Building the Future: digital innovations at UK Construction Week

From AI and robotics, to BIM and generative design, the latest developments and innovations in digital construction will be taking centre stage at UK Construction Week (UKCW) London when doors open next week.

Taking place at Excel from 12-14 May, UKCW returns for the largest and most comprehensive construction event in the UK calendar. Running alongside Futurebuild and The Stone & Surfaces Show, the UK’s built environment super event is expected to attract over 25,000 visitors over three days.

New for 2026 and one of six stages delivering over 150 hours of CPD accredited seminars, The ConTech and AI Hub will bring together the brightest minds and the most forward thinking technologies transforming the built environment. As digital adoption accelerates across the construction sector, visitors can discover how cutting edge technology, automation, and AI are transforming construction workflows, from smart machinery and digital equipment management to innovative site planning and productivity solutions.

Opened by architect and Channel 4 presenter George Clarke, UKCW London attracts exhibitors from across the globe with big names such as Build Concierge, Carbon Sherpa, Converge, Inco Robotics, Kanna, Nosmo Tech and Trackunit all set to showcase.

Talk highlights on The ConTech & AI Hub include:

Tuesday 12th May

Cutting-edge AI applications across the full project lifecycle, 11:15am

A holistic perspective on how artificial intelligence is becoming an integrated partner throughout the entire project lifecycle. Rather than focusing solely on discrete technological interventions, this session considers AI as an ecosystem that connects strategy, design, delivery and long-term stewardship.

Speaker: Andrew Johnson (Associate, Okana)

The three C’s for building a more sustainable digital future: construction, circularity and collaboration, 3:00pm

Women in BIM explores how construction, circularity and collaboration form the foundation of a more sustainable and digitally enabled built environment. This session will highlight how innovative digital practices and inclusive collaboration can drive circular approaches to construction, reducing waste, improving efficiency and promoting long-term sustainability. Gain insights into emerging technologies, real-world case studies and the vital role of continuous learning in achieving a more resilient built environment.

Speakers: Andrea Charlson (Senior Sustainability Lead & Circular Economy Lead, The Concrete Centre), Eve Choy (Sustainability Manager, Structure Tone), Heba Bevan (CEO, UtterBerry), Marie Grieve (MD, Costello Palmer & Global Vice Chair, Women in BIM)

Wednesday 13th May

Real world application of AI in construction and what people don’t tell you, 1:15pm

Explore how artificial intelligence is moving from buzzword to practical tool in the construction industry. Rather than replacing human expertise, AI is augmenting it, helping teams analyse complex data, anticipate risks and automate repetitive tasks. This session will highlight tangible examples where AI is already delivering real benefits, from improved efficiency on site to enhanced safety outcomes.

Speaker: Lilian Ho (Program Director at Zigurat Institute of Technology & Regional Lead and Mentor for Women in BIM)

Panel: From carbon data to commercial advantage: The role of ConTech & AI, 2:00pm

This panel will explore how construction technology and AI are transforming the way the industry collects, analyses and uses carbon data. From automated reporting and supply chain transparency to predictive insights that influence design, procurement and materials selection, examine how digital tools can turn carbon intelligence into a strategic advantage helping organisations win work, reduce risk and deliver more sustainable projects.

Speakers: David Mason (Head of Environment Technical, Skansa), Doug Johnson (Founder & Director, Mesh), Tom Rickey (Partnerships Lead, Sage)

Thursday 14th May

Panel: Building the future: AI, generative design and robotics in construction, 11:10am

Join our expert panel as they explore how AI, generative design, and robotics are reshaping the construction industry. Panellists will discuss practical applications, challenges, and opportunities from automating complex tasks on site to optimising design and improving sustainability.

Speakers: Henry Fenby-Taylor (Co-Founder, Athenophilia), Huda As’ad (Managing Director, Accenture), Nadia Joanes (BIM Coordinator, Pascall+Watson Architects), Robert Claridge (Learning Solutions Owner, Laing O’Rourke), Shirin Dora (Senior Lecturer, Loughborough University)

Panel: From factory to algorithm: The next generation of MMC and AI in construction, 1:45pm

In this panel, experts explore how AI and digital tools are reshaping the way buildings are designed, manufactured and delivered. From optimising offsite housing systems to analysing construction data in real time, the discussion will examine how algorithms can unlock smarter, faster and more scalable construction.

Speakers: Anthony Greer (Founder and Executive Director for Corporate Strategy, TALO), Doug Johnson (Founder & Director, Mesh), Henry Fenby-Taylor (Co-Founder, Athenophilia)

Sam Patel, Divisional Director, UK Construction Week London, commented: “Staying ahead of the curve when it comes to digital innovations that are driving greater efficiency, sustainability and safety across the sector has never been more important than now. At UKCW, we provide a key platform where professionals can learn about these developments and gain the first-hand insight needed to adopt the latest technologies shaping the future of the construction industry.”

Sponsored by Sage, Wyre, HotelPlanner, Zurich Resilience Solutions and Build Warranty, UKCW London will feature over 300 leading brands; over 25 trade bodies and associations, including the Federation of Master Builders, CIBSE, and the National Association Of Air Duct-Cleaners UK.

Visitors can register for free by visiting: https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2026/cab-campaign.

Following the London show in May 2026, UKCW Birmingham will return to the NEC from 29 September to 1 October 2026.