Please note, the comprehensive program is available. Expand a track name to see the details. A downloadable “at a glance” pdf of the program is below.
Education Program
TUESDAY, JAN. 27
8-8:25
Overcoming Design & Construction Challenges in Deep Underground Infrastructure
Explore lessons learned that can subsequently be applied to large-diameter gravity pipe design in deep installations.
Speakers: Reyna Johnson, P.E., Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam; Karissa Weitzel and Emile Lang, Trinity River Authority of Texas
8:30-8:55
How we Lined, Tapped and Tunneled to Victory: Dallas North Trunk Phase 2 Wastewater Interceptor
Gain insights into the Dallas North Trunk Phase 2 project, covering fiberglass pipe installation, sliplining, CIPP rehab, and hand tunneling. Learn how trenchless technology solutions tackled design challenges.
Speaker: Ben Gleichert, Kimley-Horn Associates
9-9:25
Quitman 78″ Sanitary Sewer Emergency Repair
Learn about the interaction between stakeholder/owner, contractor, subcontractor, and design consultant to deal with an emergency situation warranting prompt attention to design and construction.
Speakers: Tim McQueary, P.E., HB Trenchless; Dan Oefner, P.E., Ph.D., City of Houston; John Stiver, P.E., Stiver Engineering
9:30-10:25
Concrete Manhole & Wastewater Infrastructure Rehab: Keys to a Successful Project
An overview of recommended technical design considerations, QA/QC criteria and installation good practices to help promote the successful rehabilitation of manholes and other concrete wastewater infrastructure.
Speaker: Jeff Maier, P.E., Dewberry Engineering
10:30-10:55
Corrosion to Rehab: Results of Coating Inspection of Brownsville PUB SWWTP
Owners and engineers will learn of a high-build epoxy that can rehabilitate and protect concrete in the most severe wastewater conditions imaginable. The 27-month inspection proves the coating is performing as expected.
Speakers: Brandon Gerardy, Garney Construction; JB Conant, Warren Environmental
11-12
KEYNOTE
The UIC 2026 Keynote address will highlight transformative innovation that has earned SAWS a place among Leading Utilities of the World, and blend technical excellence, strategic foresight, and a deep commitment to community and environmental stewardship.
Speaker: Andrea Beymer, P.E., Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, San Antonio Water System (SAWS)
8-8:25
36″x260′ SIPP Repair with Elbows, Verticals, Through Walls and Erosion Corrosion with Limited Equipment Access
Learn that SIPP contractors need to be prepared for the unexpected and elite execution to repair this pipeline through limited (18″) openings.
Speaker: Clint Savage, Elite Pipeline Services
8:30-8:55
Rehab of Large-Diameter Pressure Water Main Using Third-Generation Polymeric Lining
Learn how a critical steel water pipe supplying a busy coastal community was restored to full pressure service using a trenchless application of a third-generation spray-in-place polymer.
Speakers: Randy Cooper, Sipp Americas LLC; Mike Figlio, Michels Pipeline
9-9:25
Three-Edge Bearing Test of Polymeric Lined Reinforced Concrete Pipes
The presentation will help attendees provide guidance on material selection and lining thickness decisions for future infrastructure applications involving reinforced concrete pipelines.
Speakers: Kawalpreet Kaur, Paria Hamidzadeh, and Mohammad Najafi, P.E., UT-Arlington/CUIRE
9:30-9:55
Enriching SIPP for Structural Applications through Foam Padding and Carbon Fiber
Explore how foam and carbon fiber are transforming Spray-In-Place Pipe (SIPP) system, enhancing structural performance, durability, and efficiency for next-generation trenchless rehabilitation of critical infrastructure.
Speaker: Tom McAndrew, SippTech
10-10:25
Two 24″ x 25′ Vertical SIPP Repairs on Water Pump Cans
Learn about a unique way of doing a manless entry vertical 24″ SIPP repair with no drips, runs with a reinforced high-build NSF61 Epoxy through an 18″ adapter flange.
Speaker: Scott Dishon, Elite Pipeline Services
8-8:25
And I Thought This was Just a 48″ Water Line Project
Gain insight into large-diameter water line design in parallel with drainage improvements in crowded rights-of-way requiring existing infrastructure rehabilitation and relocation, and stakeholder coordination.
Speakers: David Olf, David Warner, and Michael Gurka, Quiddity; Panduvanga Kuruva, City of Houston
8:30-8:55
Tailored Tunneling Solutions: Adapting to Geotechnical & Environmental Risks
Case study of large-diameter water pipeline, including risk evaluation for methods to install 84″ diameter pipe within tunnel casing. Provides lessons learned during construction.
Speakers: Matt Gaughan and Kalyani Vemulapali, Plus Six Engineering
9-9:25
The Butterfly Effect: Adding 66″ BFVs Increases City Water Supply Resiliency
All municipalities are working with aging infrastructure that must be retrofitted. This design offers a way to reduce cost and downtime when making a strategic connection.
Speakers: Paul Dossett, P.E., Carollo Engineers Inc.; Matt Stevens, Dallas Water Utilities
9:30-9:55
Preparation of a Cost Guide for Trenchless Pipeline Renewal & Replacement Methods
A cost guide for trenchless pipeline renewal offers regionally adjusted planning data, supports budgeting and comparison of methods, and addresses data gaps to improve decision-making and project cost reliability.
Speakers: Paria Hamidzadeh, Marjan Moradi, and Mohammad Najafi, P.E., UT-Arlington/CUIRE
10-10:25
Crossing Paths: Minor Problem for a Large Tunnel
Learn about a case history showing the importance of surveying existing utilities, as well as as-built drawings. The presentation will also discuss the impact to the contract.
Speakers: Yovani Zelaya, P.E., GFT Infrastructure Inc.; Chase Juhl, P.E., Tunnel Tex
TUESDAY, JAN. 27
8-8:55
Mitigating Risk Through Condition Assessment: L-301 PCCP1
The presentation provides a comprehensive, real-world case study of how a major utility – Trinity River Authority (TRA) – is taking a proactive, data-driven approach to large-diameter pipeline management.
Speakers: Kevin Weeks, PICA Corp.; Wes Pierce, Trinity River Authority of Texas
9-9:25
Hidden Leaks: External Methods Struggle to Confirm Leaks Identified by Inline Inspection
Following an inline leak inspection, the City of McKinney struggled to confirm the locations of three identified leaks with external loggers. Leveraging the accuracy of the inline inspection, we were able to locate all leaks.
Speaker: Steve Purkiss, Xylem
9:30-9:55
Mapped, Measured, Verified: Cobb County’s Deep Dive into a 9,700′ Force Main
Learn how Cobb County used ultrasonic inspection to identify force main wall loss, joint deflection, and mapping errors, leveraging high-resolution data to improve risk management, planning, and long-term asset reliability.
Speaker: Alec Propst, Freese and Nichols Inc.
10-10:25
Performance-Based Asset Management for Underground Utilities
Learn how utilities track long-term trenchless rehabilitation performance, manage condition data, and optimize capital investments for underground infrastructure.
Speakers: Bhavani Chowdary Chimata and Madhuri Arjun, University of Texas-Arlington; Kruthika Kokku, Eyncon Engineering & Surveying LLC
10:30-10:55
Leveraging Smart Pigging Technologies as Cost-Effective Method to Clean & Evaluate Pressurized Pipe Integrity
Smart-pigging is becoming an impressive technology to clean, restore, and help rehabilitate pressurized pipeline infrastructure. This session will present the “what, when, where & how much” for utility managers.
Speaker: Mark Wade, P.E., Woolpert
8-8:55
Confined Space Safety Course
description to come
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9-9:25
Designing a Complete Damage Prevention System: A Data-Driven Approach
Interpret recent DIRT Report findings to identify leading damage causes. Apply marking and locating best practices backed by data to reduce utility strikes. Design a scalable, data-informed damage prevention strategy.
Speaker: Spencer Knott, Trident Solutions
9:30-10:25
Into the Looking Glass of Utility Strikes
Examine the life cycle of a project, the possible origins of a utility strike, when personnel should begin asking questions to reduce risks, and what and who is safety,
Speaker: Sean Jones, Fairfax County Virginia-Department of Public Works
10:30-11:25
Safety Saves You Money!
description to come
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8-8:25
HDDA: Accomplishments, Goals & Training for the HDD Industry
description to come
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8:30-8:55
Understanding Various Tracking Systems
Gain a better understanding of the differences between overhead, magnetic, and gyro tracking systems as well as a discussion around wired vs wireless transmission systems.
Speaker: Michael Rybak, InRock
9-9:55
Utility Locates: How is the Industry Adapting?
description to come
Speaker:
10-10:25
Texas City Saves Time & Money with HDD: A DYI Approach
A city in the Dallas/Fort Worth area has its own HDD rig and a crew trained to operate it. The benefits of having this capability will be reviewed and the City’s continued support for the program will be discussed.
Speakers: Craig Fisher, Westlake Pipe & Fittings; Justin Dean and Josh Oler, City of Richland Hills
10:30-10:55
Communicating with Your Maxi Rig System
Explore innovative tools and technologies to streamline HDD data communication. Learn how to capture installation data accurately and integrate it seamlessly into project management, enhancing efficiency and project success.
Speaker: Richard Levings, American Augers
11-12 p.m.
Tort Reform Impacts HDD/Underground Construction Companies
description to come
Speaker(s):
Center Stage (Exhibit Hall)
1-2 p.m.
Coming to Grips with Consent Decrees
description to come
Speaker(s):
2-3 p.m.
Small Rig Contractors Roundtable
description to come
Panelists: Jim Watland, Watland Custom Underground LLC; Aaron Graff, Dakota Utility; Mark Seriani, Mark Construction
3-4 p.m.
Big Rig Contractors Roundtable
description to come
Panelists:
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28
8-8:25
Accuracy & Precision for Predicting I/I & Rainfall-Dependent I/I
Learn how to interpret the quality of sewer flow monitoring data in terms of accuracy and precision. Simple, non-proprietary regression techniques will be explained and demonstrated.
Speaker: George Kurz, P.E., Sewer Capacity Management
8:30-9:25
Engineering Ethics
This course meets requirements for Professional Engineer (P.E.) license renewal; receive PDHs (Professional Development Hours) and certificate.
Speaker: C. Vipu, P.E., Ph.D., University of Houston (Retired)
9:30-9:55
Hidden Cost of the Manhole: Rethinking Sewer Access for the 21st Century
Learn how to uncover hidden costs, improve budgets and asset management, enhance worker safety, increase efficiency, and drive innovation to position your city for the future.
Speaker: Jason Shriver, Quick Stream Solutions USA Inc.
10-10:25
Leveraging Time & Cost Savings of Trenchless Projects through Cooperative Purchasing
This session on cooperative purchasing promises to be a valuable resource for attendees, offering use cases and practical knowledge on how to save time, reduce costs, and meet deadlines in municipal infrastructure projects.
Speaker: Andrew Costa, Azuria
10:30-10:55
Environmental Performance Evaluation of Low-Volatile Organic Compound Liners in CIPP Technology
As municipalities seek cleaner infrastructure solutions and environmental regulations become more stringent, learn about technologies that balance high performance with sustainability.
Speakers: Parisa Beigvand and Mohammad Najafi, P.E., UT-Arlington/CUIRE
11-11:25
Optimized Manhole Replacement
Replacing cast iron manhole frame and covers requires lane closures, traffic congestion and hazards to drivers, as well as utility workers. Innovative products and techniques increase efficiency, safety and quality.
Speakers: Matt Stiller, RimRiser; Matt Kinson, Da-Lee Pavement Products; Taylor Scott, TMS Asphalt Specialties
11:30-12
Epoxy Rehab & Protective Coatings of Lift Stations
Owners and engineers will learn of a proven high-build epoxy that can rehabilitate and protect concrete in lift station environments for 50+ years. New and rehab LS will be described from surface prep to final testing.
Speakers: Misty Jameson, ACE Pipe Cleaning; JB Conant, Warren Environmental
9-9:25
City of Houston-Briar Hill: Trenchless Sewer Rebuild
Learn how to overcome unexpected sewer conditions using a geopolymer spray-applied pipe lining (SAPL).
Speakers: Ted Jones, P.E., GeoTree Solutions; Justin Mouton, Puris/PM Construction
9:30-9:55
Large-Diameter Corrugated Metal Pipe-Storm Sewer Rehab
Learn about methods used in condition assessment, engineering design methodology, challenges faced and solutions in rehabilitating large-diameter storm sewers.
Speakers: Linda Cassel, Danby Rehab; Bill Grubs, P.E., and Anthony Chapa, Boyer Inc.
10-10:55
How Sanitation Became the Cornerstone of Ancient Civilization
Explore humanity’s journey from nomadic life to the early Roman Empire, focusing on how sanitation systems evolved to support growing urban societies, while celebrating early innovations in waste management.
Speaker: Joe Schotthoefer, Doetsch Environmental Services
11-11:25
Innovative Solutions in Rehab & Construction: Extending Asset Lifespan in the Region of Peel
Discover cutting-edge and forward-thinking technologies and solutions to strengthen, protect and extend the life of critical infrastructure. See case studies from a progressive municipal region serving 1.5 million residents.
Speakers: Terry Martins, TCI Carbon Fibre Technologies; Anthony Parente, Region of Peel
11:30-12
Value Proposition for Rehabilitating vs Replacing Pipelines
Learn about the options related to rehabilitation of pipelines versus full replacement. FFRP liner applications will be discussed. Cost savings and impact reductions will be analyzed.
Speaker: Michael Martinez, CPM Pipelines
8-8:25
Tri-City Outfall: 2,370LF Microtunneling with 90″ Flowcrete and 2,400LF Opencut with 90″ FRPM
The Tri City outfall project balances open-cut and trenchless installation methods to install just under one mile of 90″ pipe in variable ground conditions.
Speakers: Carl Pitzer, Thompson Pipe Group; Tucker Toelke, Michels
8:30-8:55
Williamson Creek, McNeil & Davis, Oh My! Austin Water Embraces Tunneling for Large-Diameter Utilities
Learn about upcoming and ongoing Austin Water projects using advanced tunneling construction methods to minimize disruptions to the public and environment.
Speakers: Kane Wei, P.E., Austin Water; Chris Mason, P.E., Black & Veatch
9-9:25
Coordinated Microtunneling in Houston: 25,000′ Gravity Sewer
Executed without major delays, the Chelford program is a compelling case study in how regional infrastructure goals can be met through trenchless delivery models.
Speaker: David Ellett, Pate Garver LP
9:30-9:55
Best Route Between Manholes is not Always a Straight Line: Curved Microtunneling for Deep Interceptors
Explore how deep curved microtunneling enabled delivery of a high-capacity interceptor on an accelerated schedule, and the unique design and construction challenges of building a curvilinear microtunnel.
Speakers: Scott Wetzel, P.E., STV; Patricia Davis, P.E., City of Hutto, TX; Garrett Brittain, McKee Utility Contractors
10-10:55
Microtunneling Methods as Alternative & Complement to HDD
As a technology supplier, Herrenknecht provides engineers, developers and drilling companies with the necessary technological solutions to master future projects. Lessons learned and milestone projects will be shared.
Speaker: Jeremy Stenslie, Herrenknecht Systems USA Inc.
TUESDAY, JAN. 27
8-8:25
AI-Powered Rapid Manhole Inspection: Combining 360º Scanning with Large Language Models
Learn how to automate manhole inspections using simple, low-cost 360° scanning equipment with AI-powered analysis, eliminating manual assessment time and heavy equipment requirements when delivering reports.
Speakers: Jinwu Xiao, Wei Liao, Tom Iseley, P.E. Ph.D., Purdue University
8:30-8:55
Evaluation & Deployment of Innovative Free Swimming Condition Assessment Device
Learn about pros and cons of different means to insert/retrieve inspection devices in live pipe. Understand force main assessment strategies, and what sensors and technology are needed to detect defects.
Speakers: Mike Higgins, HDR; Helen Newman, Portland Water District; Myron Shenkyrik, Insight Water Technologies
9-9:25
Transforming Sewer Asset Management with AI: Case Study
This case study highlights our AI-powered smart virtual assistant tool, illustrating how it helps utilities transition to proactive sewer asset management, as demonstrated through its use in the City of Stillwater.
Speakers: Hossein Khaleghian, Ph.D., InfraTie Solutions LLC; Yongwei Shan, Oklahoma State University
9:30-9:55
Why Indiana State Legislature Authorized a State-Wide Water Asset Management Center
The presentation will describe the results of research conducted by the presenter’s students indicating that at least 41 states are developing programs that incentivize or require AMPs.
Speaker: Tom Iseley, P.E., Ph.D., Purdue University
10-10:25
From Full Replacement to Targeted Rehab: How Acquaint’s Tech Transformed a Force Main Plant
Learn how Acquaint’s ultrasonic tech helped a U.S. city shift from full force main replacement to targeted rehab—saving millions. Gain insights into the inspection approach revealing wall thickness, joint condition and more
Speaker: Edzer Kooistra, Acquaint
10:30-10:55
Pinpointing the Problem: Mansfield’s Phase 2 Approach to Targeted I/I Reduction
Learn how the City of Mansfield used data to validate prior I/I rehab efforts, guide next steps, and better align resources, creating a model for proactive asset management through targeted flow monitoring and micro-metering.
Speaker: Alec Propst and Nicholas McCormick, P.E., Freese and Nichols Inc.
11-11:25
Lessons Learned through the Switz City, IN, AMP
Financial planning is not just a final step, but a continuous part of the AMP process. It helps communities make informed decisions about maintenance, capital investment, and long-term sustainability.
Speakers: Wei Liao, Purdue University; Adam Hershberger, AIRW
11:30-12
Pump Station Pipeline Inspections Using Rope Access
This presentation showcases an innovative, real-world solution to a common, yet complex, infrastructure challenge — safely and effectively inspecting pump station piping in confined, hazardous environments.
Speaker: Kevin Weeks, PICA Corp.
8-8:25
Close Tolerance Pipe Slurrification: Proven Solutions for Asbestos Cement Pipe Rehab in Sunrise, FL
A thorough understanding of the CTPS process and how it compares to open-cut and other trenchless AC pipe methods. Also, insight into the regulatory limitations of lessons learned tie-ins, production rates and reduced costs.
Speakers: Brian Goad, Insituform Technologies; Andrew Costa, Azuria
8:30-8:55
EasyDig Trench Cages: Innovative, Compact Excavation Safety
EasyDig trench cages are lightweight, modular, hand-movable aluminum systems designed to ensure strength and prevent soil collapse in hard-to-access places.
Speaker: Wayne Isaac, EasyTech Infrastructure Group
9-9:25
Preserving Mid-Century Water Infrastructure: CFRP Upgrade of 1949 Cast Iron Pipe Beneath Road Culvert
Planning, design-build strategy, CFRP design, upgrade scope, and QA measures, including field inspections and lab testing, of CFRP materials will be presented.
Speaker: Mike Larsen, Structural Technologies
9:30-9:55
Locating Buried Pipeline & Utility Lines in Navigable Waterways: Challenges, Solutions
Learn about a new solution that accurately maps buried pipelines and utility lines onshore and offshore via case histories in navigable waterways.
Speaker: Jeff Wilkinson, SonDance Solutions
8-8:25
Crossing the Corpus Christi Ship Channel
In a major expansion of the Port of Corpus Christi, a utility relocation involved installing a 24” waterline beneath the ship channel, extending through a sensitive wetland area known. Learn about the technical and logistical challenges encountered, how they were overcome and why a Gyro guidance system was selected over other technologies.
Speaker/s: TBA
8:30-8:55
Introducing the National Drilling Mud Disposal Database
Identifying an ongoing problem for HDD contractors nationwide, Tulsa Rig Iron created and launched an online database of drilling mud disposal locations. Learn more details on this free tool for the HDD industry and how to effectively use it in bidding, as well as when crews are in the field looking for disposal locations.
Speaker: Shawn Lowman, Tulsa Rig Iron
9-9:55
Requiring Basic Qualifications for HDD Jobs
DESCRIPTION: to come
Speaker/s: TBA
10-10:55
Managing Soaring Insurance
DESCRIPTION: to come
Speaker/s: tba
11-11:25
HDD Pilot Design Basics from a Driller’s Perspective
This presentation is for anyone involved in the planning, design, or execution of HDD projects who wants to bridge the gap between concept and field reality. It will explore real-world examples that illustrate both successful and problematic designs, highlighting lessons learned on projects ranging from small utility crossings to major infrastructure installations.
Speaker: (speaker TBA) HardRock Infrastructure
11:30-12
Alaska Project
DESCRIPTION: to come
Speaker: TBA
Center Stage (Exhibit Hall)
1-2:30
HDD Hall of Fame
DESCRIPTION:
Panelists:
2:30-3:30
Safety
DESCRIPTION
Panelists: Dennis Pivin, NASSCO;