the city. Learn more at UI-Conference.com.
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