Innovation, Construction, and Integrated Collaboration
Welcome to the 2026 IConIC Conference. This year, we gather at the University of Florida, nestled in the heart of North Central Florida—a region defined by its natural beauty, academic excellence, and cutting-edge technological advancement.
The Venue: The Bruno E. and Maritza F. Ramos Collaboratory
The conference is proud to be hosted at the Ramos Collaboratory, the newest crown jewel of the UF College of Design, Construction and Planning (DCP). This facility stands at the nexus of disciplines that define how modern societies live, move, and thrive.
Key Features of the Venue
- Creative Collisions Commons: A reconfigurable, multi-functional space designed for spontaneous networking and formal collaboration.
- Research Hub: The central home for all DCP research centers, where faculty and students exchange high-impact ideas to solve societal challenges.
- Digital Modeling & Fabrication Space: A state-of-the-art facility for 3D printing, geospatial modeling, and simulation.
- Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Lab: A specialized lab where attendees can witness the mastery of building information modeling (BIM) and computational design.
- Large Multipurpose Hall: Our primary lecture site, designed to accommodate the nation’s preeminent voices in design and planning.
Spotlight: The Smart IDC Lab
Industrialized Design & Construction – A National First
IConIC attendees are invited to tour the Smart IDC Lab, featuring the first-in-the-nation robotic station dedicated to industrialized construction.
The Innovation: The lab showcases the Patented Flexible, Multifunctional Prefabrication End-Effector (US2023061826). Traditionally, industrial robots were hindered by “single-use” limitations—one robot for nailing, another for moving.
Why it Matters
- Efficiency: Streamlines the fabrication of diverse construction components using a single robotic arm.
- Economic Impact: As the construction market reaches an estimated $196 billion in 2026, this technology reduces the high costs of interchangeable tools.
- Precision: Delivers the speed and accuracy of industrial automation to the complex world of framing and assembly.
Exploring Gainesville: The City of Trees & Innovation
Gainesville offers a unique blend of “Old Florida” charm and a high-tech “Innovation Hub” atmosphere.
- Museum Road & Cultural Plaza: Visit the Florida Museum of Natural History (home to the Butterfly Rainforest) and the Harn Museum of Art, both located on the UF campus.
- Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park: Just south of the city, you can see wild horses and bison roaming a massive Florida savannah.
- Depot Park: A beautifully repurposed industrial area featuring walking trails, a promenade, and local eateries.
- The Springs: Within a 45-minute drive, enjoy the crystal-clear, 72°F (22°C) waters of Ginnie Springs or Ichetucknee Springs.
Beyond Gainesville: The Florida Experience
If you are extending your stay, Gainesville is centrally located, making it easy to reach Florida’s world-class attractions:
Orlando (1.5 Hours South)
- Walt Disney World Resort: Explore the four theme parks, including the futuristic visions of EPCOT and the immersive lands of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
- Universal Orlando Resort: Home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the highly anticipated new developments of 2026.
Tampa & The Gulf Coast (2 Hours Southwest)
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: A unique blend of world-class roller coasters and a massive zoological park.
- The Tampa Riverwalk: Explore the vibrant downtown waterfront, the Florida Aquarium, and the historic Latin Quarter of Ybor City.
- St. Pete Beach: Consistently ranked among the top beaches in the United States, perfect for a post-conference wind-down.