SearchWe’re pleased to announce that our flagship event, the Annual Conference will return to One Great George Street in London’s Westminster on Thursday 19th March 2026.
Chaired by Alex Lee (AGS Chair and Partner at HKA), this full day, CPD event will feature a series of expert speakers from across the geotechnical and geoenvironmental sector, with an overarching theme of challenges in geosciences. Speakers confirmed to date include Sarah Cook (Onyxgeo), Tony Putsman (Xenophon Project Services) and Neda Mokaram (Geolabs).
The conference will also include a panel discussion on the topic, The Future of Geoscience: Inspiring and Sustaining Early Career Professionals which will be chaired by Professor Iain Stewart (Plymouth University). Other panel members confirmed to date include Dr Nick Koor (Koor Associates), Dr Ian Carr (Collyer’s) and Oliver Savill (AtkinsRéalis).
The event will conclude with a networking drinks and canapé reception in the Great Hall.
Further information on the event including full speaker details and presentation synopsis will be announced in due course.
REGISTRATION
AGS Member companies and Affiliate Members are entitled to a limited number of complimentary tickets, as part of their membership subscription. To register for your free place and for full information, download the registration form and return it completed to ags@ags.org.uk before 10am on Tuesday 10th March.
Honorary Members of the AGS may attend the event free of charge on receipt of a completed registration form.
We also have 10x students places available at a reduced rate of £10 per ticket. To secure a ticket at this rate, please email ags@ags.org.uk.
Additional tickets are priced at £135 for AGS Members, and £210 for Non-Members. In order to obtain the AGS Member rate, please add the delegate place to your basket, select ‘proceed to checkout’, enter delegate details and under ‘billing details’, select your company from the AGS member company dropdown list. The rate at the end of the checkout page will then update to the AGS member rate.
Registration strictly closes at 10am on Tuesday 10th March. All tickets are offered on a first come, first served basis. All rates exclude VAT. Refunds cannot be given after the registration deadline has passed.
SPONSORSHIP
We have one sponsorship package remaining which is available with a 35% off discount. Please note that this package includes an exhibition stand which will be located in the Foyer and not in the Great Hall where the catering is served. For full details of the available packages and full benefits please click HERE.
EARLY CAREERS PROFESSIONALS POSTER COMPETITION
The AGS Early Careers Poster Competition is back for a third year, this time with the theme; Top Five Industry Insights.
The winner will receive a £100 Amazon voucher, free entry to the 2026 Annual Conference, plus have their poster printed in AGS Magazine which reaches over 7,600 industry professionals 6 times a year.
Ten runners up will win free entry into the Annual Conference, and all other entrants will receive entry into the Annual Conference at a reduced rate of £10 (plus VAT)*. All posters submitted will be displayed at the Annual Conference.
For full details and T&Cs please click here.
PRESENTATIONS
Unforeseen Ground Conditions and Contracts
Presented by Daniel Johnson, Senior Associate at HFW and Joanne Wilkins, Senior Associate at HFW
Unknown site conditions, and particularly ground risk, are among the most common sources of disputes on construction projects. In this session, we will explore how unforeseen ground conditions are dealt with under construction contracts. Specifically, we will explore the appropriate allocation of risk for ground conditions, discuss the importance of site data and relied upon information, consider the potential claims relating to ground conditions under different contracts, and highlight common challenges faced by parties pursuing or defending such claims.
Assessing and Improving Testing Uncertainty in Geotechnical Laboratories: The PICTS Scheme
What is Different about ‘CDM Differently’?
Presented by Tony Putsman, Director at Xenophon Project Services
The CDM 2015 Regulations instituted some significant changes to the requirements for satisfying legal duties when construction projects are conceived , designed an delivered.
In particular, the focus on what the HSE called ‘ unnecessary bureaucracy’ should have been addressed by an industry that equates paperwork with a commitment to health and safety.
Recent experience , including working with Socotec, has reinforced the view that understanding of the Regulations is still very limited and the paperwork problem is widespread.
This presentation will outline how applying a ‘CDM Differently ‘ approach can help project teams to set a clear strategy for minimising risk and ensuring that the value of adequate site investigation is recognised from the start.
Carbon Calculators in Geoscience: The challenges in balancing innovation, investigation, and cost in sustainable projects
Presented by Sarah Cook, Director at Onyx Geo Consulting
This presentation begins by examining the challenges of integrating new digital tools, such as carbon calculators, into established work practices. It will then explore the application of carbon calculators to quantify and manage the environmental impact of ground investigations. It will demonstrate how carbon accounting supports investigation design, enabling practitioners to balance technical innovation, data quality, and cost efficiency. By linking carbon metrics with investigation planning, logistics, and material use, this session demonstrates how robust early-stage characterisation can reduce uncertainty, minimise embodied carbon, and deliver measurable sustainability gains across the project lifecycle.
The Future of Geoscience: Inspiring and Sustaining Early Career Professionals
Panel discussion Chaired by Dr Iain Stewart (Plymouth University). Guest panelists: Dr Nick Koor (Nick Koor Associates), Dr Ian Carr (The College of Richard Collyer), Jenny Boland (Geological Society) Oliver Savill (AtkinsRéalis) and Hebah Abdel-Hady (Arcadis).
The geoscience sector has long expressed concern over declining student numbers, particularly at higher education level. While some recent research suggests that enrolments may in fact be stabilising, and even rising in some areas, the profession continues to face challenges in attracting and retaining the next generation of talent.
This discussion will bring together voices from across academia, industry, and professional bodies to examine the latest trends in geoscience education and early careers. Discussion will focus on how to sustain and build on recent positive signs, while addressing ongoing barriers such as visibility of the profession, diversity, and competition with adjacent disciplines.
By sharing practical strategies, the panel will explore how the industry can collectively ensure that geoscience remains an attractive, accessible, and thriving career path.
SPONSORS
Soil Engineering
Soil Engineering Geoservices provide market-leading capabilities in drilling and testing related disciplines. From Ground Investigation to Drilling & Grouting, Laboratory Testing to Instrumentation & Monitoring, we support your geotechnical journey every step of the way. Talk to us to see how, as part of the country’s most capable family of geotechnical businesses, we can fulfil your ambitions.
Brimstone UXO
Brimstone UXO reduces the risks of unexploded ordnance through innovation, expertise, and advanced technologies. We support the geological, environmental, construction and defence sectors, with the capabilities to offer a full spectrum of UXO risk mitigation services, from initial risk assessments to final explosive demolitions.
SOCOTEC UK
SOCOTEC UK is a leading provider of testing, inspection, and certification services for the construction, infrastructure, and environmental industries. They offer a wide range of services to help clients manage risk and ensure asset integrity, supporting them throughout the entire lifecycle of their projects.
www.socotec.co.uk/our-services/ground-investigation-services
Eijkelkamp Fraste UK
Eijkelkamp Fraste UK specialises in delivering high-quality drilling equipment and soil investigation solutions. Combining Fraste’s innovative drilling rigs with Eijkelkamp’s expertise in environmental and geotechnical tools. We provide reliable equipment and services for industries such as construction, mining, and environmental monitoring, ensuring precision, efficiency, and sustainability across projects.
Van Walt
Van Walt Ltd, suppliers of equipment and solutions for soil and water research. For over 40 years we have developed our expertise and experience to bring you best-in-class equipment for soil, water and groundwater monitoring. Our team design, source, install, supply, rent and repair equipment for environmental research.
Groundsure
Groundsure provides essential data to gain insights on environmental risks for site assessment and development. Built on decades of Geographic Information System (GIS) and mapping expertise, our unique, unrivalled library includes the largest historical land use data, current and historical mapping and unique datasets. Additionally with Groundsure Explorer, our consultancy and geotechnical clients can integrate site risk data into their project workflow seamlessly and easily. Groundsure Explorer makes it easy to visualise and interpret key information – to make confident, informed decisions.
Normec i2 Analytical
Normec i2 Analytical offers extensive analytical services encompassing Environmental Chemistry, Materials and Geotechnical Testing, Site Services and Air Testing across a wide range industries. Complemented by exceptional customer service, with streamlined in-house logistics, Normec i2 Analytical has a client-centric approach to delivering accurate results and expert guidance for informed decision-making and regulatory compliance.
BAM Ritchies
BAM Ritchies the Ground Engineering Contractor of the Year 2025, delivers SMARter Ground Engineering built on over 60 years’ experience. We’ve have a reputation as the go-to ground engineering team for complex problem solving and best-value, sustainable delivery – with no surprises. We use industry-leading digital construction methods to stage digital rehearsals. So you’ll know exactly what to expect from your project, and we’ll get it right first time. BAM Ritchies are making possible.
www.bamnuttall.co.uk/groundengineering
In Situ Site Investigation
In Situ Site Investigation is a specialist geotechnical and geo-environmental site investigation company carrying out all aspects of Cone Penetration Testing (CPT) techniques as well as all methods of Pressuremeters. Our expanding array of rigs and equipment enable us to work on any site across the UK and worldwide.
AFITEXINOV UK LTD
AFITEXINOV UK LTD is a specialist manufacturer of geosynthetic solutions for over 30 years. Our services are focused on applications such as structural drainage, water barrier linings and soil reinforcement solutions. Our focus industry sectors are in geotechnical applications in public works, environmental projects, residential developments and mining activities.
Dr. Sauer & Partners
Dr. Sauer & Partners – tunnelling technology pioneers who create thoughtful solutions to some of the world’s toughest ground engineering challenges. We build on deep experience and expertise, taking a human and collaborative approach. We design better, bolder solutions that meet the world’s changing needs, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved.
Geosense
Geosense is an award-winning UK manufacturer of instrumentation used in over 100 countries for the design and construction of earth structures, basements, foundations, and linear infrastructure.
Our extensive range of sensors, including MEMS inclinometers, vibrating wire piezometers, and data acquisition systems provide reliable, accurate real-time data with major projects including HS2, Melbourne Metro, Australia, Grand Paris, France and 6th Street Bridge LA, USA.
Equipe Group
Equipe are the UK’s leading provider of geotechnical training, innovations, assessments and events. Specialising in creating innovative solutions for the geotechnical market such as KeyLogbook and RhinoCorebox, Equipe offers specialist health & safety courses alongside in-depth technical training such as soil & rock description logging and geotechnical foundation design.
Landmark Information Group
Realise the untapped potential of geodata and location insight with single point access to the biggest, most comprehensive and accurate datasets across property, land and environment in the UK. From mapping and environmental reports to consultancy services, we have the tools, capabilities and expertise to help you make more informed decisions faster.
HUESKER
HUESKER is a market leader in the manufacture of geosynthetics. Its products and services provide solutions for earthworks and foundations, roads and pavements, environmental and hydraulic engineering. We pride ourselves on constantly innovating to create more sustainable solutions and reduce the risks associated with ground engineering.
SoilSafe
As developer and researcher of the novel and sustainable Advanced Continuous Surface Wave (ACSW) shear wave velocity profiling system, SoilSafe holds specialist knowledge valuable for the development of ground engineering practice and are committed to developing sustainable solutions in line with UK net zero targets.
SPEAKERS
While our speakers are experts in their fields, they are not professional presenters by trade. As a result, they may not always exhibit the speaking confidence of professional presenters, and their slides might not be as refined.
PHOTOGRAPHY
By registering for this event, you acknowledge and agree that photography and videography may take place during the conference. Images and footage may be used by the organisers for promotional, marketing, and editorial purposes, including on websites, social media, and printed materials.
If you prefer not to be photographed or recorded, please inform a member of the event team upon arrival at the conference.
Speakers
Partner at HKA and AGS Chair
Dr Alexander Lee has over 25 years of experience in ground risk and remediation and specialises as an expert witness. He is a Chartered Geologist and Scientist. He is a regular chair and presenter at both domestic and international conferences and is the outgoing chair of the National Brownfield Forum. He sits on the NQMS Steering Group, was a former Chair of the Society of Brownfield Risk Assessors, and is an Accredited Risk Assessor.
Assistant Director of the Science and Maths Faculty, Head of Subject for Geology and Environmental Science at The College of Richard Collyer
Dr Ian Carr is the A-level Geology teacher at Collyer’s in Horsham. His international fieldwork experience, gained from the Middle East, Arctic and North Africa, has inspired a generation of geologists. He has worked in the geotechnical industry and published post-graduate sedimentological research from three British Universities.
Geotechnical Project Manager (Advanced and Research Laboratory) at Geolabs
Director at Xenophon Project Services
Tony Putsman BSc. ( Hons), MICE, C.Eng., ICE Health & Safety Register (Advanced) is a chartered civil engineer and qualified trainer/coach. Tony developed a keen interest in the ‘people’ aspect of Construction whilst working for major contractors including Taylor Woodrow, Kier International and Jarvis Construction.
He set up his own risk management consultancy (XPS) in 2002 and has worked with clients in all sectors of the Industry as well as leading professional institutions including the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Institution of Civil Engineers.
Director at Onyx Geo Consulting
Sarah Cook is a Director and Technical Lead for Sustainability at Onyx Geo Consulting with over 20 years experience in the environmental sector. She is a Chartered Geologist and qualified in Environmental Law and Practice, focusing on the sustainable remediation of brownfield sites. Sarah is in the AGS Sustainability Working Group and is currently developing a series of carbon calculator tools for site investigation and assist clients in sustainable development design.
Director of Membership & Development and The Geological Society
Jenny leads membership and professional development strategy at the Geological Society, working across the geoscience community to strengthen engagement, inclusion and professional growth. She works with colleagues on the Society’s This is Geoscience campaign, highlighting the vital role and future of geoscience in society.
Senior Geo-environmental Consultant at Arcadis
Hebah specialises in contaminated land risk assessment with over 9 years experience in a variety of public and private sectors. Currently, Hebah conducts Detailed Quantitative Risk Assessments, including the assessment of sites under Part 2A. In addition to her core role, Hebah leads a team of Consultants in Scotland and sits on the CL:AIRE Technology and Research Group as an Early Career Person. In 2023 Hebah was awarded Best Early Career Brownfield Professional at the Brownfield Awards, sponsored by AGS.
Technical Director at EPG
Steve is a Chartered Civil Engineer with 40 years experience of geotechnical engineering and surface water drainage design. He is one of the authors of the SuDS Manual and is a member of the team that is developing the Manual into the Rainwater Management Platform. He has extensive worldwide experience and the use of alternative infiltration and permeability tests to BRE365.
Geotechnical Engineer at AtkinsRéalis
Oliver is a Chartered Geotechnical Engineer at AtkinsRéalis with 5 years’ industry experience following graduation with a Civil and Environmental Engineering masters from the University of Exeter. Oliver has worked in geotechnical design, geohazard identification and remediation, asset management, and remote sensing, and has been actively involved in supporting academia through STEM events, university lectures, and facilitating PhD research.
Director at Ruddlesden Geotechnical
Simon is a Chartered Geologist who for the last 20+ years has been the director of Ruddlesden geotechnical, a small ground investigation and geotechnical consultancy, based in Exeter, Devon. He has carried out more soakaway tests than he would like to admit.
Senior Associate at HFW
Daniel is a qualified lawyer and Senior Associate in HFW’s Construction Team, specialising in construction disputes and avoidance. He has worked on infrastructure, oil and gas, offshore wind and other heavy engineering projects. He often works on cases involving complex technical issues and has extensive experience of advising contractors, sub-contractors, consultants, employers and insurers on a wide range of projects, both in the UK and internationally.
Senior Associate at HWF
Joanne is a qualified lawyer and Senior Associate in HFW’s Construction team. Joanne has advised on large infrastructure and engineering disputes both in the UK and internationally. She has particular experience in offshore construction, energy from waste and renewables. She advises contractors, employers and subcontractors on large scale projects across a variety of sectors including infrastructure, hydro-electric, oil & gas and offshore construction.
Director and Owner of Koor Associates
Nick is an expert in Geological Engineering, with over 40 years’ experience. He has worked as a consultant and as an academic in university education and applied research. Nick works as a technical expert and is currently Visiting Associate Professor at the University of Portsmouth. Nick is Past-Chair of University Geoscience UK and a founding member of the UK Geoscience Strategic Alliance.
LEAD SPONSOR:
Price: £210.00
AGS Member: £135.00 all prices exclude VAT
Price: £210.00
AGS Member: £135.00 all prices exclude VAT