Bentley’s Year in Infrastructure and Going Digital Awards: Where AI, Digital Twins and Open Data Shape the Future

Infrastructure leaders from around the world recently gathered in Vancouver for Bentley System's Year in Infrastructure and the Going Digital Awards. The two-day event, often called the Oscars of Infrastructure, drew more than 300 professionals to the Canadian city, while more than 1,000 joined online. The focus this year: How AI, digital twins and open data ecosystems are transforming infrastructure.

Bentley CEO Nicholas Cumins opened the event on Oct. 8 with a vision for the future: "Together, we're laying the groundwork for a future where open data ecosystems and AI seamlessly work together to create more sustainable and resilient infrastructure for better quality of life, for generations to come." (Did you miss the event? Check out thehighlights video.)

The 20th annual event featuredBentley's iLab, a stunning immersive experience powered by geospatial and digital twin technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI. Attendees lined up to step inside the exhibit and interact with infrastructure's future. "The technology we're seeing here is absolutely amazing for cities," said Jamie Cudden, smart city program manager with the Dublin City Council in Ireland. "It's a game changer. You can layer 3D data, engage citizens, and I'm so excited to use it in Dublin."

Bentley also made big announcements during the event, including a strategicpartnership with Google, the launch of the generative AI-powered toolOpenSite+and newcarbon analysis capabilitiesto help reduce emissions. "AI allows us to do more with less," said Joe Viscuso, senior vice president and director of strategic growth at Pennoni, the U.S. engineering consulting firm. "It improves the accuracy of our projects and the methods we use for delivery."

As always, the event wrapped up with theGoing Digital Awards, which celebrate the most innovative infrastructure projects and showcase how users of Bentley software continue to push the boundaries of what's possible.

We were in Vancouver and captured the best moments. Take a look at our video.