Abstract Submission

Welcome!

The Common Ground Alliance (CGA) invites industry professionals, innovators and thought leaders to submit proposals for educational sessions at the 2027 CGA Conference & Expo happening April 12-35, 2027, in Tampa, Florida. This premier event brings together stakeholders from every corner of the damage prevention industry to explore actionable solutions and cutting-edge strategies that reduce damages to underground infrastructure.

Why Present?
Presenting at the conference is your opportunity to:

· Share your expertise with a national audience of industry peers

· Highlight your contributions to damage prevention and underground utility safety

· Inspire progress toward CGA’s 50-in-5 industry challenge

· Expand your professional network and engage in meaningful dialogue with decision-makers

Whether you're submitting individually or as part of a panel, your insights—backed by real-world case studies, technology applications and lessons learned—can help drive change across the industry.

What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking dynamic, content-rich sessions that provide practical insights and spark collaborative discussions. Proposals should focus on education, innovation and industry advancement.

Presentations must remain free of product marketing or promotional content. Proposals deemed sales-oriented will not be considered.

Priority Topics Include (but are not limited to):

· Proven strategies, measurable progress and solutions towards CGA’s 50-in-5

· Critical role of the facility owner/operator as the leader in driving down damages

· Technology applications improving the industry today

· AI-driven subsurface imaging, augmented reality overlays and LiDAR advancements for utility mapping

· Platforms that enable secure, real-time data exchange between utilities, contractors and 811 centers

· Automation, AI and predictive analytics can transform ticket management and prevent over-notification

· Improving accountability and communication across the 811 system

· Successful approaches addressing infrastructure locate surges with scalable solutions

· Importance of effective safe digging laws and regulations

· Reaching excavators and likely diggers through outreach, education and engagement

Proposal Timeline
Submit your proposal by Oct. 23, 2026 for consideration. All submissions are vetted and reviewed by the CGA Conference Advisory Panel comprised of industry leaders of CGA stakeholder groups, along with CGA committee co-chairs, CGA leadership and conference management. Notification of acceptance will be sent to submitters via email by Dec. 4, 2026. Submitters must accept participation by Dec. 11, 2026. Failure to accept by the deadline will be treated as a decline.

Please Note: All speakers are responsible for their own conference registration, travel arrangements and any interpreter arrangements/fees.

Questions?
If you have any questions, please contact Lisa O'Leary at lisao@commongroundalliance.com.