United Contractors Announces 2026 Public Works Summit in California

United Contractors Announces 2026 Public Works Summit Connecting Agencies and Contractors

SAN RAMON, Calif. — United Contractors (UCON) has announced its 2026 Public Works Summit, a one-day event aimed at bringing together California’s contractors, public works agencies and industry leaders to strengthen collaboration and advance infrastructure development across the state.

Scheduled for May 28 at the Hilton Anaheim, the annual summit is expected to draw key stakeholders involved in planning, funding and delivering public works projects. Now in its fifth year, the event has positioned itself as a central forum for fostering relationships and sharing insights that drive California’s construction sector forward.

The summit will provide attendees with direct, face-to-face access to major public agencies, including Caltrans, Los Angeles World Airports, LA Metro, the Metropolitan Water District, the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach. Organizers say this level of engagement allows contractors to better understand upcoming project opportunities and align their strategies with agency priorities.

Industry Leaders and Agencies to Convene

UCON said the summit is designed to create a direct line of communication between contractors and the agencies responsible for delivering critical infrastructure projects across California. Participants will have opportunities to network, discuss upcoming bids and gain a clearer understanding of the state’s infrastructure pipeline.

The event also aims to strengthen relationships within the contractor community, offering a platform for collaboration among firms operating in the public works sector.

“The Public Works Summit puts California's contractors face-to-face with the agencies shaping the state's infrastructure future. There is no faster path to the relationships, insights, and opportunities that grow your business,” said Emily Cohen, CEO of United Contractors.

Economic Outlook and Workforce Insights Highlight Agenda

A key highlight of the 2026 summit will be a presentation by economist Mark Schniepp, Ph.D., of California Forecast. His session, titled “The Future of California’s Economy: What is Driving California’s Economy Today,” will explore the factors influencing the state’s infrastructure economy, including the growing role of artificial intelligence in shaping the construction workforce.

Organizers say the presentation will provide attendees with actionable insights to navigate changing market conditions and plan for future growth.

Attendees can expect to:

• Engage directly with public works agencies
• Connect with contractors across the industry
• Learn about upcoming infrastructure opportunities
• Gain insight from a leading economic expert

The summit has earned a reputation as a must-attend event for contractors working in California’s public sector. Industry professionals say the event consistently delivers valuable knowledge and connections.

“I have attended the UCON Public Works Summit for the last four years, and I learn different things every time I go,” said Dave Sorem, partner at Mike Bubalo Construction Company. “Public Works is an important part of the Southern California construction market, and all contractors can benefit from the information gained there. I would greatly recommend that all members plan to attend the 2026 Summit.”

Founded in 1970, United Contractors represents more than 800 union-signatory heavy civil contractors and affiliate members across California. Its members collectively employ over 40,000 workers and are involved in building key infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water systems, utilities and public facilities.

The 2026 Public Works Summit reflects UCON’s ongoing mission to connect contractors with public agencies, support workforce development and drive long-term infrastructure investment across the state.

Originally reported by UNITED CONTRACTORS in Construction Dive.