AFBELive 2026 Programme
The Future of Engineering: From Access to Equity
What to Expect
AFBELive 2026 will feature panels, workshops, case studies, keynote addresses,
exhibitions, speed networking, interactive sessions, and incisive and insightful roundtables designed not just to inform, but to inspire action and collaboration.
The conference will be structured to offer tailored experiences based on attendees’ interests, with events and segments targeted towards students and early career professionals, alongside keynotes, roundtables, and fireside chats intended for seasoned professionals and corporate organisations. Whether you’re beginning your engineering journey or leading strategic change in your organisation, there’s something valuable for you.
The event will also provide attendees the opportunity to learn about the various programmes and initiatives that AFBE run, from Making Engineering Hot, Transition, Mentoring, and Transcend to AFBE Real Project talks. Discover how you can get involved and benefit from these impactful programmes that support engineers at every stage of their career.
Future Leaders Forum
After its successful 2024 debut, this interactive platform returns to empower students and early career professionals with practical skills, authentic insights, and the confidence to lead change. Through storytelling, real time audience engagement, and open dialogue with employers and early career professionals, participants will gain authentic career insight, practical pathways for progressing in engineering, and a sense of community and empowerment.
The Next Big Idea Competition
Witness bold, human centred innovations addressing AI in engineering, sustainability, equity in the built environment, company culture, and income inequality. This Dragon’s Den style showcase celebrates fresh thinking that drives meaningful change, with students and professionals pitching solutions aligned with our conference themes.
Evening Cocktail Reception
After a full day of inspiring conversations and meaningful engagement, join over 400 attendees for our cocktail reception. This is your opportunity to unwind, forge new connections, and celebrate the progress we’re making together toward a more equitable engineering future.
Enjoy complimentary drinks and refreshments as you connect with industry leaders,
engineering professionals, students, government representatives, and diversity champions in a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking to expand your professional network, explore partnership
opportunities, or simply reflect on the day’s learnings with likeminded professionals, the reception provides the space and atmosphere to make it happen.
Conference Themes
1. A Pipeline that Delivers Change
Building pathways that turn access into lasting equity
Examining how education, mentorship, and talent development must evolve to create genuine opportunity, not just entry points, but career progression grounded in belonging and support.
2. Trends and Opportunities in Engineering
Spotlighting the innovations reshaping engineering and expanding access to real opportunities
Exploring emerging fields, technological shifts, and industry developments that are redefining what’s possible and who gets to be part of it.
3. Sustainability
Sustainability as a pathway to equity, building resilient, equitable futures
Connecting environmental responsibility with social justice, and recognising that a sustainable future must also be a fair one.
4. Inclusive Supply Chains
Fair, transparent routes into procurement and partnerships
Unpacking how procurement decisions can drive equity, create opportunities for
underrepresented businesses, and reshape industry ecosystems.
Detailed programme with session times and speakers to be announced.
Stay connected: Follow us on social media and check back regularly for programme updates, speaker announcements, and registration information.