Building & Construction Events in Gent

IABSE Congress

IABSE Congress Ghent: Exploring the Role of Structural Engineering in Building a Better Society

As the world navigates the complexities of urbanization, climate change, and evolving infrastructure needs, the IABSE Congress in Ghent, Belgium takes center stage with a timely and impactful theme: “The Essence of Structural Engineering for Society.” This prestigious global event, hosted by the International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE), brings together professionals, academics, and innovators to explore how structural engineering can—and must—rise to meet the pressing demands of our time.

Held in the historic city of Ghent, the Congress promises a stimulating environment where engineering excellence meets social responsibility. More than just a technical conference, it is a platform for collaboration, inspiration, and progress, emphasizing the human and environmental impacts of structural decisions.

The Purpose Behind the Theme: Engineering for a Greater Good

The chosen theme, “The Essence of Structural Engineering for Society,” captures the evolving expectations placed on structural engineers in the 21st century. No longer confined to calculations and blueprints alone, today’s engineers are active agents of sustainable development, safety, and innovation.

The Congress will address key questions such as:

   How can structural engineering solutions improve quality of life?

   What responsibilities do engineers hold in mitigating climate risks?

   How can global collaboration lead to more resilient infrastructure?

   What ethical considerations should guide the structural engineering profession?

These discussions are more relevant than ever, as the built environment intersects with social equity, environmental stewardship, and economic development across the globe.

A Global Forum for Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration

The IABSE Congress in Ghent is more than a meeting—it's a convergence of thought leaders from across continents and disciplines. Participants from academia, industry, and government sectors will come together to share breakthroughs, case studies, and best practices that reflect the future of structural engineering.

Congress features include:

   Plenary sessions with globally recognized keynote speakers

   Technical parallel sessions exploring a wide range of subtopics

   Workshops and panels on innovation, sustainability, and resilience

   Poster sessions highlighting emerging research

   Exhibition booths showcasing new technologies and services

With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, the Congress aims to bridge gaps between design, research, policy, and real-world application.

Key Focus Areas at IABSE Congress Ghent

To promote meaningful and actionable dialogue, the Congress covers an extensive range of topics that reflect the evolving scope of structural engineering. These sessions are curated to appeal to both seasoned experts and emerging professionals.

Topics include:

   Sustainability in Structural Design

       Life cycle assessments

       Low-carbon materials

       Circular economy applications in construction

   Resilience and Disaster Preparedness

       Seismic design innovations

       Flood-resistant structures

       Structural safety in extreme environments

   Smart Infrastructure and Digital Tools

       BIM integration in structural systems

       IoT-enabled monitoring

       AI applications in structural diagnostics

   Heritage Structures and Adaptive Reuse

       Restoration of historic bridges and buildings

       Integrating modern functions into old infrastructure

   Structural Engineering and Society

       Socially inclusive design principles

       Public safety and accessibility

       Ethical practice in engineering

By focusing on both technical rigor and societal impact, the IABSE Congress redefines what it means to be a structural engineer in today’s world.

Why Attend: The Value for Every Engineering Professional

Whether you're a senior engineer, university researcher, city planner, or student, the IABSE Congress in Ghent offers immense value.

Benefits of attending:

   Stay ahead of global engineering trends and research

   Build professional networks with international experts

   Earn continuing education credits or certifications

   Share your own research or case studies with a high-impact audience

   Explore the latest materials, methods, and tools in structural design

   Engage in critical dialogue on how engineering can meet global societal needs

By participating, you not only enrich your own expertise—you also contribute to shaping the profession’s role in building a better future.

A Unique Setting: Ghent as the Host City

The selection of Ghent as the host city adds cultural richness and symbolic depth to the event. A city that blends medieval architecture with modern infrastructure, Ghent mirrors the theme of the Congress—preserving the past while building for the future.

The venue will offer state-of-the-art conference facilities, with convenient access to accommodations, public transit, and historic landmarks. Attendees will have opportunities to:

   Participate in technical tours of local infrastructure projects

   Visit architectural heritage sites

   Experience Belgian hospitality, cuisine, and history

This inspiring setting fosters both professional focus and cultural immersion, enhancing the overall experience.

Engage, Present, and Influence: Your Role in the Congress

In the spirit of global exchange and peer learning, the IABSE Congress welcomes contributions from professionals at all career stages. Engineers, architects, urban planners, and researchers are invited to submit papers, lead workshops, or moderate panels.

Submission categories include:

   Original research papers

   Case study presentations

   Conceptual proposals

   Educational initiatives

   Technical innovations in design or materials

Accepted presenters will have the opportunity to publish their work in the official proceedings, gain international recognition, and build lasting professional connections.

Engineering That Serves People and the Planet

The IABSE Congress in Ghent is not just about engineering—it’s about engineering with purpose. At a time when infrastructure decisions impact everything from climate resilience to urban equity, this event empowers professionals to lead with intention, ethics, and innovation.

By exploring the theme “The Essence of Structural Engineering for Society,” the Congress invites all participants to reflect on their role not only as engineers, but as stewards of global well-being.

If you believe in the power of engineering to transform society, mark your calendar for the IABSE Congress in Ghent—and be part of shaping the structural world of tomorrow.

POLYCLOSE

The Polyclose trade fair, held in Ghent, Belgium, stands as a premier event in Europe, specializing in door and window construction, facade design, access control, and sun protection technology. As the largest fair of its kind in the Benelux countries, Polyclose provides a comprehensive overview of movable elements such as gates and fences, showcasing the latest trends and innovations across these sectors. Since its launch in 1991, the fair has taken place biennially every January, drawing numerous exhibitors and professional visitors eager to explore advancements in their fields.

Organized by LIMACO NV, a well-respected entity in the trade fair industry, Polyclose covers an extensive range of topics. These include aluminum and plastic processing, architecture, automation, and cutting-edge window and door technologies. The event also highlights significant developments in the glass sector, construction techniques, carpentry, security solutions, and sun protection systems, while placing particular emphasis on ventilation technologies.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Polyclose is its commitment to presenting products and services that reflect current developments and innovations within these industries. The fair serves as a unique platform for exhibitors and visitors to engage with the latest technologies, fostering an environment where business relationships can flourish. Participants have the opportunity to exchange information about prevailing industry trends, gaining insights that can inform their own practices and strategies.

As professionals navigate an ever-evolving market landscape, Polyclose not only facilitates learning and exploration but also nurtures collaboration. It is a space where industry leaders, innovators, and practitioners can come together to discuss challenges, share solutions, and ultimately drive the future of construction and design forward. The event's focus on innovation and technology underscores its importance as a key player in shaping the landscape of the construction sector in Europe.

TRANSPORT & LOGISTIEK GHENT

In the bustling heart of Belgium's transport and logistics industry, something extraordinary unfolds every fall – the Transport & Logistics trade fair. For two dynamic days, this event transcends mere networking, offering an immersive experience where industry professionals converge to explore, innovate, and cultivate invaluable connections.

Hosted alternately at the esteemed Antwerp Expo and Flanders Expo in Ghent, the Transport & Logistics trade fair stands as a beacon of innovation and collaboration. Organized by the seasoned experts at EasyFairs, this event transcends traditional trade shows, offering a synergistic platform dedicated solely to the transport and logistics realm.

What sets this fair apart is not only its prestigious venue but also its concurrent alignment with other specialized expos. This strategic coupling amplifies the opportunities for visitors, providing access to a broader spectrum of exhibitors and topics. 

With over 250 exhibitors and more than 4,000 visitors, the fair boasts a vibrant atmosphere pulsating with the latest industry trends, breakthrough solutions, and transformative insights. From pioneering technologies to cutting-edge services, exhibitors from diverse sectors showcase their innovations, setting the stage for dynamic collaborations and business ventures.

Central to the fair's allure are the insightful conferences and workshops led by over 50 distinguished speakers and experts. These sessions delve into critical industry topics, offering attendees a deeper understanding of emerging trends, best practices, and future challenges.

The fair's location serves as a strategic nexus, situated in Belgium's premier transport hubs – Antwerp and Ghent. Renowned for their historical significance and robust infrastructure, these cities provide an ideal backdrop for fostering meaningful connections and driving industry advancements.

Beyond its professional endeavors, the Transport & Logistics trade fair encapsulates the essence of Belgian culture, offering attendees a glimpse into the rich tapestry of history and heritage that permeates these vibrant cities.

In essence, the Transport & Logistics trade fair epitomizes more than just an event; it's a transformative experience that empowers industry stakeholders to chart a course towards innovation and collaboration. As the industry continues to evolve, this annual rendezvous remains an indispensable catalyst for driving progress and shaping the future of transport and logistics.

EMPACK GHENT

Join us on September 17th and 18th at EMPACK Gent, the must-attend event for packaging professionals.

The increasing demand for sustainable packaging goes hand in hand with the rise in paper and cardboard consumption. With PEFC certification, brands and retailers meet current regulations and the growing expectations of consumers and markets regarding forest protection and product origin. Choosing a PEFC-certified product not only supports forest conservation but also positions the brand or retailer as a responsible business entity.

At EMPACK Gent, attendees will discover the latest innovations and solutions in packaging, including advancements in sustainable materials and practices. The event provides a pivotal platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and exploring new opportunities in the packaging industry.

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with industry leaders, learn about sustainable packaging trends, and take proactive steps towards environmental responsibility and market leadership. Join us at EMPACK Gent to shape the future of packaging together.