The 2025 Design‑Build Conference & Expo at the MGM Grand brings together the nation’s leading design‑build innovators for three packed days of learning, networking and inspiration. It’s not too early to start getting excited, so let this be your guide to everything that makes this year’s event unmissable.
From trailblazing project case studies to a high‑flying keynote, this is your chance to experience design‑build at its boldest November 5–7 in Las Vegas, one of the country’s most dynamic cities.
Pre-Conference Opportunities
This year’s optional pre‑conference events set the stage for the week with two choices available on Tuesday:
- Introduction to P3 for the Design‑Builder: This full‑day course focuses on Public‑Private Partnerships (P3) for the Design‑Builder. It’s designed for both public and private sector design‑build professionals with a slant toward private‑sector practitioners.
- Virtual Design & Construction Leadership Exchange (VDCLEx): A half‑day in-depth look into the role of VDC in design-build. Whether you’re already fluent in VDC techniques or just curious how technology can shift your process, VDCLEx is tailored for you.
Opening Night Reception
Kick off your conference experience Tuesday night with the Opening Night Reception presented by the DBIA Western Pacific Region. This fun, informal celebration is the perfect way to reconnect with colleagues, meet new peers and set the tone for the week.
On Wednesday night, the adventure is in your hands. Take in a show, visit a museum, meet colleagues for dinner or simply take time to charge up for the week. The choice is up to you.
General Sessions
A conference this size deserves bookends that inspire. DBIA 2025 delivers with several can’t-miss mainstage moments.
On Wednesday, Carey Lohrenz, the first female F‑14 Tomcat pilot, launches the conference with the Opening Keynote. Her address blends speed, adaptability and leadership insights from the cockpit with lessons that hit home for design-build teams. Expect to walk away energized with fresh perspectives on collaboration, risk and resilience.
Thursday’s General Session, Progressive Design-Build for Mega Projects: Where Innovation Meets Complexity, will tackle some of the largest and most challenging projects in the country. Moderated by Keith Molenaar, Ph.D., FDBIA, lead researcher from ACEC Research Foundation’s study on alternative delivery, Owners behind major efforts like nuclear facilities, coastal resiliency work and transit expansions will share how PDB is reshaping project culture, supporting collaboration and driving innovation at scale.
The Conference wraps on Friday with futurist Steve Brown delivering the Closing General Session. Known for his ability to make the future feel tangible, Brown will share big‑picture insights on innovation, disruption and the trends shaping our world. Expect forward‑looking ideas that will leave you energized and inspired for what’s ahead in design‑build.
Learning Tracks
Learning is at the heart of the Design-Build Conference & Expo. Five robust learning tracks are designed to meet you where you are and take you further. Sessions cover case studies, Progressive Design-Build, VDC, sector-specific practices and leadership strategies, ensuring the program offers something for every role and interest area. You’ll explore real-world projects like mega-infrastructure and campus facilities, reviews of PDB innovation and panels tackling hot topics like resilience, risk management and technology integration. Expect lessons learned and plenty of takeaways you can put to work right away.
Membership and Networking
As the largest annual gathering of design-build professionals, the Conference & Expo is also the perfect moment to connect with DBIA membership and regions. The Annual Membership Meeting will give you a chance to hear how DBIA’s 2025 achievements have shaped the industry and what’s ahead while engaging with fellow members. The Region Networking/Round-Up offers a lunchtime gathering to build relationships across DBIA’s regions.
Forums
The Owners’ and Practitioners’ Forums provide unique opportunities for candid conversations and insider access you won’t find anywhere else:
- Owners’ Forum: A rare chance for Owners to talk candidly with peers and DBIA leadership about what’s working, what’s not and what’s next. No vendors, no pitches; just the decision makers comparing notes in a closed‑door setting.
- Practitioners’ Forum: An equally exclusive setting for practitioners, where peers can speak openly and share their experiences. Swap strategies and get real‑time insights from those who’ve been in the trenches with you.
Next Generation Programming
Supporting the next generation of design-build leaders is central to DBIA’s mission. Emerging professionals will find dedicated programming designed to build connections and boost careers, along with opportunities to refresh their professional image with free headshots in the Exhibit Hall.
The top three student teams from across the nation will also face off in DBIA’s annual National Design-Build Student Competition, a highlight of the event every year. This head-to-head challenge showcases the next generation of design-build talent and brings future industry leaders into the spotlight.
In addition, the Conference includes sessions targeted specifically to students and young professionals. Highlights include a student panel and roundtable discussion, Design-Build Through the Ages, and a resume-writing session for emerging professionals. Both offer practical insights and advice tailored to the next generation of design-build leaders.
Expo Hall
The Expo Hall is where ideas meet action. With 250+ exhibitors and the VDC & Technology Pavilion, it’s a hub of energy and discovery. From robotics to hands-on demos to tools that can change the way your teams collaborate, you’ll see what’s next in design‑build from the very people making it happen.
Awards Dinner & Ceremony
What better way to celebrate design-build’s success than with an evening dedicated to honoring excellence? The 2025 Design-Build Awards Dinner & Ceremony will recognize the nation’s best projects, welcome this year’s class of DBIA Fellows and present the prestigious Brunelleschi Lifetime Achievement Award. This black tie optional event promises to be a memorable night. Be sure to secure your tickets early so you don’t miss out.
Plan Ahead
Take advantage of group registration discounts to bring your team along.
Book your stay within DBIA’s hotel block for easier logistics and better rates, especially if you qualify for government or UBE discounts. Reserve early. Discounted rates are available through October 10.
When the sessions wrap, you’ll still be in one of the most exciting cities in the world, but what makes this trip different is what you’ll take home: new strategies, new connections and new tools to deliver better projects.
Don’t miss DBIA’s biggest event of the year. Secure your spot now.
