From sailing the high seas to navigating the digital revolution in construction, architect Matthew Fooks is looking forward to this month's Melbourne Build Expo. Matthew knows plenty about navigation, having just returned from two years sailing around the Bahamas and beyond. When it comes to design and construction, he says the real challenge lies in navigating digital transformation — as AI, BIM and automation rapidly redefine how projects are planned, designed, resourced and delivered.

At this year’s Melbourne Build Expo, the Digital Construction Summit will spotlight the innovations driving that change. Over two big days, industry-insiders will take a closer look at how the latest tech tools are reshaping processes, smoothing workflows, reducing risk and opening up untold possibilities across the industry.

“There’s so much to cover and catch up on at the Expo, but I have to say this summit is at the top of my agenda,” Matthew says. “I’m particularly looking forward to the sessions on digital twins, BIM and AI in project management.”

“Having worked on and delivered residential, sports and education projects in the US, China and here in Australia, I’ve seen just how quickly new tech and tools are transforming what’s possible in terms of design and project delivery, benefitting clients and communities alike.”

The following sessions are not to be missed…

 

Combining Building and Tech Business Know-How

The Summit opens with a bold prediction and what’s set to be a lively session: Beyond the Build: How Construction Companies Will Evolve into Tech Firms.

The message is clear — digital is no longer an add-on, it’s core business. Expect insights from Mark Wengritzky, National Systems & Operations Manager at Multiplex, who will show how established firms are retooling themselves as technology-driven operators, blending engineering know-how with data, platforms and new forms of collaboration.

 

Data & AI as the New Operating System

Next up an expert panel covers Data-Driven Construction & AI Integration, diving into how data flows and machine learning are making projects faster, smarter and less risky.

Ben May, Digital Director at AECOM, will outline how data pipelines are bridging design and delivery, while Serryn Eagleson, Digital Advisory Lead at Arup, will unpack the systems thinking behind these tools. Theodore Galanos, Generative AI Leader at Aurecon, will also share examples of AI in action in real-world design support.

 

Digital Twins Take Centre Stage

Digital twins are no longer futuristic concepts — they’re being used right now to simulate and optimise infrastructure. In Digital Twins: The Future of City Planning and Construction, Henry Okraglik, Global Lifecycle Digital Twins Lead at WSP, will explain how these virtual replicas are already changing maintenance, resilience and planning strategies. The session will highlight why digital twins are becoming the cornerstone of smarter, more connected cities.

 

BIM 2.0: Beyond Models

Few technologies have defined contemporary construction like BIM, but the next wave goes far beyond 3D drawings. The session Building Information Modelling and Beyond: Lifecycle Integration will bring together experts like Éadaoin McGovern, Digital Engineering Manager at CPB Contractors, and Kathy Nouri, Technical Director ANZ at Jacobs. They’ll discuss how BIM is being stretched across the entire lifecycle of assets, from concept to operation.

 

Virtual Design & Construction: Cutting Risk, Adding Value

Every project manager knows the pain of clashes, overruns and rework. That’s why Building Smarter: How Virtual Design and Construction Cuts Project Risks will be one of the hottest fireside chats of the Expo. Kevin Hogan, Head of Design & Digital Engineering at Kapitol Group, and Sina Yavari, Digital Engineering & 4D Planning Lead at ACCIONA, will share real-world lessons on how VDC is revolutionising coordination and dramatically reducing risk.

 

Smarter Cities, Better Futures

As part of the Smart Cities: How Technology is Shaping the Future of Melbourne’s Urban Development ‘fireside chat’, Robbie Robertson, Digital Experience Design Leader at Gensler APAC and Harman Singh, Board Member of the Australian Smart Communities Association will be comparing notes. They’ll explore smart solutions that enhance connectivity, sustainability, and quality of life in Melbourne's evolving urban landscape.

 

Hands-On Futures: AI in Project Management

For those who want to see digital tools in action, don’t miss the Future of Project Management Supercharged by AI Agents with WisyPlan workshop. It offers a glimpse into how AI agents can autonomously manage data, predict bottlenecks, and streamline workflows — hinting at a future where project management itself is augmented by intelligent digital assistants.

 

Don’t miss it…

The insights shared at the Expo will help shape the way we design, deliver and manage our built environment in the years ahead. For contractors, engineers, architects, builders and city planners, the takeaway is clear: the future of construction is digital, and it’s happening now.

“For me, the Summit offers a great opportunity to hear from industry leaders, understand the challenges and rewards of digital transformation, and think more broadly about how we apply the latest thinking and tech in our own projects,” Matthew says.

“It’s also the perfect chance to catch up with colleagues, clients and collaborators across the industry. After two years on the high seas, I’m sure that will be a highlight.”

📅 Digital Construction Summit  | 22-23 October

📍 Melbourne Build Expo 2025

 

About The Author

Shauna Hurley is a freelance writer and podcast producer who’s never short of questions when it comes to construction, tech and the built environment. She specialises in 1:1 interviews with industry insiders that uncover the insights, emerging trends and tech tools shaping the way we design, connect and build today.

For more of Shauna’s work visit shaunahurley.com or connect with her on LinkedIn.