Women in BIM at Autodesk University 2025: advancing visibility, connection and innovation

by Abarna Krishnakumar, Head of Regional Leads – North America, Women in BIM

Autodesk University 2025, held in Nashville, once again proved itself as a global catalyst for innovation, collaboration and forward thinking dialogue in the digital built environment. As the premier event for professionals at the intersection of architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing and emerging technologies, it brings together leaders, innovators and practitioners committed to shaping the future of how we design, build and make.

Women in BIM has long been a proud supporter and attendee of Autodesk University, recognising the event as a key platform for visibility, engagement and influence within the global BIM space. Our presence this year reflected not only our ongoing commitment to advancing gender equity in the sector, but also the growing momentum of our mission to connect and empower women across the digital built environment.

At Autodesk University 2025, Women in BIM achieved remarkable visibility and influence, expanding our reach through meaningful engagement throughout the conference and building stronger connections across the global BIM community.

Each day, Women in BIM hosted a networking event at the Global eTraining booth, where attendees connected, collaborated and celebrated women’s contributions to the digital built environment.

These daily sessions became a vibrant focal point for conversation and collaboration, creating space for emerging and established professionals alike to share experiences, forge relationships and discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities within the industry. The support from Global eTraining as our host provided a vital platform for us to facilitate inclusive, open dialogue with the wider Autodesk University audience.

A key highlight of our participation was welcoming several new Regional Leads to the Women in BIM network. These incredible women, representing diverse regions and professional backgrounds, bring fresh energy, local insight and leadership to our growing global community. Their involvement is a critical step in strengthening our capacity to support and connect women in BIM across multiple geographies and disciplines.

The culmination of the week’s activity was the official launch of the Women in Make & Design community in partnership with Autodesk – a significant milestone that signals a new chapter in Autodesk’s commitment to equity and innovation. This initiative will serve as a dedicated space for women across the design and technology sectors to engage, share knowledge and foster leadership in an industry undergoing rapid transformation.

Autodesk University continues to be a beacon of innovation in our sector, not only through the technologies and ideas it showcases, but also through its emphasis on community, inclusion, and future-focused leadership.

Our involvement at this year’s event demonstrated the power of visibility and collaboration in driving meaningful change. As we look ahead, we are energised by the opportunities that lie before us, to amplify women’s voices, cultivate talent and shape a more equitable and digitally enabled built environment for all.