ARBS 2026 spotlights inclusion, innovation and digital leadership with A.G. Coombs

April 30, 2026

ARBS 2026 will bring Australia’s HVAC&R and building services sector together at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 5-7 May.

As the largest HVAC&R and building services event in Australia, ARBS 2026 is expected to welcome more than 10,000 attendees and feature over 350 exhibitors, supported by a comprehensive speaker program discussing emerging technologies, workforce inclusion, developing talent and evolving industry best practice.

A.G. Coombs is delighted to continue its long‑standing involvement in the ARBS seminar program with participation in a wide range of panel discussions and technical sessions.

These sessions will share perspectives on how the industry can continue to strengthen inclusive, high‑performing teams while advancing digital capability, construction innovation and long‑term building performance outcomes:

Data‑Driven HVAC: The Next Evolution of Building Performance

Day 1 – Tue, 5 May

Digital analytics, predictive maintenance and artificial intelligence are increasingly shaping how HVAC and building systems are operated, maintained and optimised.

This session will feature a series of short presentations followed by a panel discussion examining the practical application of data‑driven maintenance, BMS analytics and AI across the built environment. The discussion will focus on how these technologies are being used to improve asset performance, reduce operating costs and support smarter, more efficient buildings.

Andrew Smith, A.G. Coombs National Data‑Driven Maintenance (DDM) and Analytics Leader will join an industry panel to share insights into how digital tools and advanced analytics are changing approaches to HVAC operations and lifecycle management.

The panel will explore:

The integration of digital analytics and BMS data
Predictive maintenance strategies and condition‑based servicing
The application of artificial intelligence in HVAC&R environments.

Together, these perspectives will highlight how data‑led approaches are enabling more informed decision‑making, improved system reliability and better long‑term performance outcomes for building owners and operators.

Leading the Change: Organisations Advancing Women in HVAC&R

Day 2 – Wed, 6 May

Building on earlier workforce discussions, this panel will shift focus toward organisational leadership and employer‑led action, recognising the need to attract and retain more women across technical, engineering and leadership roles.

Jodi Whelan, A.G. Coombs Executive Manager Customer Engagement will join industry peers to share insights, initiatives and practical examples of how organisations are supporting women to enter, thrive and progress in HVAC&R careers.

Discussion topics will include:

What is working across the industry
Where further progress is needed
Leadership actions that support a stronger, more inclusive future workforce

How Digital Industrialisation is Transforming Construction and Building Services

Day 2 – Wed 6 May

A data‑driven approach to design is becoming essential, shifting decision‑making earlier in the process and enabling greater certainty, quality and consistency across outcomes. By embedding manufacturing intelligence upfront, teams can better manage risk, optimise delivery timelines and lift overall performance.

This session explores A.G. Coombs’ journey from prefabrication and Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) to informed design, highlighting how integrated digital and manufacturing insights are improving project results. The presentation will be delivered by John VanCuylenberg, Virtual Design and Construction Leader; Daniel Waack, Integrated Prefabrication Leader; and Nicholas Walsh, Modelling Coordinator – Integrated Prefabrication.

Women Igniting Change

Day 3 – Thurs 7 May

A.G. Coombs is proud to be recognised as a Pledge Partner of Women Igniting Change at ARBS 2026 and Fire Australia 2026, reinforcing our commitment to building a more inclusive future for the built environment.

Taking place on 7 May 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Women Igniting Change brings together industry leaders to drive practical progress on workforce diversity, leadership and the future of trades.

The event will feature a virtual address by Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, alongside insights from respected industry voices Dr Bronwyn King AO, Melinda Davis and Debbie Lee.

Attendees will gain practical perspectives on creating lasting industry change and have the opportunity to support the 30×30 commitment, with the shared goal of increasing female participation in trades and technical roles to 30% by 2030. Join peers from across the built environment and be part of the change shaping our industry’s future.

With a comprehensive program of insightful, practical seminars and workshops, ARBS 2026 is set to be the leading HVAC&R and building services event of the year. We hope you can join us.