LINCOLN, NEBR. — ALLPLAN is proud to announce the launch of Build Forward, a premiere learning and networking event taking place October 15-16, 2025, in Omaha, Nebraska. 

SDS2 and ALLPLAN users and professionals across the design, detailing, fabrication and construction industries are called to bring their ideas, passion and curiosity to the in-person event, and leave equipped with actionable insights, meaningful connections, and a renewed drive to build what’s next. 

Build Forward represents a transformative evolution of SDS2 Summit, an established users conference for SDS2 customers and leaders in the structural steel construction industry. 

As more ALLPLAN solutions take root in the U.S. market, Build Forward is positioned to expand conversations and enable professionals in related industries to engage and learn from each other. 

“Build Forward represents a bold step forward in uniting SDS2 and ALLPLAN users under one banner,” said Michelle McCarthy, regional manager of ALLPLAN in the Americas. “While SDS2 users remain at the heart of this event, we’re excited to welcome ALLPLAN users into the fold and foster innovation and collaboration across disciplines.”

 

Expanding Customer Recognition Through the ALLPLAN Awards

In conjunction with Build Forward, ALLPLAN is also launching an expanded awards program to celebrate outstanding achievements of the ALLPLAN user community. The awards encompass the previously titled SDS2 Solid Steel Awards and introduce additional categories for people and teams. 

The awards honor the technical excellence and creativity of projects created in ALLPLAN from around the world, as well as the inspiring individuals and companies who are pushing boundaries and driving our industry forward. 

SDS2 project award categories include: 

• Commercial (small and large tonnage categories) – For steel projects ranging from residential and recreational facilities to airports and offices.
• Industrial – For utility-driven structures, such as manufacturing plants, warehouses, refineries, and more.
• Complex miscellaneous – For small and unique steel components that don’t fit into traditional structural categories, such as staircases, balconies, or decorative elements.

People and team award categories include:

• Influencer Award – Recognizing outstanding contributions to the ALLPLAN user community
• Ingenuity Award – Recognizing an outstanding display of creative problem solving using ALLPLAN products
• Innovation Award - Recognizing remarkable implementation of ALLPLAN solutions to advance business outcomes or push the industry forward

Winners for all awards will be announced live at the Build Forward conference. 

 

Why attend Build Forward?

Whether you have been using SDS2 for years or are exploring the broader ALLPLAN ecosystem, Build Forward is the ideal place to forge meaningful connections, level up your skills, and explore fresh ideas to drive your career and business forward. 

Attendees can expect: 

• Engaging breakout sessions led by ALLPLAN experts and fellow software users
• A packed exhibit hall featuring the latest technology in design and fabrication
• Opportunities to connect with peers, thought leaders, and innovators from around the world 

To learn more about Build Forward and secure your registration, visit allplan.com/build-forward.