Remo Grandori – Muir Wood Lecturer

TBMs at the Forefront: Challenges, Innovations, and Logistics in Large-Scale Underground Construction. First results from a large number of machines driving the future of tunnelling in complex geotechnical contexts.

Graduated in 1984 in Mechanical Engineering with a thesis on TBM & rock cutting mechanism, Mr. Grandori has since then, for the last 41 years, worked in TBM tunnelling as nel Contractor and TBM Manufacturer with SELI, accruing experience in over 120 TBM projects and more then 1.200 km of tunnels in the most different formations in all 5 continents. 

Along his career he acted as consultant for TBM design and operation for several public clients and general contractors, and cooperated with all major TBM manufacturers (Robbins, Lovat, Wirth, Mitsubishi, Kawasaki, NFM, Boretec, Terratec, NFM, Herrenknecht, CREG, CRCHI) in developing new technologies and TBM types. 

Since 2020 is Director of the Plant & Equipment and TBM Department at Webuild group, with 60 TBMs contemporary in operation by the end of 2026. In this role, he is responsible for the development and follow-up of over 60 TBMs operating worldwide, from Australia to the USA and Europe. In Italy, he is supporting Webuild in the construction of over 300 km of tunnels excavated using mechanized machines, with 40 TBMs working simultaneously. 

Larry Beasley – Keynote Speaker

Mr. Beasley’s visionary approach and global experience have influenced the shaping of cities around the world. His keynote address will offer valuable insights into the future of urban development and the innovative ideas driving vibrant, resilient communities. This is an exceptional opportunity to hear from a renowned expert whose work continues to inspire planners, policymakers, engineers, and city builders alike.

Dr. Karina Lange – Keynote Speaker

Dr. Karina Lange has a PhD in Geoenvironmental Engineering and is currently the scientific secretary for the IAEA’s Underground Research Facilities Network. Prior to joining the IAEA, Dr. Lange was a senior licensing officer and inspector at the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. As a radioactive waste disposal specialist at the IAEA, a major focus of her work is sharing technical expertise with countries at the initial stages of a radioactive waste disposal program. She supports this work by coordinating scientific visits to existing sites in host countries, various training activities and workshops. She is an active supporter of diversity in the nuclear workforce.

She will be presenting on the partnership between the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association (ITA), under which the IAEA holds observer status within ITA to support the Geological Disposal Facility (GDF) community. This collaboration formalizes several years of constructive engagement and provides a structured, apolitical platform that connects scientific programmes with underground engineering expertise to strengthen GDF development worldwide.

Eric Péloquin – Keynote Speaker

Eric Péloquin is a civil engineer graduated from Polytechnique Montréal with a master’s degree in soil mechanics. He has over 30 years of experience in dam safety, design, construction, and geotechnical engineering in Canada and internationally.

Since joining Hydro-Québec in 2007, he has played a key role in major hydroelectric projects, including the Romaine Complex and large reservoir developments in James Bay.

He currently serves as Chief Dam Safety, leading the surveillance and diagnosis of Hydro-Québec’s portfolio of more than 700 dams and 140 spillways. Eric is also a past President of the Canadian Dam Association and remains actively involved in international dam safety committees and technical training initiatives.

Ramy Nassar – Keynote Speaker

Futurist, author, and former Head of Innovation at Mattel, Ramy Nassar helps leaders navigate AI and emerging technology with confidence. His presentations cut through the hype with bold foresight and practical tools—leaving audiences energized, inspired, and ready to Navigate What’s Next—accelerating innovation, reimagining strategy, and shaping the future before it disrupts them.

As the former Head of Innovation, he helped reimagine one of the world’s most iconic brands, including contributing to the production team for the Barbie movie. With 25+ years of experience and trusted by over 250 leading organizations including Apple, TD Bank, TELUS, Verizon, New Balance, and the Government of Canada, he combines hands-on technical depth, strategic foresight, and powerful storytelling to turn complexity into clarity and disruption into opportunity.

Author of the AI Product Design Handbook and a faculty member at universities in Canada and Europe, Ramy Nassar equips leaders with practical frameworks to reimagine business models, rewire risk, and accelerate innovation.