September 2025 Vol. 80 No. 9
Features
UIC 2026 is where infrastructure meets, learns
The pace of change in underground infrastructure has never been faster, and the opportunities have never been greater. Across sewer, water, gas, electric, fiber and energy pipelines, the industry is rethinking how construction, rehabilitation and asset management of our critical infrastructure is handled. At the center of it all? The 2026 Underground Infrastructure Conference (UIC) is a concentrated, two-day event aligning education, equipment, technologies and relationships. Make plans now to attend UIC at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, in San Antonio, Texas, Jan. 27-28 to gain insights that will reshape how you do business.
New Kind of Event
UIC 2026 has been strategically reimagined to reflect what today’s infrastructure professionals actually need:
- Purpose-driven education
- Immersive technology experiences
- Actual ROI in real time
Each morning kicks off with benchmark education from 8 a.m. to noon. These focused sessions deliver practical insight across construction, rehabilitation and asset management. From noon to 5 p.m., the spotlight shifts to the exhibit hall, where Center Stage panels, live Technical Theater sessions and on-floor networking drive meaningful connections.
The most current market information available if featured during the education program. Industry volunteers from several UIC committees reviewed, selected and developed the topnotch learning opportunity for attendees and exhibitors alike. Infrastructure experts lead the sessions. The main UIC program qualifies for Professional Development Hours (PDHs) awarded by the University of Texas at Arlington. (CEUs are also available.) Whether you are new to the industry or looking to learn more, UIC’s targeted tracks help you find sessions most relevant for your education and business needs. Here’s a glimpse at a few of the targeted tracks and sessions for 2026 (program is subject to change). For the complete program and to register, visit UI-Conference.com today.
Sewer
Effective construction and rehabilitation of sewers under various conditions and diverse challenges will be explored through case studies, technology options and innovative solutions.
- Overcoming Design & Construction Challenges in Deep Underground Infrastructure.
Speakers: Reyna Johnson, LAN; Karrisa Weitzel & Emile Lang, Trinity River Authority of TX
- How We Lined, Tapped, and Tunneled to Victory: Dallas North Trunk Phase 2 Wastewater Interceptor.
Speaker: Benjamin Gleichert, Kimley-Horn Associates
Spray Liners
The technology's versatility, proven performance, and environmental benefits position spray liners as a key solution for addressing aging infrastructure challenges while maintaining service reliability and extending asset life.
- 36” x 260’ SIPP Repair with Elbows, Verticals, Through Walls and Erosion Corrosion with Limited Equipment Access.
Speaker: Clint Savage, Elite Pipeline Services
- Rehabilitation of Large-Diameter Pressure Water Main Using Third- Generation Polymeric Lining.
Speakers: Randall Cooper, SIPP Americas; Mike Figlio, Michels Pipeline
Sewer/Water
Learn about the latest technologies and methods for meeting the increased demands on sewer/water system construction and rehabilitation.
- Accuracy & Precision for Predicting I/I and Rainfall-Dependent I/I.
Speaker: George Kurz, Sewer Capacity Management - Value Proposition for Rehabilitating versus Replacing Pipelines. Speaker: Michael Martinez, CPM Pipelines
Exhibit hall is where solutions meet decision-makers
UIC is an active, targeted hub designed to accelerate exhibitor and sponsor visibility and ultimately drive business outcomes. Whether you’re showcasing equipment, technologies or launching a service, here’s how to stand out:
- Reserve a Booth: With just two days of concentrated show hours (Noon–5 p.m.), all eyes are on the floor, and high-traffic zones near Technical Theaters are available.
- Book a Technical Theater Slot: Deliver a powerful 25-minute session right on the show floor, eligible for continuing education credit. Unlike the classroom settings, use this space to showcase a commercial presentation.
- Sponsor the Innovation Lounge, Lunch or Exhibit Hall Reception: Be seen in the moments where attendees gather, learn, and make decisions.
- Additional high-visibility sponsorships exist outside the hall that will keep all eyes on your brand, like the track sponsorship that features your logo on the head table and your logo on every other seat back.
UIC brings together a crowd of qualified professionals, including engineers, contractors, senior management and utility operators – people who control billions of dollars in purchasing decisions. Whether you’re aiming to build strategic partnerships or capture leads that drive revenue, this is where you need to be.
The attendee breakdown says it all:
- 22 percent engineers
- 20 percent senior management and vice presidents
- 25 percent business operations
- 18 percent owners, presidents and directors
In just two days, you can accomplish what might take months of travel, outreach and follow-up calls.
All exhibitors receive recognition in Underground Infrastructure magazine, the conference app, email marketing, and onsite signage plus full-conference passes for your team. Contact Josh@UndergroundInfrastructure.com or Peter.Royall@GulfEnergyInfo.com and secure your spot today.
Thank you sponsors!
Hotel Contessa: Your River Walk Retreat
UIC hotel blocks historically sell out fast, and Hotel Contessa's premium positioning makes early reservation essential. This all-suite luxury property sits right on the San Antonio River Walk and is just steps from the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. Staying here means: no shuttles, no rideshares, just walk out the door and you’re at UIC in a few minutes. Hotel Contessa has elegant suites with floor-to-ceiling views, providing you a comfortable, inspiring space to recharge.
When you stay at the headquarters hotel, you’re not just booking a room – you’re positioning yourself at the center of the UIC experience. Rates for this luxury hotel are $229 plus $9 amenity fee.
Rooms are limited, and the block will sell out fast. Get your room early! Book today at Gulf Energy 2026
Invest In Your Future
UIC is still one of the most economical business building and training events around. The program is focused, and designed with you in mind.
- 2-Day full conference before Nov. 1 $575 (increases to $740 after)
- 1-Day full conference before Nov. 1 $365 (increases to $425 after)
- Exhibit Hall before Nov. 1 $75 (increases to $85 after)
In underground infrastructure, timing and positioning determine success. Make sure both work in your favor in San Antonio. Visit UI-Conference.com for full details, exhibit space selection and hotel information.
Book early. Show up ready to learn and network.
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