What's Happening?
Bentley Systems has announced the opening of submissions for its 2026 Year in Infrastructure (YII) Awards. This annual program is designed to recognize and celebrate digital innovation in infrastructure design, construction, and operations that utilize
Bentley software. The awards aim to highlight projects that demonstrate significant improvements in efficiency, cost performance, resilience, and sustainability across various infrastructure sectors, including water and wastewater. Over the past two decades, more than 5,500 projects worldwide have participated in the program, with past winners including large-scale initiatives like the EchoWater Project. The awards now focus on how projects leverage data assets to create value throughout their lifecycle, from financial decision-making to design and construction. Submissions are open until May 3, and finalists will be announced in August, with winners revealed at the Year in Infrastructure event in Singapore on October 6-7.
Why It's Important?
The YII Awards play a crucial role in promoting best practices and setting new standards in the infrastructure industry. By recognizing projects that effectively use digital tools such as connected data environments, artificial intelligence, and digital twins, the awards encourage innovation and the adoption of advanced technologies. This focus on digital transformation is vital for improving the resilience, efficiency, and sustainability of infrastructure projects, which are essential for addressing global challenges such as climate change and urbanization. The recognition of these projects can drive further investment and interest in digital solutions, benefiting industries and communities by enhancing infrastructure performance and reducing costs.
What's Next?
As the submission deadline approaches, infrastructure professionals and organizations are expected to prepare and submit their projects for consideration. The announcement of finalists in August will generate anticipation and interest within the industry, leading up to the awards ceremony in October. The event in Singapore will provide a platform for industry leaders to share insights and innovations, potentially influencing future trends and practices in infrastructure development. Stakeholders, including government agencies, private companies, and industry associations, may respond by increasing their focus on digital innovation and collaboration to achieve similar successes.
