North American Tunneling Conference (NAT) 2026

About the event

The North American Tunneling Conference (NAT) 2026 is one of the leading events dedicated to tunnelling and underground infrastructure in North America. The conference will take place from June 15 to June 18, 2026, in Anaheim, California, bringing together engineers, contractors, project owners, suppliers, and researchers from around the world. The event is organized by the Underground Construction Association (UCA) of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration and serves as a key platform for knowledge exchange within the tunnelling industry.

The conference focuses on the planning, design, and construction of underground infrastructure used in transportation systems, utilities, and urban development. Participants attend the event to learn about the latest technological innovations, engineering solutions, and best practices related to tunnelling projects. Topics commonly discussed include tunnel boring technologies, ground engineering, underground construction methods, safety management, and infrastructure resilience.

A major component of NAT 2026 is the technical conference program, which includes numerous presentations, case studies, and panel discussions led by industry experts and researchers. These sessions provide insights into large infrastructure projects, new engineering techniques, and emerging technologies used in underground construction. In addition to the conference sessions, the event also features a large exhibition where companies showcase equipment, machinery, materials, and digital solutions used in modern tunnelling projects.

NAT 2026 also offers valuable networking opportunities for professionals across the tunnelling and infrastructure sectors. By bringing together stakeholders from engineering firms, construction companies, and technology providers, the conference supports collaboration and innovation that contribute to the development of safer and more efficient underground infrastructure projects worldwide.