Geo Week Panel to explore BIM, digital twins and robotics in AEC
Focusing on the practical aspects of integrating cutting-edge technology into AEC workflows, a Geo Week panel is set to address building information modelling (BIM), digital twins and robotics implementation.
Over the last decade, the perception that the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry is resistant to technology has been increasingly disproven. The reality is that the sector is now brimming with innovative solutions across both hardware and software, with firms of all sizes recognizing the value of these advancements. Technologies like reality capture, BIM and digitization have become essential. However, many companies are still in the early stages of adoption. The leap from ideation to implementation presents challenges, making it crucial to learn from industry leaders who have navigated this process.
This is where events like Geo Week prove invaluable. The conference, taking place from 10-12 February in Denver, Colorado, USA, features numerous sessions designed to help professionals tackle these challenges. One such session, 'Bridging the Gaps: Challenges in BIM, Digital Twins, and Autonomy,' will be held on Wednesday at 2:00 PM local time. The panel will include four expert presentations exploring the practical applications, benefits and obstacles involved in transitioning digital methodologies from theory to real-world use.
BIM and related tools
The session begins with David Lestani, principal solution architect at COSOL, who will focus on BIM. While BIM has long been a staple in construction technology, its transition from design and construction phases into asset operations and maintenance remains a challenge. Lestani will address the barriers preventing this extension, as well as the potential benefits for maintenance planners, reliability engineers and technicians when BIM is integrated beyond construction.
Next, Karina Delcourt, strategic initiatives manager at ETRO Construction, will explore commonly used industry terms – BIM, digital twins, and virtual design and construction (VDC). While these tools each bring unique value, they are often conflated, creating confusion about their distinct roles. Delcourt will clarify their definitions, explain how each can enhance a firm’s operations, and provide insights on leveraging their combined potential.
Robotic monitoring and digital twin implementation
Eric Bergholz, CEO of Laserscanning Europe, will then shift the discussion towards robotics. His presentation will highlight robotic monitoring of construction sites using Lidar scanners, drawing from a collaborative research project in this area. He will detail the complexities of this approach and compare results with IFC models to identify workflow efficiencies and challenges.
The session concludes with George Perrett, operational excellence director at Peri, who will present real-world examples of digital twin implementation in industrial construction projects, particularly within the oil and gas sector. While the case studies focus on a specific industry, the insights gained can be applied broadly across AEC, helping professionals bridge the gap between digital plans and real-world execution.
Hearing directly from professionals who have encountered and overcome similar challenges is one of the greatest benefits of attending Geo Week. As the AEC industry undergoes significant technological transformation, sessions like these offer practical guidance and invaluable networking opportunities.
For those interested in this session or others from Geo Week’s programme, registration for this year’s event can be completed using this link.

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