For creative problem solvers, AU: The Design & Make Conference, is an unmissable annual event. This year’s conference will spotlight and connect trailblazing figures in digital construction, who want to learn, collaborate, and make a lasting impact on industry and society
AU 2024 takes place from 15-17 October in San Diego, California, with options to attend in-person or digitally. Attendees can choose from hundreds of sessions, hands-on learning labs, real-world case studies, industry meetups, and immersive events.
Across all of those, they can explore the 2024 conference theme of Making the Future from multiple perspectives – from unpacking critical challenges like AI, sustainability and trust, to unlocking actionable solutions.
Over 12,000 industry leaders and experts are set to attend the conference. Together, they can make the most of AU 2024 by gaining new skills, sharing best practices, and mastering the trends, technologies and workflows that will advance today’s makers into the future.
The programme for AU 2024 has been devised to help digital construction professionals evaluate key developments, explore emerging technologies and define steps forward for their business.
Hear from senior Autodesk leaders
A useful session to attend to discover the overarching trends and macroeconomic conditions shaping the future of architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) is a keynote by Nicolas Mangon, VP, AEC industry strategy at Autodesk.
During his AEC Vision and Strategy session on Wednesday 16 October (in-person and online), Nicolas will offer smart, scalable strategies for AEC excellence.
He’ll also detail how Autodesk equips businesses with the tools, processes and knowledge to shape our world, including how the Forma industry cloud will improve the way teams collaborate and how artificial intelligence (AI) is improving AEC workflows.
Real-world industry applications of AI, BIM and more
In fact, the transformative impact of AI and other emerging technologies like building information modelling (BIM) and digital twins is a central theme in much of the AU 2024 agenda.
On Wednesday afternoon, Samsung C&T will explain how it has developed a digital twin to manage energy in an office building of 100,000 sq m. The project takes a revolutionary approach to physical space by putting sustainable management and operations at the heart of construction.
Sustainable practices will also be discussed on Tuesday, where representatives from RESIA will detail their use of BIM methodology and factory robotics to build affordable and climate-resilient housing. Fuelled by Autodesk tools, the project illustrates innovation as the key to a brighter future.
Global leaders share their insights
Throughout the conference, attendees can get inspired with success stories from top voices in the industry. Hear how @ One Alliance is using Autodesk Construction Cloud to transform the UK water sector.
Learn how Zaha Hadid Architects is merging tectonism – an advanced architectural style – with AI, or find out more about the women shaping the AI revolution with representatives from Abonmarche, Autodesk, and Gensler.
Rapid transformation brings complex challenges, and some of these will be explored during More Hard Questions: A Multidiscipline Panel on BIM and Digital Transformation on Tuesday afternoon.
In continuation of AU 2022’s engaging sessions, Hard Questions Only, and 2023’s, Harder Questions, the session brings together experts from AECOM, JBB, Thornton Tomasetti, Turner Construction, Woods Bagot and Guardian. They’ll unpack some of the toughest dilemmas facing the industry and pose eye-opening solutions.
The challenge of keeping businesses agile in the face of digital transformation will be the subject of Wednesday morning’s in person Theatre Talk, Business Resilience in the Digital Age, which will feature short high-impact talks from design and make pioneers.
Making connections that count
AU 2024 will enable both in-person and digital attendees to expand their network. It’s a smart way to meet industry professionals committed to open skill sharing and the free exchange of ideas. From newcomers to seasoned professionals, everyone’s welcome to participate in informal industry meetups.
These programmes will equip digital construction professionals at all stages of their career with the tools to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
While AU 2024 will help incubate new ideas and connections in the moment, it will also empower attendees in their longer-term pursuit of professional growth, innovation, and competitiveness.
Beyond the conference experience, AU 2024 aims to be a catalyst for high-impact new partnerships, projects and innovations. Attending this flagship event will ensure a culture of continuous year-round learning for individuals and organisations alike.
Secure an AU 2024 in-person pass today to gain a deeper understanding of emerging AEC technology, expand your skill set, transform your workflows, and maximise growth.
To attend virtually, sign up here.
