NAT | UCA North American Tunneling Conference 2026
Event Date
June 15–18, 2026
Location
Anaheim, CA
Expected Exhibitors
174
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe UCA North American Tunneling Conference (NAT) is a leading B2B event for the tunneling and underground construction industry. Organized by the Underground Construction Association (UCA), a division of SME, it is described as the premier biennial tunneling event for North America, bringing together contractors, engineers, suppliers and project owners. NAT 2026 takes place June 15-18, 2026 in Anaheim, California.
The conference is built around detailed case histories of North American projects, covering everything from tunnel boring machines (TBMs) to rehabilitation, while also framing broader discussions about the future of global tunneling. Attendees range from newcomers to seasoned professionals across the underground construction field.
NAT delivers a full professional experience combining technical education, an industry-specific exhibit hall, and extensive networking. With a program of technical sessions, short courses, and sponsored networking events, luncheons and receptions, the conference is positioned to advance both individual careers and the industry as a whole. It is a valuable stop for anyone seeking the latest products, project insights, and connections in tunneling and underground construction.
Show Highlights
- Industry-specific exhibit hall with roughly 200 booths showcasing the latest tunneling products and services.
- 20 technical sessions covering the full spectrum of tunneling and underground construction, from TBMs to rehabilitation, presented through detailed North American project case histories.
- Short courses (9 offered) that can be added to conference registration for deeper, career-focused learning.
- Specialty speakers and a robust technical program.
- Networking functions including a Tuesday night Exhibit Hall Reception, an Exhibit Hall lunch, a Wednesday night Exhibit Hall Reception, and UCA Young Members activities.
- Awards recognizing industry achievement and scholarship opportunities.
Attendance
According to the conference, NAT 2026 is expected to draw over 1,200 attendees, 174 exhibitors, and features 20 technical sessions. NAT is described as attracting professionals from around the world, including contractors, engineers, suppliers and project owners in the tunneling and underground construction industry.
Registration
Registration is completed online through UCA/SME, and includes access to all technical sessions, conference proceedings, the Tuesday and Wednesday night Exhibit Hall Receptions, the Exhibit Hall lunch on Wednesday, and daily coffee breaks.
Registration tiers and deadlines:
- Early Bird (form and full payment by April 30, 2026): Member $905; Nonmember $1,175 (includes UCA membership through 12/31/2026); Nonmember Author $905; Student Member $115; Student Nonmember $135; Spouse/Companion $145; Additional Exhibit Booth Staff $275; Exhibitor Member $905; Exhibitor Nonmember $1,175.
- Regular (May 1 - June 10, 2026): Member $1,025; Nonmember $1,295; Nonmember Author $1,025; Student Member $115; Student Nonmember $135; Spouse/Companion $165; Additional Exhibit Booth Staff $375; Exhibitor Member $1,025; Exhibitor Nonmember $1,295.
- Onsite (beginning June 11, 2026): Member $1,135; Nonmember $1,405; Nonmember Author $1,135; Spouse/Companion $185; Additional Exhibit Booth Staff $475.
A Government Rate of $905 is available to attendees with a valid.gov email address. Short courses can be added to any registration. International attendees who need a letter of invitation can request one through the conference website.
History
The North American Tunneling Conference is presented as the premier biennial tunneling event for North America, organized by the Underground Construction Association (UCA), a division of SME. It brings together leading professionals in tunneling and underground construction to share advances, projects and lessons learned across North America and beyond. For 2026, the conference adopted a new Monday-Thursday date pattern, running June 15-18, 2026 in Anaheim, California.
Exhibitors
Exhibitor Information
Detailed exhibitor list is being compiled. Check back soon or visit the official show website for the most current information.
Venue & Travel
Venue
Anaheim Marriott
700 West Convention Way
All NAT 2026 events take place at the Anaheim Marriott, a 4-star hotel in the heart of Anaheim's Resort District, within walking distance of the Anaheim Convention Center, House of Blues, and Anaheim GardenWalk. The property offers 169,000 square feet of flexible event space, including two ballrooms, along with an outdoor pool, a fully equipped fitness center, and on-site dining featuring California cuisine. Guest rooms and suites feature plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and hardwood floors.
Parking
The Anaheim Marriott offers on-site self-parking and valet parking for a daily fee (rates are set by the hotel and subject to change). Attendees should confirm current parking rates directly with the hotel when booking.
Getting There
The Anaheim Marriott is located in Anaheim's Resort District next to the Anaheim Convention Center, roughly a 15-minute walk from Disneyland. The closest major airport is John Wayne Airport (SNA) in nearby Santa Ana, with Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Long Beach Airport (LGB) also serving the region. Rideshare, taxis, and area shuttles are widely available; attendees driving in can use the hotel's on-site parking. For detailed local transit options, the conference points travelers to the Visit Anaheim getting-here guide.
Nearby Hotels
The Anaheim Marriott is the official conference hotel, with a negotiated group rate of $289.00 single/double per night plus taxes and fees; reservations must be made by May 7, 2026 and are subject to availability. Because the venue sits next to the Anaheim Convention Center, several other hotels are within a short walk, including:
- Hilton Anaheim (777 W Convention Way) - adjacent, a few minutes' walk.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Anaheim - near the Convention Center.
- Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Resort/Convention Center (2045 S Harbor Blvd) - short walk.
- Hyatt Place at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center (2035 S Harbor Blvd) - short walk.
- DoubleTree by Hilton Guest Suites Anaheim Resort/Convention Center - nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is NAT 2026 taking place?
The UCA North American Tunneling Conference (NAT 2026) takes place June 15-18, 2026, following a Monday-Thursday schedule. All events are held at the Anaheim Marriott in Anaheim, California.
Who should attend the North American Tunneling Conference?
NAT is designed for contractors, engineers, suppliers and project owners in the tunneling and underground construction industry. It is valuable for professionals at every experience level, from newcomers to seasoned experts.
How do I register and what does it cost?
Registration is completed online through UCA/SME. Early Bird rates (through April 30, 2026) start at $905 for members and $1,175 for nonmembers, with regular rates from May 1 to June 10 and higher onsite rates beginning June 11; discounted student and government rates are also available.
What is included in conference registration?
Registration includes access to all technical sessions, conference proceedings, the Tuesday and Wednesday night Exhibit Hall Receptions, the Wednesday Exhibit Hall lunch, and daily coffee breaks. Short courses can be added for an additional fee.
Where should I stay and how do I book a hotel?
The Anaheim Marriott is the official conference hotel and the venue for all events, with a negotiated group rate of $289 single/double per night plus taxes and fees. Reservations must be made by May 7, 2026 and are based on availability.
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