Professional development took center stage during the PDCA 2026 Annual Conference as attendees immersed themselves in two days of educational programming designed to strengthen technical knowledge, leadership skills, and industry awareness.

The learning began with an inspiring keynote on leadership from Jason Hewlett following welcome remarks from PDCA President Chris Normand. From there, the focus shifted to today's most important technical topics, including steel pile corrosion caused by resistivity, shoring safety, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in deep foundations.

The conference's elective sessions allowed attendees to customize their educational experience, choosing from presentations on remote pile testing, load testing methods for ductile iron piles, legal risk management through an engaging courtroom reenactment, and research comparing the performance of uniform and tapered piles.

Educational programming concluded Thursday with updates on PDCA's commissioned vibration study, an economic outlook for ports amid changing trade conditions, and recommendations for driven pile setup and capacity assurance. Together, the presentations reinforced PDCA's commitment to delivering practical, relevant education that professionals can apply immediately in the field and the office.

Keynote Speaker Jason Hewlett presents:

'The Promise'

General Session Programs

Breakout Sessions