The Rapid Excavation & Tunneling Conference (RETC) stands as the premier international forum where tunneling professionals converge to exchange practical knowledge, share valuable lessons learned, and introduce transformative technologies. It is the only conference with a dedicated focus on the critical developments, trends, and innovations directly impacting the tunneling and underground construction industry. Attending RETC provides unparalleled value by ensuring practicing professionals stay comprehensively informed about new technologies, innovative concepts, cutting-edge equipment, advanced materials, management strategies, financing solutions, and complex design challenges. Serving as an authoritative program and a renowned international platform, RETC actively advances engineering and scientific knowledge of rapid underground excavation and tunneling through interdisciplinary meetings, publications, and technical-educational exhibitions. This event is essential for industry leaders, practitioners, manufacturers, owners, consultants, and contractors from around the world, all seeking to remain at the forefront of underground construction advancements.
Highlights
4 items
01
Premier Tunneling Forum
The leading international event for tunneling professionals to exchange knowledge, share lessons, and discover transformative technologies.
02
Dedicated Industry Focus
Uniquely centered on developments, trends, and innovations specific to the tunneling and underground construction industry.
03
Extensive Technical Sessions
Features 21 technical sessions offering insights into industry issues, trends, and applications of tunneling knowledge and technology.
04
Significant Industry Scale
Attracts 200 exhibitors and 1400 visitors, showcasing a broad spectrum of the underground construction sector.
Previous Edition
1,400
Attendees
200
Exhibitors
2,230
Net Area · ㎡
FAQ
4 questions
RETC is dedicated to advancements, technology, trends, and innovations in the tunneling and underground construction industry.
The Rapid Excavation and Tunneling Conference (RETC) is sponsored by the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME).
RETC 2027 is expected to host 200 exhibitors and 1400 visitors across 24,000 sqft of exhibition space.
Abstracts for RETC 2027 are being accepted through June 30, 2026.
