Four high-level panel discussions will explore the issues defining construction in the West Midlands. Each panel features five senior contributors from across industry, local government, academia and delivery partners.

1. Building Social Value: Construction as a Community Catalyst

How do we move social value from compliance to competitive advantage? This panel examines how projects can create local jobs, apprenticeships and long-term economic resilience, and how contractors, SMEs, councils and colleges can collaborate effectively.

2. Building the West Midlands: Where Are the Opportunities for the Next Generation?

The West Midlands is one of the most exciting regions in the UK for construction and development. This panel brings together contractors, investors and local authorities to explore the major projects, programmes and investments shaping the region over the next decade — and what that means for young people looking to build a career in construction.

3. Bridging the Skills Gap: Building a Future-Ready Workforce

This discussion focuses on apprenticeship pathways, employer-college collaboration, diversity in construction and long-term talent development strategies.

4. How Technology, Net Zero and Innovation Will Transform Construction by 2035
Focus:

The construction industry is entering a period of rapid transformation driven by digital technology, decarbonisation targets and new delivery models. This panel will explore how innovation will reshape the way we design, build and operate the built environment over the next decade.