Recapping CUIIC’s Innovations in Underground Infrastructure
Nestled within the University of Alberta in Edmonton, the Canadian Underground Infrastructure Innovation Centre (CUIIC) is at the forefront of advancing underground infrastructure technology in Canada.
Established with a mission to tackle the challenges and harness the opportunities in this critical field, CUIIC has united nearly 80 member organizations. This impressive roster includes utilities, municipalities, contractors, consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, and non-profit agencies, all working together to foster innovation across sectors such as water, stormwater, wastewater, telecommunications, power, energy, and transportation infrastructure.
CUIIC’s Educational Milestones and Initiatives
The heart of CUIIC’s success lies in its vibrant and collaborative community, which has fueled substantial growth in both research and educational endeavors. CUIIC Academy, an Accredited CEU Provider through the Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC), is a testament to this. In partnership with Benjamin Media Inc. (publisher of Trenchless Technology Canada), the Academy has hosted 25 live webinars, drawing more than 4,000 attendees. These sessions, free to the public, feature expert speakers on a broad range of topics, and recorded versions are available on CUIIC’s YouTube channel for continued learning.
Events Drive Knowledge and Networking
Beyond webinars, CUIIC Academy has organized six educational events across Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. These events have brought together 40 experts from industry and academia and attracted more than 500 attendees. Supported by more than 20 sponsoring companies, these events have also awarded 15 student scholarships, highlighting CUIIC’s commitment to nurturing a diverse professional community.
Notable recent events include the Geotechnical Risks and Considerations for Underground Construction Workshop at the University of Alberta in May and the CUIIC Advanced HDD School in Calgary in April. Both events, well-received for their valuable insights and networking opportunities, are set to return in spring 2025. The Safety Academy— held in 2023 and focusing on underground construction safety, regulations, challenges and innovations — is set to return to Edmonton in fall 2025.
The second annual Pipeline Rehabilitation Academy, held on March 13-14, at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, was a highlight of the year. This two-day course offered unparalleled learning opportunities focused on asset management, condition assessment, maintenance, and rehabilitation of underground pipelines. Attendees earned CEUs from the Engineering Institute of Canada while networking with experts and discovering the latest advancements and technologies. This event will return to Mississauga, Ontario, March 5-6, 2025.
Research Projects and Future Initiatives
CUIIC’s commitment to innovation is further exemplified by their recent award of a Natural Science and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Alliance Grant for the project titled “Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction in Design, Construction, Repair, and Maintenance of Underground Infrastructure.” Supported by NSERC and 21 industry partners, including Benjamin Media Inc., this project has secured $3 million in funding and in-kind contributions. The five-year research project will provide training opportunities for ten graduate and undergraduate students, offering hands-on experience and interaction with industry professionals.
Charting the Path Forward
The underground infrastructure industry faces significant challenges, from aging infrastructure and labor shortages to climate change unpredictability. However, CUIIC’s efforts to foster collaboration and innovation are already producing strong, positive results. With a continued focus on research, education, and innovation, CUIIC is well-positioned to help the sector address future challenges.
Find CUIIC at No-Dig North 2024, where they will be exhibiting from Oct. 28-30, 2024, at the Niagara Falls Convention Centre in Booth #521. This event is an excellent opportunity to explore how CUIIC continues to support stakeholders across the underground infrastructure industry through unparalleled research and training opportunities.
To learn more about CUIIC and how to get involved, visit cuiic.ca.
