State Convention

Events & Activities Schedule

Professional Development Session, 10 AM

Major Construction Technology Trends: Drones, AI (Artificial Intelligence), and Cyber Security.
presented by Matt Abeles, VP Construction Technology and Innovation, ABC National

This session explores how cutting-edge technologies are reshaping the construction industry, with a focus on three major trends:

1. Drones in Construction
   Drones are increasingly used for site surveying, monitoring progress, inspecting hard-to-reach areas, and improving safety. They offer real-time data collection, 3D mapping, and visual documentation, which enhances project efficiency and reduces risk. DJI drones also may not be around much longer, and things you should consider if you are currently using this hardware?
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
   AI is transforming project planning, risk management, and predictive maintenance. Through data analysis, AI helps forecast delays, optimize scheduling, and manage labor and resources. AI-powered tools also contribute to safer working conditions by identifying potential hazards before they occur. Learn about the new AI tools helping contractors be safer, more profitable, and helping them win more work.
3. Cyber Security
   Construction is the second largest industry being hacked in the US. As construction becomes more digital, cyber threats grow. The session highlights the need for robust cybersecurity strategies to protect sensitive project data, design plans, and connected systems. It emphasizes employee training, secure networks, and threat monitoring as critical measures.

The session underscores the importance of integrating these technologies strategically to increase productivity, reduce costs, and ensure security across all phases of construction.

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Professional Development Session, 1:00 PM

Rigid Inclusions, Composite Deep Foundation Elements, and Other Ideas: Value Engineering Solutions to Many General Contractor Headaches and Common Scheduling/Budget Problems
presented by Timothy Wayne Mays, Ph. D., P.E., Director of Engineering Research, Fuller Pile, LLC

Building, bridge, and even ancillary structures are often designed to transfer both vertical and lateral loads to the supporting soil through deep foundation elements. Rigid inclusions provide an economical means whereby deep foundation elements can be eliminated and shallow foundations can be used exclusively to support all code required loads. In other cases, special constraints or load conditions provide the opportunity to use composite deep foundation elements to carry these loads. An overview of rigid inclusions and composite deep foundation elements is discussed in this presentation.

This presentation uses lessons learned from actual projects to present practical ways that rigid inclusions and composite deep foundation elements can be incorporated early or late into a design build project. As expected, early consideration results in more savings in terms of schedule and overall foundation cost. An overview of relevant code requirements for these elements is presented and the roles of the owner/engineer/contractor are also discussed in detail. Other practical value engineering opportunities are also discussed using case studies.

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ABC of Florida State Convention Group Room Rates

There are limited beach front rooms and suites available. Group rate is available three days pre/post, based on group availability. Group rates are available for registered convention attendees only.

Resort Fee
There is a daily discounted resort fee of $20 (normally $40) which includes:

high speed WiFi
two bottles of water in room,
bicycle rentals
one-hour beach kayak or paddleboard rental
beach towels and luxury chaise lounges
range balls and use of driving range at Naples Grande Golf Club
24-hour access to the fitness club
weekly fitness classes
newspaper in the lobby
10% discount on tennis court fees and weekly resort activities

Parking Discounts for ABC Members
Self-parking discounted to $10 per car, per day. Valet parking is $20 per car, per day. Event parking is $10 daily for attendees not staying overnight.

Extra Concessions
Naples Grande Resort is offering ABC members 10% discount on fully priced a la carte spa services at the Naples Grande Spa.

Room Reservation Deadline

ABC of Florida has reserved a limited number of rooms at a discounted group rate, which is available while supplies last. The deadline for the group rate is June  17, 2025.  After this date, there is no guarantee that rooms or the group rate will be available.

To Reserve Your Room use the Room Link above or call 239-597-3232 or 1-844-489-9663.

 The resort requires a one night’s room and tax deposit with each individual reservation. Individuals canceling less than seven days prior to the scheduled arrival date will forfeit their deposit.