Building Innovation and Driving Change at Chicago Build Expo 2025
Chicago Build Expo 2025 is shaping up to be more than just another trade show. With its sweeping agenda and commitment to diversity, innovation, and sustainability, it has cemented its reputation as the Midwest’s largest and most influential construction event.
This year, the expo is once again set to break records, attracting over 30,000 attendees, 350 exhibitors, and more than 400 speakers, all under one roof at McCormick Place, Hall D2, on 29-30 October 2025.
Diversity and Inclusion at the Forefront
Among the standout features of the expo are its efforts to drive change in diversity and equality across the built environment. The dedicated Women in Construction Networking Event is returning as the Midwest’s largest of its kind, taking place on Thursday, 30 October from 3:00pm to 4:15pm. Hosted in partnership with Professional Women in Construction (PWC), it offers women across the industry the chance to connect, share stories, and inspire the next generation of leaders.
Another highlight is the Diversity in Construction Networking Event, scheduled for Wednesday, 29 October from 3:00pm to 4:15pm. Co-hosted by Chicagoland AGC and the National Association of Black Women in Construction, the event will shine a light on the achievements of BAME, LGBT+, and female professionals in the AEC sector. Through powerful panel discussions, industry leaders will address both progress made and challenges still to overcome in building a more inclusive future.
Jaime Zwierzynski, Director of Business Development at McHugh Construction, shared her perspective: “As a woman in construction, my mission is to lead by example, challenge stereotypes and build a more inclusive and equitable industry. I believe that diversity in construction is not only vital for innovation and problem-solving but also for creating stronger, more resilient teams that reflect the communities we serve. I am committed to continually learning and uplifting others, especially the amazing women coming up behind me.”
Championing Sustainability
Sustainability takes centre stage at Chicago Build Expo with a series of events designed to showcase green practices in the AEC industry. The Sustainability Leaders Networking Event on Wednesday, 29 October from 11:15am to 12:15pm will gather thought leaders pushing the boundaries of environmentally responsible construction.
Blake Jackson, Director of Sustainability at NORR, underscored the importance of change: “Comfort with change is core to working within Sustainability. I enjoy being an agent for positive, measurable change across the AEC industry – both in practice and in Corporate Social Responsibility – so that all business activities can be aligned towards improving environmental stewardship and the lives of all affected by our projects.”
The focus on sustainability aligns with broader industry trends. According to the U.S. Green Building Council, demand for LEED-certified buildings continues to grow, with sustainable construction forecast to account for nearly half of all new commercial projects in the next five years. Chicago Build Expo aims to give contractors, developers, and policymakers the tools and knowledge they need to meet these ambitious goals.
Digital Construction Innovation
No modern construction show would be complete without a deep dive into technology. The Digital Construction Innovators Networking Event, scheduled for Wednesday, 29 October from 1:45pm to 2:45pm, will highlight how Building Information Modelling (BIM), digital twins, and automation are revolutionising project delivery.
Civil engineer Wister Jose Márquez of UPCT Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena explained: “Driving change in the Midwest’s AEC industry means accelerating the adoption of BIM and digital workflows to improve construction efficiency, reduce errors, and foster smarter collaboration. Promoting these innovations helps deliver better, more sustainable infrastructure for the region.”
With the digital construction market projected to exceed USD 25 billion globally by 2030, events like this are vital for helping professionals stay competitive and adapt to rapid technological shifts.
Real Estate and Facilities Management Connections
The expo also caters to the real estate and facilities management communities with its annual mixer. Co-hosted by IFMA, the Real Estate & Facilities Management Networking Event is set for Thursday, 30 October from 11:15am to 12:15pm. This session offers a vital platform for property professionals to explore partnerships, discuss challenges, and align strategies for smarter asset management across the Midwest.
Ambassadors Driving Progress
At the heart of Chicago Build Expo is its Ambassador Programme, a network of industry leaders who embody progress in motion. Ambassadors play a pivotal role in advancing initiatives on diversity, digital innovation, and sustainability.
Alexa Glade DeTogne, Principal Designer at Lexa Glade Design, emphasised the value of inclusion: “Diversity in architecture and design is essential when we are tasked with meeting our clients where they are and where they need to be. Honouring the diversity of our clients’ narratives always produces the best result – There is no ‘cookie-cutter’ human and so the environments we build should mindfully reflect that.”
This community-led initiative invites professionals of all genders and backgrounds to join and help shape the future of the region’s built environment. By becoming ambassadors, participants gain the opportunity to influence policy, mentor peers, and accelerate the industry’s transformation.
Beyond the Conference Halls
Chicago Build Expo isn’t just about panel discussions and workshops. The show delivers a festival-like atmosphere with live music, DJs, food and drink tastings, and interactive entertainment designed to foster informal connections between attendees. For many, this blend of professional networking and social experience is what makes the event stand out in the crowded calendar of AEC conferences.
With over 13 conference tracks covering topics from infrastructure to green building and digital workflows, the expo ensures that every professional finds something relevant to their field. Whether attendees are contractors, architects, engineers, or policymakers, the event promises valuable takeaways.
Standing at the Forefront of Change
Chicago Build Expo 2025 is not just another date in the industry diary – it is a call to action. By putting diversity, sustainability, and digital transformation at its core, the event encourages professionals to embrace progress and build a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient Midwest.
As Blake Jackson aptly put it: “All business activities can and should align with improving the environment and people’s lives.” That ethos is what Chicago Build Expo seeks to amplify, making it a vital meeting point for those ready to drive change.
