Top AEC Events to Attend in Q1 2026
The AEC industry is entering 2026 with a very different mindset than it had just a few years ago.
Digital transformation is no longer experimental. BIM, AI, prefabrication, data-driven operations, and construction technology have moved from “innovation tracks” to core business priorities.
As a result, AEC events in Q1 2026 are no longer just about discovering what’s new. They’re about learning how to operate better, scale faster, and make technology work in real projects.
This curated list highlights the most relevant AEC conferences, summits, and trade shows happening in Q1 2026, based on audience profile, technical depth, seniority level, and real value for architects, engineers, contractors, developers, and technology leaders.
Our AEC Events selection in America: Where Scale Meets Execution
CES 2026, Las Vegas, USA (January 2026)
CES continues to be one of the largest technology events in the world, and its relevance to the AEC industry grows every year.
In 2026, expect strong representation around AI, XR, robotics, automation, digital twins, and smart infrastructure.
While CES is not construction-specific, it provides early visibility into technologies that will eventually reshape how buildings are designed, built, and operated.
Advancing Computational Building Design, Austin, USA (January 2026)
This conference is highly relevant for architects, engineers, and computational designers working with parametric design, automation, and advanced modeling workflows.
The sessions in Advancing Computational Building Design are practical, technical, and grounded in real-world applications.
If your work involves scripting, generative design, or bridging design intent with constructability, this event delivers strong value.
Advancing Prefabrication, Dallas, USA (February 2026)
Prefabrication continues to gain momentum as firms look to reduce risk, improve quality, and control costs.
Advancing Prefabrication brings together contractors, manufacturers, and technology providers focused on end-to-end prefab workflows.
The audience skews senior, with strong representation from decision-makers exploring how industrialized construction fits into their delivery models.
WestPack 2026, Anaheim, USA (February 2026)
While traditionally manufacturing-focused, WestPack has increasing relevance for AEC professionals involved in modular construction, automation, and advanced materials. It’s a strong event for understanding how industrial processes influence construction efficiency.
AIA Leadership Summit, Washington, D.C., USA (February 2026)
This summit targets architectural leaders navigating business growth, firm management, and industry change.
In 2026, AIA Leadership Summit topics increasingly intersect with technology strategy, workforce transformation, and data-informed decision-making.
HIMSS 2026, Las Vegas, USA (March 2026)
HIMSS is essential for professionals working in healthcare design and construction.
Digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and operational efficiency are central themes, making it relevant for AEC teams delivering complex healthcare facilities.
RETCON 2026, Las Vegas, USA (March 2026)
RETCON connects real estate owners, developers, and operators.
For AEC professionals working in retail, mixed-use, or large commercial developments, it offers insight into owner priorities and investment trends.
New York Build Expo, New York City, USA (March 2026)
One of the largest construction expos in the Northeast, New York Build attracts contractors, architects, and developers. With free tickets and a broad agenda, it’s accessible and useful for regional teams.
Europe: Standards, Sustainability, and Systems
MWC Barcelona 2026, Barcelona, Spain (March 2026)
MWC is increasingly relevant to the AEC industry as buildings become more connected. Topics around 5G, AI, data infrastructure, and smart systems directly impact how large projects are designed and operated.
Futurebuild 2026, London, UK (March 2026)
Futurebuild is a key event for professionals focused on sustainable construction, low-carbon design, and policy-driven innovation. It attracts a strong mix of engineers, designers, and decision-makers.
Looking for the full picture?
While this article highlights the most relevant AEC events for Q1 2026, the industry calendar moves fast. New conferences emerge, agendas evolve, and priorities shift throughout the year. That’s why e-verse maintains an always-up-to-date, curated event tracker inside **AEC Works.**
There, you’ll find a continuously updated list of AEC conferences, summits, trade shows, and tech events — categorized by region, focus area, seniority level, and strategic relevance.
Whether you’re planning attendance months in advance or scanning for last-minute opportunities, **AEC Works helps teams stay aligned with the events that truly matter, without relying on outdated lists or generic roundups.**
Make every event count
Attending conferences is easy — extracting real value from them is not.
To help AEC professionals move beyond passive attendance, Valentin Noves, CEO of e-verse, shares practical insights on how to approach industry events with intention.
In his video, Valentin breaks down how to define clear goals before you arrive, identify the right sessions and conversations, and turn short interactions into long-term professional value.
From networking strategies to learning takeaways you can actually bring back to your team, the video offers a grounded, experience-driven perspective on making events work for you — not the other way around.
Before you go, take a look:
Valentin Noves
I'm a versatile leader with broad exposure to projects and procedures and an in-depth understanding of technology services/product development. I have a tremendous passion for working in teams driven to provide remarkable software development services that disrupt the status quo. I am a creative problem solver who is equally comfortable rolling up my sleeves or leading teams with a make-it-happen attitude.
