Autodesk University 2024: Top Sessions for Subcontractors

We are weeks away from Autodesk University, and we couldn’t be more excited! Happening in San Diego October 15-17, AU 2024 is a must-attend for any AEC professional. 

From inspiring and informative keynote sessions to networking opportunities you won’t find anywhere else, you’re bound to elevate your expertise and forge invaluable connections at AU 2024.  

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Why subcontractors should register for AU 2024

If you’re a subcontractor who wants to stay competitive (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), attending AU 2024 should be at the top of your list. 

At Autodesk, we know you’re facing a host of challenges. Industry data shows that in 2023, a third of subcontractors saw a decline in profits, and most subs (87%) are paying out of pocket before getting paid themselves. 

AU 2024 is packed with sessions and resources for navigating these challenges. You’ll learn how to use technology to improve quality and productivity while unlocking cost savings in your projects. 

Take a look at our top session picks below. 

CS3744 | Empowering Subcontractor Decision Making: A Guide to Streamlining Workflows and Lowering Costs with Autodesk Construction Cloud

Imagine having to secure more contracts and provide superior service for all clients. Where would you begin? This was the task handed to the team at Jones Engineering Fire Protection, and it’s been their focus for the past two years. They have initiated a bold digital strategy aimed at evolving their business, and they’ve identified five key areas that could be innovated through digital transformation. During this class, discover how Autodesk Construction Cloud has been a game changer in merging disparate workflows and data into a unified platform. Our expert presenter will recount the bumps hit along this road and the victories achieved, highlighting the gains in design team productivity and enhanced teamwork among engineers and on-site teams, and how they’re influencing upstream workflows to general contractors. This results in a win-win-win situation: a win for Jones, a win for the general contractor, and a win for the client. Don't miss this opportunity to peek into a leading subcontractor’s digital makeover and pick up insights to mirror in your business.


CS1784 | Overcoming the Project Diversity Dilemma: AI-Powered Solutions for Optimizing Diverse Subcontractor Sourcing

In this session, we'll explore the profound impact that diversifying trade partner relationships has had on the construction industry and how using AI streamlines subcontractor sourcing, enhances compliance efforts, and fosters innovation. Join us to discover how embracing diversity drives down costs, increases competition, and cultivates a more robust and resilient construction landscape. We’ll showcase the transformative power of inclusion in propelling the industry forward.


CS2440 | Salute to Service: Why Veterans Are a Perfect Fit for Every Industry

With U.S Air Force veteran Michelle Rasmussen as the co-host, join us for an emotional and inspiring panel discussion on the enthralling journey of being a veteran. This session will bring together a group of three to five panelists from different branches of the military, each with a compelling story of overcoming adversity and how they transitioned into their industry. Our panelists will share their experiences of overcoming specific challenges in their fields. This could include challenges related to reintegrating into civilian life, transitioning military skills to new contexts, working with civilians, accessing mental health resources, or facing discrimination. The adversities they've faced have equipped them with unique problem-solving skills and a remarkable ability to adapt, which makes them invaluable contributors who can drive innovation and positive change in any industry.


CS2344 | Managing Construction Billing and Payments Globally

Despite a reported 91% medium or high level of improvement in productivity, only 27% of general contractors have moved to automate their payment application process through technology. This indicates a growing need towards adopting software automation tools to replace manual processes. With this shift in mind, it is essential for GCs to understand what to look for in subcontractor management software. This session explores the critical features, their benefits, and the overall advantages of integrating technology into subcontractor management along with sharing how these solutions actually work in conjunction with your construction accounting system.


CS3769 | TradeTapp: How Webcor Increased Prequalification Rates to 90% Pre-award

Contractors with subcontractor default insurance programs face ever increasing risk from varying sectors: COVID-19 recovery, recessionary concerns, and rising costs of supply and labor. Ensuring that projects are awarded to the right subcontractor is paramount to deterring potential defaults. The combination of BuildingConnected and TradeTapp has led to a 90% prequalification rate in advance of award. By working bid packages with operations, risk management can detect potential problems and mitigate in pre-award.


We can’t wait to see you at AU 2024

As a subcontractor, the best thing you can do to gear up for 2025 is to equip yourself and your team with the right knowledge, tools, and industry connections. Autodesk University has all of these and more.

Don’t miss your chance to attend one of construction’s most anticipated events. Register for AU 2024 today!

Jenny Ragan

As Managing Editor - Content Marketing, Jenny oversees the execution of content strategies and implementation across the Digital Builder blog, podcast, and video channels. She has been working in the marketing side of the AEC industry for the past 15+ years and is the cornerstone of content marketing channel production, owning core editorial calendars and working with internal collaborators and external vendors and contractors to keep all deliverables moving forward.