Autodesk University 2025: Architecture & Engineering Outlook

Autodesk University (AU) 2025 – the Design & Make Conference – will gather thousands of professionals in Nashville from September 15–18, 2025 (Homepage | Autodesk University). This annual event is a hub for architects, engineers, construction professionals, and designers to explore industry innovations and future trends. Below is a high-level overview of what to expect, focusing on architecture and engineering.

Diverse Vendors and Exhibitors in the Expo

Who’s on the show floor: The Expo will feature a broad mix of vendors, from technology giants to niche solution providers. Attendees can expect booths from major hardware and tech companies (e.g. HP, Dell, NVIDIA showcasing high-performance workstations, GPUs, and VR/AR tools) as well as software partners and startups demonstrating design applications, BIM add-ins, and cloud services (Tackle Design Workflows with NVIDIA RTX at Autodesk University | NVIDIA Blog). For example, past AUs have seen NVIDIA and its ecosystem partners (Dell, HP, Lenovo, Adobe, etc.) highlighting cutting-edge visualization and AI hardware for AEC workflows.

Industry partners: In addition to tech firms, architecture and engineering firms with innovative tech adoption also exhibit. At AU 2024, for instance, the A/E firm SSOE Group participated as a Silver Sponsor, using its booth to demonstrate how diversity and technology fuel design solutions in practice (SSOE Group is all in on Autodesk University 2024: Firm to Sponsor, Present, and Exhibit at The Design & Make Conference - SSOE Group). Exhibitors often include BIM consultants, construction tech companies, 3D scanning and reality capture providers, and other Autodesk partners.

Trends in the Expo: The expo hall is not just about individual booths – Autodesk typically curates themed zones. In 2024, a special Autodesk AI Zone let attendees explore the latest AI features in Autodesk products (APS at Autodesk University 2024 Highlights  | Autodesk Platform Services). There was also an interactive “Cloud: A Sensory Experience” exhibit underscoring connected workflows in the cloud (APS at Autodesk University 2024 Highlights  | Autodesk Platform Services). We can anticipate similar interactive installations in 2025 around hot topics like AI, digital twins, or sustainability. (Do note that booth space has become premium – vendors reported rising costs for expo booths, which in 2024 meant fewer small startups on the floor (https://www.bimpure.com/blog/18-highlights-from-autodesk-university-2024). Still, the expo remains a central draw for networking and tech demos.)

Keynotes, Sessions, and Events to Watch

Main stage keynotes: AU 2025 will kick off with high-profile keynote presentations. Autodesk’s CEO Andrew Anagnost and other executives traditionally share the company’s vision and major announcements in the general session. If last year’s theme is any guide, expect AI to take center stage. In 2024, the opening keynote heavily emphasized Autodesk’s AI vision (“the general session felt similar to last year: AI, AI, AI” as one attendee observed) (https://www.bimpure.com/blog/18-highlights-from-autodesk-university-2024). For AEC professionals, Autodesk highlighted an upcoming AI chatbot assistant in Autodesk Construction Cloud that can query project data via natural language (https://www.bimpure.com/blog/18-highlights-from-autodesk-university-2024). We’re likely to hear updates on that AI assistant and other productivity tools in the 2025 keynote as those capabilities mature.

Architecture & Engineering focus: Beyond the main keynote, Autodesk hosts industry-specific keynotes. The Architecture, Engineering & Construction (AEC) keynote will be especially relevant, with Autodesk’s AEC leadership (such as EVP Amy Bunszel) discussing the latest developments in BIM, design collaboration, and construction technology. In fact, at AU 2024 Autodesk “doubled down on the future of BIM” with announcements about better data connectivity and AI features for AEC (Autodesk advances towards the future of BIM at AU | Autodesk News). We can expect similar AEC-focused updates in Nashville – for example, enhancements to cloud collaboration (Autodesk Docs, Construction Cloud) and design tools (Revit, Autodesk Forma, etc.), all aimed at more integrated project delivery (Autodesk advances towards the future of BIM at AU | Autodesk News).

Hundreds of expert-led classes: A core part of AU is learning. Over the four days, hundreds of classes and workshops will be led by product experts, industry professionals, and Autodesk engineers (Autodesk University 2025 » Contractor+ App). These sessions cover everything from best practices in BIM and project case studies to hands-on labs with Autodesk software. For architects and engineers, there will be talks on topics like advanced Revit workflows, generative design in architecture, sustainable design strategies, and real project examples. (In 2024, notable sessions included using BIM as a contract deliverable, how Tesla manages factory design data in Revit, and practical uses of AI in design workflows (https://www.bimpure.com/blog/18-highlights-from-autodesk-university-2024)) One highly rated 2024 talk by Joachim Viktil of Reope showed “practical AI” in action for architects – envisioning tools like a smart Revit assistant that suggests design improvements instead of just flagging errors (https://www.bimpure.com/blog/18-highlights-from-autodesk-university-2024). We’re likely to see even more such AI-themed tutorials and case studies this year.

Theater talks and panels: In addition to classes, AU features shorter thought-leadership talks in the AU Theater and panel discussions. These often explore big-picture ideas and emerging trends. For example, AU 2024 theater talks included topics like digital transformation in practice and business resilience in the digital age, with industry leaders sharing insights (APS at Autodesk University 2024 Highlights  | Autodesk Platform Services). At AU 2025, expect conversations about the future of architecture (perhaps how generative design and AI will shape practice), sustainability commitments, and the evolving role of architects/engineers in a more automated workflow.

Networking and events: The conference isn’t all lectures – there are many networking opportunities and social events. Evenings often include meetups, receptions, and an AU party for attendees to connect informally (Autodesk University 2025 » Contractor+ App). Autodesk communities (like the Fusion 360 or Revit user communities) may organize meet-and-greets. There are usually industry breakfasts or mixers (e.g., an AEC mixer or a Women in Construction meetup). Such events are invaluable for sharing experiences with peers. (One enthusiast noted that “the best part of AU is the people” – meeting colleagues in person after years of online-only events (https://www.bimpure.com/blog/18-highlights-from-autodesk-university-2024). So in Nashville, plan for plenty of hallway conversations, an expo hall reception, and possibly a closing party to wrap up the week.

Awards and showcases: Autodesk has been shining a spotlight on customer innovation through the Autodesk Design & Make Awards. In 2024, they introduced awards for projects leveraging technology (for instance, honoring a firm that used Autodesk’s platform to design a massive bridge with 60 million data points, showcasing the power of BIM and connected data) (APS at Autodesk University 2024 Highlights  | Autodesk Platform Services). We might see similar awards in 2025, highlighting sustainable design, AI usage, or other exemplary AEC projects. These showcases give a sense of where the industry is heading by celebrating cutting-edge work.

What’s New in 2025: Changes from Previous Years

New location and format: One notable change is location – after Autodesk University 2024 was held in San Diego (SSOE Group is all in on Autodesk University 2024: Firm to Sponsor, Present, and Exhibit at The Design & Make Conference - SSOE Group), the 2025 conference moves to Nashville for the first time. This shift continues Autodesk’s recent trend of rotating host cities (breaking from its old Las Vegas tradition). The Nashville event is slated to run four days (Monday through Thursday), whereas last year’s was three days (SSOE Group is all in on Autodesk University 2024: Firm to Sponsor, Present, and Exhibit at The Design & Make Conference - SSOE Group) (Autodesk University 2025 » Contractor+ App). The extra day could mean more sessions or extended workshops. Attendees will enjoy a new city’s atmosphere – Nashville’s convention center and vibrant downtown should offer a fresh backdrop for AU compared to coastal San Diego or Vegas casinos.

Hybrid access continues: Another carryover change from recent years is the hybrid format. Autodesk will again offer a Digital Pass (free) for those who cannot attend in person (Autodesk University 2025 » Contractor+ App). This means select sessions and keynotes will be live-streamed, and many classes will be recorded for on-demand viewing worldwide. The commitment to a digital component began during the pandemic and remains in 2025, reflecting Autodesk’s effort to make learning accessible to a broader audience. In-person attendees get the benefit of hands-on labs and face-to-face networking, while online participants can still glean insights from key presentations.

Evolving content focus: The content at AU evolves each year to reflect industry shifts. AI and automation have surged as focal points recently – and 2024’s heavy AI theme will carry into 2025 with even more maturity. Sustainability has also grown in prominence (more classes on energy modeling, low-carbon materials, etc., as the AEC sector responds to climate imperatives). And Autodesk’s messaging is shifting toward “outcome-based BIM” – meaning using BIM not just for modeling, but to ensure better project outcomes (cost, efficiency, carbon reduction) (Autodesk advances towards the future of BIM at AU | Autodesk News). Compared to years past where BIM adoption itself was a topic, now the conversation is about leveraging BIM data for tangible results. Attendees in 2025 will notice this nuanced change: classes and keynotes focusing on project outcomes and lifecycle value, not just the technology for its own sake.

Product integration and cloud: A key change in Autodesk’s strategy, reflected at AU, is deeper integration between its products and cloud platforms. For example, at AU 2024 the company announced a new connection between Autodesk Forma (a cloud-based early-stage design tool) and Autodesk Docs (the common data environment) (Autodesk advances towards the future of BIM at AU | Autodesk News). This kind of integration streamlines how architects and engineers move data from design into documentation. By 2025, more such integrations and cloud features will likely be unveiled or in beta. Autodesk is effectively transforming its suite into a more unified platform – and AU sessions will highlight how tools like Revit, Forma, Docs, and Construction Cloud work together more seamlessly than in years prior.

Costs and scale: On a practical note, rising costs have affected some aspects of AU. As mentioned, some smaller vendors skipped the 2024 expo due to high booth fees (https://www.bimpure.com/blog/18-highlights-from-autodesk-university-2024), which slightly changed the expo dynamic (fewer small businesses, more emphasis on larger sponsors). It will be interesting to see if Autodesk addresses this in 2025 to encourage a diverse mix of exhibitors. Attendance numbers are expected to be robust – over 10,000 professionals are anticipated in Nashville (Autodesk University 2025 » Contractor+ App), similar to pre-pandemic levels. For context, AU 2022 and 2023 marked the return of big in-person attendance, and 2024 continued the trend. If anything, the community’s eagerness to convene in person is higher than ever, so 2025 could be one of the largest AUs in recent memory.

New Autodesk Announcements to Anticipate

AU is typically where Autodesk reveals or previews major product updates and new initiatives. While specifics for 2025 are under wraps until the conference, we can infer from recent developments what might be on the agenda:

AI-powered features: Autodesk will likely announce progress on AI features introduced in beta last year. One confirmed development is the Autodesk Assistant in Construction Cloud – an AI chatbot that lets users ask questions of project documents (for example, querying specs or BIM data via natural language) (Autodesk advances towards the future of BIM at AU | Autodesk News). This was in beta in 2024; by AU 2025 we might see a broader release or expanded capabilities (perhaps covering design queries in Revit or suggesting design optimizations). Autodesk’s CEO has emphasized making practical AI tools part of day-to-day workflows (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News), so expect announcements around AI integrations in tools like Revit, Civil 3D, Fusion 360, etc., that automate repetitive tasks (clash resolution suggestions, automatic model corrections, generative options, and so on).

Core product updates: Each year, Autodesk shares what’s new in its flagship software for the coming year. For architects and engineers, that means updates on Revit, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, InfraWorks, and Inventor, among others. While deep technical details will be in specific classes, the high-level announcements could include performance improvements, new collaboration features, and better interoperability. Given the “future of BIM” theme Autodesk has signaled (Autodesk advances towards the future of BIM at AU | Autodesk News), we may hear about increased data exchange capabilities – for instance, easier linking of design models to analysis tools or construction scheduling. Also, Autodesk may highlight the role of Autodesk Forge/Platform Services (APS) behind the scenes enabling these integrations (Autodesk often unveils new APIs or platform services at AU for developers, which translate to better connected products for users).

Cloud and industry platforms: Autodesk has been building out industry-specific cloud platforms (like Autodesk Construction Cloud for AEC, Forma for planning, and Flow for media). In 2025, Autodesk might announce new modules or improvements in these platforms. One example: Autodesk Forma – launched recently for early-stage design in architecture – could see new features or even full release if it was beta. In 2024 Autodesk announced connecting Forma to Docs (closing the gap between concept and project data) (Autodesk advances towards the future of BIM at AU | Autodesk News); by 2025 they might introduce analysis tools in Forma or tighter integration with Revit. Similarly, Autodesk may introduce enhancements to Autodesk Tandem (its digital twin platform) to encourage more use of digital twin data in O&M phases. Any new product announcements will likely align with Autodesk’s message of unifying design-to-make processes (so think in terms of connectivity rather than brand-new disconnected software).

Emerging tech previews: AU sometimes features sneak peeks at R&D projects. In recent years, Autodesk has shown concepts like Project Hyperion (generative design) or experimental AI research. Keep an eye out for any mention of Project “Bernini” or similar (Autodesk has been researching generative AI for 3D content (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News)). If there are any new prototypes – say an AI-driven 3D modeling tool or a breakthrough in real-time rendering – the keynotes or Expo might demo it. For instance, Autodesk’s newsroom hinted at generative AI shape creation and new AI solutions for content creation (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News). While those may pertain to M&E or manufacturing, the architecture audience could still see relevant tech demos, such as AI-assisted space planning or code compliance checking.

In summary, anticipate Autodesk using the conference to unveil incremental yet impactful improvements: more cloud-connected workflows, AI assistance in software, and tools to help architects and engineers work faster and more sustainably. Any official product launches will be framed as steps toward Autodesk’s integrated ecosystem vision.

AI’s Expanding Role in Architecture & Engineering

One of the biggest themes at AU 2025 – especially for architecture and engineering professionals – is the role of Artificial Intelligence in design and construction. Autodesk is weaving AI into almost every aspect of its platform, and the conference will reflect that:

Productivity and automation: Autodesk sees AI as a means to boost daily productivity for architects and engineers. Amy Bunszel (Autodesk EVP for AEC) noted that practical AI tools are making “big strides” in day-to-day applications, directly solving real-world problems in AEC (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News). Instead of AI as a buzzword, the focus is on concrete use-cases: automatically generating design alternatives, optimizing layouts, flagging errors or conflicts proactively, and answering project questions via chatbots. For example, Autodesk is already testing an AI assistant that can instantly pull up relevant specification info when you ask a question, saving professionals from digging through documents (APS at Autodesk University 2024 Highlights  | Autodesk Platform Services) (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News). At AU, expect demos of how such an AI can, say, suggest a more efficient structural design or auto-correct a BIM model inconsistency.

Generative design & optimization: AI in architecture isn’t just about chatbots – it includes generative design algorithms that explore design options under given constraints. Autodesk’s tools like Generative Design in Revit or the cloud-based Project Refinery (now part of Dynamo/Generative Design toolkit) may get airtime, especially where they intersect with AI. Also, Autodesk Forma has some generative capabilities for urban massing and analysis, which might be highlighted for how AI helps optimize building orientation or massing for energy, views, etc. The idea is that AI can handle the heavy lifting of exploring permutations, allowing architects to select the best outcomes. Sessions on “practical AI” (like the Reope talk in 2024) underscore that AI might soon handle routine design tasks or offer suggestions (e.g., an AI that learns from past projects to recommend design corrections) (https://www.bimpure.com/blog/18-highlights-from-autodesk-university-2024). All of this suggests the architect’s role is shifting to one of curator and strategist, leveraging AI-generated insights.

Data-driven decisions: AI thrives on data, and the AEC field is finally harnessing big project datasets. As more architects and engineers move to cloud-based BIM and common data environments, AI can analyze those repositories. Autodesk is promoting connected, cloud-stored project data specifically to enable AI and analytics to improve outcomes (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News). For instance, by aggregating construction data across projects, an AI might predict schedule risks or suggest more sustainable materials. At AU, Autodesk’s AEC keynote will likely highlight examples where AI provided “deeper insights through data analysis”, turning big data into smarter decisions (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News). We might hear customer stories where AI identified a clash that would have been missed, or optimized a building system for energy efficiency beyond human intuition.

Balancing hype and reality: With all the AI buzz, industry professionals are also looking for honesty about what AI can and cannot do. Some moments at AU 2024’s AI-filled keynote reminded attendees of the fine line between “corporate hype and actual innovation” (https://www.bimpure.com/blog/18-highlights-from-autodesk-university-2024). Autodesk is aware of this skepticism. So in 2025, expect them to stress practical AI (features that actually work today or in near-term) over far-future sci-fi. They’ll likely showcase incremental AI improvements – like automated drafting assistants or machine learning in analysis tools – rather than claim AI will fully replace architects. The tone will be that AI is a tool for architects and engineers, not a replacement. And indeed, Autodesk’s leaders have said these advances should give professionals “more time to be creative” as mundane tasks get automated (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News).

Collaborative AI and cloud: Another role of AI is enhancing collaboration. With BIM data in the cloud, multiple stakeholders and even AI agents can work on it simultaneously. Autodesk might demonstrate scenarios where an AI monitors a live model for issues while the team designs, or how AI insights are accessible to all via the cloud (for example, a structural engineer and an architect both query the same project AI assistant for different needs). Connected workflows augmented by AI is a key theme – essentially bringing the promise of AI to every phase, from design through construction.

In short, AI at AU 2025 will be portrayed as an empowering force for architects and engineers: helping crunch data, automate drudgery, and improve designs. The conference will offer not just talks about AI but also hands-on classes to learn new AI-driven features, ensuring attendees understand how to apply these tools when they return to the office.

Conference Structure and Experience

For those planning to attend, here’s how AU 2025 is generally structured and what the experience entails:

Multi-track conference: With thousands of attendees and broad content, AU is organized into multiple tracks by industry and skill. Architecture and engineering professionals will gravitate to the AEC track, but you’re free to join any session across tracks (e.g., a manufacturing session on Generative Design could still intrigue an architect). Sessions run in parallel throughout the day, so attendees often have to choose between interesting talks – but many are recorded for later viewing.

Daily schedule: Typically, the day starts with a General Session Keynote (on the first morning) for everyone. On other mornings, there might be Industry Keynotes (e.g., an AEC keynote one morning, Manufacturing the next, etc.). After the big talks, the rest of the day is filled with breakout classes, workshops, and panels in time slots (usually 1 to 1.5 hours each). There are short breaks and a lunch period (often with sponsored talks or birds-of-a-feather meetups happening). Evenings are reserved for networking events or free time to explore the expo. By the final day, Autodesk often leaves the afternoon for closing sessions or encore keynotes.

Expo hall: The Expo is a central element open throughout most of the conference (usually opening mid-morning and into the afternoon/evening). Here, you can wander among vendor booths for demos or swag, see Autodesk’s own exhibits (they often have booths for each product line or an Autodesk Gallery showing cool projects). It’s a chance to get hands-on with new tech: try out VR design tools, see large format 3D printers or scanners, and talk directly to software developers. The expo hall also hosts theater presentations – informal short talks that you can drop into. With dozens of booths and special zones (like the aforementioned AI Zone or APS Developer Zone), the expo is both informative and a social hub (APS at Autodesk University 2024 Highlights  | Autodesk Platform Services).

Networking and communities: AU makes a point to facilitate networking. Meetups are scheduled for various communities (Revit users, computational designers, etc.). There’s an AU Community Reception where everyone can mingle – often held in the expo hall on one of the nights with drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Autodesk also has an Advisory Council and community groups that might meet at AU for feedback sessions. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself chatting with an Autodesk product manager in the hallway – many Autodesk staff are on-site to interact with customers and answer questions (Autodesk University 2025 » Contractor+ App). It’s an open environment to share ideas and business cards.

Online platform: Those taking the digital pass will use Autodesk’s online conference platform. The structure for them includes live-streams of keynotes and select popular classes. They can also access the recorded sessions usually a few days or weeks after. Autodesk often posts “Classes on demand” so attendees can catch up on sessions they missed (https://www.bimpure.com/blog/18-highlights-from-autodesk-university-2024). For example, by late 2024 Autodesk had an on-demand library of the top sessions for year-round learning. So even if you’re in-person, you don’t have to worry about missing content; you can watch replays later as part of the AU resources.

Overall, AU’s structure balances scheduled learning with free-form exploration. A tip for newcomers: plan your agenda ahead (Autodesk provides an agenda builder app) to make the most of the sessions, but leave some gaps to roam the expo and network. The conference is high-energy and can be overwhelming in size, but it’s well-organized into these components that make it manageable.

Autodesk’s Emphasis on Emerging Trends

Autodesk University is not just about current products – it’s a barometer for where the industry is headed. In 2025, Autodesk is clearly emphasizing a few emerging trends and themes that industry professionals should note:

Connected Data Ecosystems: A strong undercurrent is the move towards connected, cloud-based data across the project lifecycle. Autodesk wants to eliminate data silos between design, construction, and operations. By linking tools like Forma ↔ Docs, Revit ↔ Construction Cloud, etc., they’re enabling end-to-end workflows. This connected data approach means architects and engineers can collaborate more fluidly with contractors, fabricators, and owners on a single source of truth. One buzzword to listen for is “platform” – Autodesk is positioning itself as a platform company (the Autodesk Platform Services underpinning this integration) (APS at Autodesk University 2024 Highlights  | Autodesk Platform Services) (APS at Autodesk University 2024 Highlights  | Autodesk Platform Services). The trend is that your BIM, CAD, GIS, and IoT data all interrelate, and future practice will require managing that holistic data environment.

Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning: As discussed, AI is front and center. But specifically, Autodesk is highlighting practical AI. This includes machine learning features that automate tedious tasks, predictive analytics to foresee project issues, and generative AI to assist creativity. The key trend is AI moving from experimental to ubiquitous in daily tools – essentially becoming another tool in an architect’s toolkit (like CAD was a revolution decades ago, AI assistance is the next). Autodesk’s State of Design & Make report found a large percentage of AEC professionals aiming to use AI for productivity (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News), so Autodesk is responding by infusing AI into its offerings. The trend isn’t AI in a vacuum, but AI embedded in design software – think smart suggestions as you model, automated clash resolutions, or even AI code compliance checks.

Sustainability and Climate Resilience: Autodesk is making sustainability a pillar of its message. The architecture and construction sector’s carbon footprint is under scrutiny, and Autodesk is providing tools to help measure and reduce it. A major trend is integrating sustainability analysis early in design. For example, Autodesk Forma’s Embodied Carbon Analysis (beta) allows architects to gauge the carbon impact of materials and design choices from day one (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News). By embedding such analysis in the design process, architects can make informed decisions before a building is fully designed. Additionally, Autodesk is emphasizing industrialized construction and efficiency (through tools like Autodesk Informed Design for component-based building) to reduce waste and rework (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News). The message: sustainability isn’t an add-on, it’s built into the workflow. We also see Autodesk highlighting how technology helps meet new regulations and ESG goals – “what gets measured gets managed,” as their Chief Sustainability Officer puts it, and digital tools are key to measuring emissions on projects (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News) (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News). So, expect AU sessions on tracking carbon in BIM, designing net-zero buildings, and using simulation to create energy-efficient designs. The broader trend is the greening of AEC through tech, aligning with global decarbonization efforts.

Digital Twins and Lifecycle Insight: Digital twin technology – creating a live data-rich model of a building or infrastructure throughout its life – is gaining traction. Autodesk’s digital twin platform Tandem is likely to be showcased as part of the trend of extending BIM into operations. The idea is that architects/engineers deliver not just a static model but a data-rich twin that owners can use for facility management. As sensors and IoT devices feed data back into models, architects can also learn from building performance for future designs. Autodesk leaders predict continued adoption of digital twins in 2025 to provide real-time, data-driven insights about built assets (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News). This trend ties back into connected data: BIM doesn’t end at handover; it lives on. At AU, look for case studies of large projects using Tandem or similar tools to monitor building performance, and classes about structuring BIM data for lifecycle use.

Immersive Tech (XR): Another emerging trend is the use of Extended Reality (XR) – encompassing Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality – in design and collaboration. Autodesk has been working on tools like Autodesk Workshop XR, an immersive design review space (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News). The trend here is that project teams can step into their models at full scale, improving coordination and client communication. At AU 2025, we expect to see demos of AR/VR being used for things like on-site construction verification or virtual client walkthroughs of designs. This tech has been around, but it’s reaching a point of practicality. The presence of many hardware vendors (VR headset makers, etc.) at the expo underscores how XR is becoming mainstream for AEC. Autodesk will likely emphasize how XR, combined with cloud BIM, enables stakeholders to catch issues early (reducing costly changes) (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News).

Industrialized Construction & Prefabrication: A subtle but important trend Autodesk pushes is the convergence of design and fabrication. Terms like DFMA (Design for Manufacturing and Assembly) or industrialized construction may pop up. Autodesk’s tools are increasingly used to create modular systems, and the Autodesk Informed Design initiative is about treating building elements like products that can be configured (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News). At AU, you might see sessions on prefab construction, automated fabrication from BIM, or contractors using generative design for formwork, etc. Autodesk is emphasizing that construction is becoming more like manufacturing, with architects and engineers playing a role in that transformation by producing fabrication-ready designs.

Outcome-Based Design & Make: Overarchingly, Autodesk is framing its technology around delivering better project outcomes – whether it’s cost savings, faster delivery, or sustainability. This is the essence of their “outcome-based BIM” message (Autodesk advances towards the future of BIM at AU | Autodesk News). The trend for professionals is to use the digital tools not just for creating drawings, but to ensure the building or product achieves key performance indicators (KPIs). That might mean using analytics (did the project stay on budget? did it meet the energy targets?). Autodesk likely will demonstrate how integrating all these trends – AI, data, cloud, prefab – leads to quantifiably better outcomes on real projects. This resonates with industry moves towards IPD (Integrated Project Delivery) and other collaborative frameworks focused on results.

In summary, Autodesk University 2025 will spotlight a convergence of technology trends – cloud connectivity, AI, sustainability, digital twins, XR, and new construction methods – all aimed at empowering architects and engineers to “reimagine what’s possible” in designing and making buildings (Sponsors | Autodesk University). The conference is less about any single software and more about a vision of the future practice where these tools interconnect. For industry professionals, AU 2025’s high-level takeaways will inform strategic decisions: what skills to build (data analytics? computational design?), what processes to adopt (cloud BIM, prefab workflows), and how to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving AEC landscape.

Sources:

Autodesk University 2025 announcement and FAQ (Homepage | Autodesk University) (Autodesk University 2025 » Contractor+ App)

Autodesk University 2024 attendee insights (BIM Pure blog) (https://www.bimpure.com/blog/18-highlights-from-autodesk-university-2024)

Autodesk News press releases and trend articles (Autodesk advances towards the future of BIM at AU | Autodesk News) (Looking forward: Examining the trends shaping design and make in 2025 | Autodesk News)

NVIDIA and partner session highlights (AI and vendors at AU) (Tackle Design Workflows with NVIDIA RTX at Autodesk University | NVIDIA Blog)

SSOE press release – example of industry sponsor participation (SSOE Group is all in on Autodesk University 2024: Firm to Sponsor, Present, and Exhibit at The Design & Make Conference - SSOE Group)

Autodesk Platform Services blog – AU 2024 highlights (expo stats, AI zone, etc.) (APS at Autodesk University 2024 Highlights  | Autodesk Platform Services)

Autodesk University official site and blog (Sponsors | Autodesk University) (Homepage | Autodesk University).