The 9th International Scientific and Practical Conference “Information Modeling in Construction and Architecture” (БИMAK–2026) was held at St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering (St. Petersburg, Russia).
The conference was held as part of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between D. Serikbayev ЕKTU and St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering on April 26, 2023. The conference was attended by Alexander Vladimirovich Khapin, the head of the «BIM Technologies in Design» Research and Production Center, and Bekbolat Espulovich Makhiev, a senior researcher at the same Сenter.
The conference brought together representatives from the professional community, the education sector and the business world to discuss the key areas of digital transformation in the construction industry.
The sections titled «Artificial Intelligence in Construction and Architecture», «Digital Restoration of Cultural Heritage Sites» and «Transport Section» took place as part of the conference.
The conference demonstrated that digital technologies are reaching new heights, enabling the creation of highly accurate models of construction and architectural projects; however, their effective application requires a systematic approach. It involves the integration of digital technologies into professional training, facility design, and construction methods, and encompasses all stages of the construction product life cycle.
St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering has gained valuable experience in career guidance for high school students by establishing digital classrooms in schools. Senior undergraduates and master’s students are recruited to serve as instructors in these schools. Graduates of digital classrooms receive preferential treatment when applying to university.
Professional development courses on the application of artificial intelligence in construction and architecture were organized during the conference. Representatives from design firms in St. Petersburg spoke about their experience with AI.
Participation in academic and professional conferences held at St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering allows for the timely study of the regulatory framework governing BIM design and the development of digital educational technologies.
