Maximizing Your Lab Design Conference Experience

The 24th annual Lab Design Conference, held in Denver, Colorado, from May 11–14, 2025, is a must-attend event for professionals in laboratory design.

With 30+ educational sessions, 60+ industry-leading speakers, and opportunities to earn AIA continuing education credits, the conference offers a wealth of knowledge on sustainable design, resilience, retrofitting, and more.

Attendees can also explore the exhibitor hall, network with experts, and participate in exclusive lab tours showcasing cutting-edge facilities in the Denver area.

Make the most of this event with these key strategies:

Develop a plan

Map out your conference experience by identifying the exhibitors and speakers you want to connect with, ensuring that your time is spent engaging with individuals and companies that align with your professional objectives. The Lab Design Conference agenda features a diverse range of topics, including sustainable design, resilience, retrofitting, industry trends, case studies, and the future of lab design, among others. Additionally, the attendees and speakers represent a wide range of experts from all facets of lab design—architects, lab planners, lab end users, and furniture, equipment, and service providers—giving you the chance to network with professionals from across the entire design ecosystem. This diversity ensures that you’ll have a well-rounded conference experience, gaining insights from all perspectives.

Create an elevator pitch

Prepare a concise introduction that highlights your role, interests, and objectives. A clear and engaging pitch can set the tone for productive conversations. This intimate conference setting offers abundant opportunities to build meaningful connections and network in a relaxed, casual atmosphere.

Sharpen your active listening skills

Focus on listening during interactions to make the most of this intimate conference setting. The relaxed atmosphere of the Lab Design Conference creates an ideal environment to connect with others on a personal level, allowing you to truly engage in conversations and build relationships with experts from across all of the lab design functions. This approach not only uncovers opportunities for collaboration but also fosters a deeper understanding and mutual respect that can enhance future professional relationships.

Leverage social media

Update your professional profiles and use social media to connect with attendees before, during, and after the event. Share insights and engage with event hashtags to expand your network. Be sure to follow Lab Design News on LinkedIn for the latest updates about the Lab Design Conference, our webinars and digital events, and our editorial coverage!

Follow up

After the conference, follow up with new connections. A quick thank-you message or email referencing your conversation can strengthen relationships and open doors for future collaborations.

The Lab Design Conference is your opportunity to gain knowledge, build connections, and explore the future of laboratory design. Don’t miss this chance to grow professionally and establish lasting partnerships—register today to secure your spot. See you in Denver!

MaryBeth DiDonna

MaryBeth DiDonna is managing editor of Lab Design News. She can be reached at mdidonna@labdesignconference.com.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marybethdidonna/
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