The conference and exhibition will be held from 29 March to 3 April at the Sheraton Centre in Toronto, Canada. The event combines an extensive technical program, exhibition hall and networking and social activities for the nearly 2,000 trenchless professionals expected to attend from around the world.

The event attracts decision-makers from utilities, engineers, contractors, manufacturers and suppliers, who are there to do business in the one forum that is dedicated to exclusively promoting Trenchless Technology.

Program Chair Joe Loiacono said “Together we will explore the new methods and techniques available that will help you save money and improve infrastructure in your cities, towns and municipalities using trenchless methods.”

Delegates will have the opportunity to choose between a five track technical component, which runs from Monday 30 March to Wednesday 1 April. Over 140 technical papers will be presented by trenchless experts from North America, Brazil, Denmark, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Poland, South Africa, the United Kingdom, India, Peru and Taiwan.

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The technical papers cover all aspects of the industry including machinery, rehabilitation, inspection, asset management, leak detection, the environment and sustainability. The conference will cover all utilities that benefit from trenchless solutions including electrical, gas, telecommunications, sewer/wastewater and water.

The 50,000 square foot exhibit area will showcase a wide range of trenchless vendors – from manufacturers of microtunnelling and pipe bursting equipment to suppliers of coatings and linings materials.

In addition to the informative presentations and exhibition hall, Mr Loiacono said that the Program Committee has worked diligently to offer an educational yet fun program with plenty of opportunities for networking, industry awards and recognition and entertaining events.

Networking, industry awards and entertainment

Both the ISTT and NASTT events are renowned for their strong social programs, and Toronto 2009 is no different.

Arrive a day early to enjoy the majesty of Niagara Falls. Alternatively, delegates can attend an introduction to Trenchless Technology short course covering new construction techniques and rehabilitation methods. There are also a range of post-conference seminars to improve your trenchless knowledge.

The conference will kick off with the Monday morning breakfast featuring entertainment and delicious food. Special events will be the presentation of Trenchless Technology Person of the Year and the comedic stylings of Glen Foster.

The NASTT 8th Annual Educational Fund Auction will be held in the evening, promising fundraising in a friendly environment.

The Gala Awards Dinner will be held Tuesday evening. The dinner provides an opportunity to socialise with industry personnel in a relaxed atmosphere. The winners of the 2008 Trenchless Technology Projects of the Year in rehabilitation and new installations will be recognised in a special awards ceremony, as well as the ISTT Gold Medal. The ISTT Gold Medal is awarded to individuals for outstanding and exceptional contributions in the field of Trenchless Technology. The Society will recognise a truly deserving individual at the Gala Dinner. This is only the fifth time in the 23 year history of the Society that the ISTT has presented the Gold Medal.