January 2025 Vol. 80 No. 1
Features
Special tracks, training & competition headline UIC 2025
We are gearing up for Underground Infrastructure magazine’s 30th Underground Infrastructure Conference (UIC), March 4-6 in Houston.
Attend UIC and be part of a transformative event designed to inspire, educate, and connect infrastructure professions across the industry. From groundbreaking sessions to exclusive networking opportunities, this year’s conference promises an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Here’s a closer look at some of the standout pre-conference sessions and professional mingling extras that await you:
HDD Reunion and Hall of Fame Class of ’25 Induction
March 5
Celebrate the legends of the Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) industry at this special event. The HDD Reunion and Hall of Fame Induction ceremony honor pioneers who have made significant contributions to the field. It’s the perfect opportunity to network with colleagues, industry leaders and innovators while paying tribute to the achievements that have shaped the industry. Don’t miss this evening of camaraderie and inspiration! Learn more here.
CUIRE Training & Certification Schools
Monday, March 3
The Center for Underground Infrastructure Research & Education (CUIRE) returns with its 23rd Annual Pipeline and Trenchless Technology Training and Certification Schools. This comprehensive program is tailored for public officials, transportation agencies, engineers, utility personnel, and contractors involved in utility construction, renewal, and management. Attendees can earn up to 12 Professional Development Hours (PDHs) while gaining valuable insights into cutting-edge technologies and practices.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, this training is an unmissable opportunity to enhance your expertise. Details are here.
NASSCO Inspector Training Certification Program (ITCP) for Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP)
March 3-4
Presenter: Laurie Perkins, PE, Training Director, NASSCO Inc.
Gain specialized knowledge in pipeline renewal technologies through this comprehensive course. Designed for municipalities and engineers, the program covers:
- Theoretical foundations and specifications for CIPP technology
- Quality assurance and inspection practices
- An open-book exam to certify your expertise
With limited seats available, early registration is highly recommended to secure your spot. View the ITCP program, however, you must register at NASSCO.org.
Confined Space Training and Challenge
Training: Wednesday, March 5 (8:00 a.m.–Noon)
Presenter: Dennis Pivin, CSP, Director HSE, NASSCO
Learn OSHA-compliant confined space protocols through an engaging, hands-on course featuring NASSCO’s mobile confined space training simulator. Participants will combine classroom learning with real-world scenarios to develop critical safety skills.
Challenge: Tuesday, March 4 (3:00–5:00 p.m., Exhibit Hall Safety Zone)
Put your skills to the test in this high-energy competition! Teams of 2–4 members will tackle challenges such as entry protocols and retrieval simulations. With space limited to six teams, this is a must-attend event for those eager to showcase their expertise.
Open Simulator Access: Thursday, March 6 (9:00–11:00 a.m.)
Explore the training simulator at your own pace, with trainers on hand to answer any questions.
Don’t Miss Out on These Must-Attend Programs
Seats for these specialized sessions and events are filling quickly. Be sure to add these sessions to your UIC 2025 registration today!
UIC 2025 isn’t just a conference; it’s a movement shaping the next era of our industry. Whether you’re looking to earn certifications, gain new skills, or build meaningful connections, this event has something for everyone. Don’t wait—register today and take the next step in your professional journey.
Read on to learn more about what’s in store for you during UIC. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Karen Francis
Convention Director
UIC Event Schedule
Monday, March 3:
- Exhibitor Move In 9:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
- CUIRE Schools 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
- NASSCO ITCP-CIPP 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, March 4:
- Morning Education Sessions 8:00-10:25 a.m.
- NASSCO ITCP-CIPP 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
- Midday Exhibit Hours 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
- MVP Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. (ticketed event)
- Afternoon Education Sessions 1:30-2:55 p.m.
- Afternoon Exhibits + Mixer 3:00-5:00 p.m.
- UI Awards 6:00-8:45 p.m. (ticketed event)
Wednesday, March 5:
- Morning Education Sessions 8:00-10:25 a.m.
- Midday Exhibit Hours 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
- Afternoon Education Sessions 1:30-3:00 p.m.
- Afternoon Exhibits + Mixer 3:00-5:00 p.m.
- HDD Reunion & Hall of Fame 5:15-6:45 p.m. (ticketed event)
Thursday, March 6:
- Morning Education Sessions 8:00-9:25 a.m.
- Exhibits 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Unforgettable connections make UIC events special
Connecting with like-minded professionals at UIC’s special events is more than just networking—it’s the launchpad for partnerships that can transform your projects and elevate your career. Prepare for an extraordinary lineup of experiences designed to leave you inspired, energized, and ready to tackle the future of infrastructure. These events are tailored for every attendee, ensuring you won’t want to miss a single moment of excitement!
MVP Luncheon
Join the sewer and water industry for an exclusive celebration of this year’s Most Valuable Professional, Mark L. Boyer, CEO of Boyer Inc. Co-sponsored by the Underground Construction Technology Association (UCTA) and Underground Infrastructure magazine and held in conjunction with UIC, the MVP Luncheon is a unique opportunity to recognize his outstanding contributions while enjoying a dynamic atmosphere of collaboration and recognition. Tickets and sponsorships are available by contacting UCTA.
HDD Reunion and Hall of Fame
Step into a night of nostalgia and inspiration as we honor the trailblazers of Horizontal Directional Drilling. The HDD Reunion and Hall of Fame Induction ceremony celebrate the legends who have shaped the industry while offering unparalleled opportunities to connect with today’s innovators. Don’t miss this extraordinary event where past, present, and future converge. Learn more here and register today!
Confined Space Challenge
Get ready for a high-energy event that will test your skills and push your limits. The Confined Space Challenge combines hands-on learning with thrilling competition. Teams of 2–4 will tackle real-world scenarios, including proper entry protocols and retrieval simulations, all under the guidance of safety experts. Showcase your expertise, bond with your peers, and compete for the ultimate bragging rights in underground safety. Get details here!
Explore Session Technologies Up Close in the Exhibit Hall
The exhibit hall is the dynamic core of UIC – a bustling hub where innovative technology and groundbreaking solutions come to life. Open Tuesday and Wednesday 10:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. and again from 3 - 5 p.m. and Thursday 9:30 a.m. to noon, it’s more than a place to browse; it’s where the concepts discussed in education sessions transform into hands-on experiences. Engage directly with state-of-the-art equipment, tools, and services that are revolutionizing the underground infrastructure industry.
Step inside and immerse yourself in a world of innovation. Whether you’re exploring trenchless solutions, asset management tools, or the latest in HDD equipment, the exhibit hall offers a rare opportunity to interact one-on-one with solution providers, ask questions, and see technologies in action. It’s your chance to gain practical insights that can elevate your projects to new heights.
Fuel your conference experience with a complimentary attendee lunch in the exhibit hall (while supplies last). This is your perfect opportunity to recharge, connect with peers, and explore exhibitors at your own pace.
Don’t forget to stop by the lively exhibit hall mixers Tuesday and Wednesday from 3 to 5 p.m. so you can unwind and forge meaningful connections over refreshments in a vibrant setting.
Here’s the list of companies that signed up early:
Make plans now to see them!
Exhibitor Corner
UIC attracts top-tier professionals responsible for billions of dollars in underground infrastructure projects. With engineers, contractors, municipal leaders, and utility professionals making up the majority of attendees, your equipment and technologies will be seen by the people who matter most.
Plus, leverage exclusive events like the HDD Reunion, exhibit hall receptions, and attendee lunches to forge meaningful connections with existing and potential clients. These structured and informal interactions can lead to long-term partnerships.
With comprehensive marketing benefits, exhibitors and sponsors gain exposure across multi-channel promotions, including:
- Listings in Underground Infrastructure magazine and the conference website
- Social media spotlights and customized graphics
- Presence in email campaigns and on-site event materials
UIC offers flexible packages to fit your goals. Booth rates start at $2,975 for a 10’x10’ space and sponsorships start at $800. There’s an option for businesses of all sizes.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of UIC 2025. Reserve your booth or sponsorship today to expand your reach, connect with decision-makers, and lead the underground infrastructure industry into the future. For more details, contact Karen@UndergroundInfrastructure.com, Josh@UndergroundInfrastructure.com or Melissa.Smith@GulfEnergyInfo.com.
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