With the construction industry remaining one of the largest global markets, it is imperative that the advanced materials sector listens to the industry and observes what is needed to increase usage within the sector. Advanced Materials & Innovation has addressed this requirement and is pleased to announce the programme for its upcoming conference and exhibition ‘Advanced Materials for Construction featuring FRP for Infrastructure’ (AMCONF). The event, which will be held at the University of Manchester on 3rd-4th April 2019, incorporates a keynote address from the Rail Director of Transport for the North, Tim Wood, who is looking for innovators and collaborators to work with him on the ambitious investment plans for a transformed rail network at the heart of the new Northern Powerhouse Rail System. Speaking about the conference, Tim Wood encourages companies to attend; “Through innovation and collaboration, we will assess and remove barriers to create the conditions for accelerated growth. Collaboration with many delegates at the Advanced Materials for Construction conference for example will be essential to achieving this, combining expert knowledge and counsel to achieve the best results for businesses and the public.” The conference will address all aspects of the industry including what we as an industry can do to help the construction industry meet its targets. A special session is being presented by Gianluca Barletta & Paul Homan of IBM Services titled, ‘Digital Construction-What Does the Future Bring?’ AMI Director, Martin Halpin, said, “It is a very exciting time for Advanced Materials for Construction, with a number of large infrastructure clients realising the benefits that these materials can offer their projects. We are delighted to bring together senior figures from client organisations to describe the significant opportunities that exist moving forward, alongside other industry professionals who will demonstrate best practice in procurement and implementation of recent and relevant projects. This is a must-attend conference for all those interested in challenging traditional solutions with innovative alternatives.” Sue Halliwell, Operations Manager, Composites UK, said, “The potential for the use of advanced materials in construction applications is huge. As yet we’ve only scratched the surface in achieving their potential benefit to the sector. There’s a significant education piece to be done to ensure the construction industry has access to the right information they need to make informed decisions when it comes to choices of materials for specific projects. This conference is part of that piece and brings together materials experts and construction professionals so they can better understand the challenges and possible solutions.” Exhibitors and Sponsors will also be involved with Pecha-Kucha Sessions that provide the opportunity of further engagement with the audience by presenting comprehensive and visually stimulating summaries of their offering. Exhibition space is still available on a first come, first served basis, from basic space to bespoke 1-3m pods which create an impact with delegates and start those all-important conversations that lead to the best collaborations and future projects. AMI Director, Gemma Smith, said, “We are very proud to have a programme that not only represents material suppliers, but also end users, contractors and specifiers. We have taken the time to speak to people across the supply chain to ensure that we provide a thought-provoking conference programme designed to push existing boundaries, question our methods and progress the usage of advanced materials in the construction industry.” The overriding aim of AMCONF is to provide delegates with the information and contacts they need on the best possible opportunities and outcomes for the Advanced Materials industry. The complete programme can be viewed at https://www.amconf.com/programme.