On Thursday 2 October 2025, the Digital Construction Hub, hosted by Build in Digital, will take centre stage at the final day of UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham. With a programme of insightful sessions, panels, and fireside chats, the Hub will showcase how technology, collaboration, and innovation are shaping the future of the built environment.
From sustainable energy transitions and digital skills development to artificial intelligence in construction, this year’s agenda promises to deliver practical strategies and real-world case studies for industry professionals seeking to accelerate digital adoption.
10:00–10:30
Networking Breakfast Session
The day begins with an informal networking breakfast session, providing a valuable opportunity for attendees to connect, exchange ideas, and set the tone for a day of knowledge sharing and collaboration.
10:30–11:15
How Innovative Partnerships are Powering Sustainability Across Large Property Portfolios
Hosted by the Energy Innovation Agency, this session will spotlight how collaborative partnerships are accelerating sustainability in construction and property management.
The presentation and panel discussion, chaired by David Schiele, Director, will feature industry leaders including Kevin Aisbitt, Innovation Project Manager, alongside additional panellists to be announced.
Key themes include:
- Adoption of low-carbon technologies such as energy-efficient retrofits and renewable energy integration.
- Smart energy systems and data-driven solutions supporting measurable environmental impact.
- Case studies demonstrating how partnerships are delivering tangible carbon and cost savings.
- Strategies for scaling innovative solutions across construction, infrastructure, and urban development projects.
This session is designed for developers, contractors, policymakers, and sustainability professionals looking to integrate proven, collaborative approaches into their projects.
11:30–12:15
Construction Coach Fireside Chat
Led by Maria Coulter, Founder of Construction Coach, this fireside chat will offer insights into leadership, resilience, and professional growth in the digital era of construction.
The session will highlight how industry professionals can navigate transformation with confidence while ensuring career longevity and business success.
12:30–13:15
Enhancing the Built Environment in a Digital Age: Developing the Skills for the Future
The construction sector is undergoing rapid transformation through BIM, digital construction technologies, and data-driven project delivery. Yet, this progress brings a critical challenge: the digital skills gap in construction.
This BRE-hosted panel will be chaired by Alison Nicholl, Head of Constructing Excellence, with contributions from Mike Tofton, BIM & Digital Construction Lead, and other panellists soon to be confirmed.
Topics will include:
- Upskilling the current workforce to embrace digital tools and workflows.
- Embedding digital skills training within education and industry pipelines.
- Overcoming cultural barriers that limit digital adoption.
- Preparing the industry for a sustainable, technology-driven future.
13:30–14:15
Breaking Barriers: Tackling the Top Three AI Scepticisms Holding Back UK Construction
Artificial intelligence is widely recognised as a transformative force, but its potential in construction is being held back by persistent scepticism.
This session, delivered by Andrew Whyatt-Sames, Co-Founder, will directly address the three biggest challenges to AI adoption in the sector:
- Skills gap – building capability and confidence to use AI effectively.
- Data quality and legacy systems – resolving integration issues to unlock AI’s full potential.
- Trust, reliability, and safety – fostering a culture of responsible and transparent AI use.
The discussion will explore practical strategies for AI implementation in construction projects, highlighting how organisations can overcome barriers and achieve real productivity gains.
14:30–15:15
NIMA Fireside Chat
The day will conclude with a fireside chat hosted by NIMA (details to be confirmed). As one of the UK’s leading advocates for information management and digital construction standards, NIMA’s contribution promises to provide a strategic perspective on data-driven collaboration in construction projects.
Why attend the Digital Construction Hub at UKCW?
The Digital Construction Hub offers a unique opportunity for industry professionals to:
- Gain insights into the latest digital construction technologies.
- Discover real-world case studies driving sustainability and efficiency.
- Explore AI, BIM, and data innovation for the built environment.
- Build connections with peers, thought leaders, and solution providers.
Whether you are a developer, contractor, policymaker, or technology specialist, the Hub will provide actionable strategies to support your digital journey.
Register for free
Attendance at UKCW Birmingham 2025 is free. Secure your place at the UK’s largest built environment event today.
Read next: “Skill, Baby, Skill” – NHBC warns Government – Build in Digital
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