Recap - ULI Utah's 2024 Trends Conference: Future Forward

November 4, 2024

On Tuesday, October 22nd, ULI Utah hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Trends Conference, drawing hundreds of professionals eager to explore the theme “Future Forward: Unleashing Innovation for a Thriving Utah.” The event provided a deep dive into Utah’s real estate landscape, with sessions covering a broad range of pressing issues, from transportation innovation and tourism to Utah’s evolving water and power challenges. Participants had the unique opportunity to engage with influential leaders in real estate, business, and economics, gaining insights into shaping a thriving future for Utah.

The conference opened with an economic keynote by Tim Mahedy, former Fed economist, on “What Comes Next: Navigating the Post-Election Economy.” Mahedy discussed the economic impact of inflation, fluctuating interest rates, and geopolitical forces. He emphasized the importance of proactive strategies to navigate the coming decade of economic shifts, offering valuable foresight into building resilience and growth strategies for Utah’s industries.

The morning continued with Congresswoman Celeste Maloy in conversation with Shannon Ellsworth from Rio Tinto, addressing Utah’s water security. Maloy’s insights on federal initiatives, innovative conservation, and infrastructure investment emphasized the importance of sustainable growth solutions to support Utah’s increasing population. Following this was a session titled “Power is the New Water,” exploring energy solutions and advancements in nuclear and thermal power to meet rising energy demands driven by AI and electrification.

In a dynamic panel led by Tanner Webster from the “Masters in Real Estate” podcast, attendees explored strategies for “Navigating Rising Construction Costs Through Innovation.” Industry experts discussed how new technologies and workforce solutions are helping manage escalating construction costs, with a focus on collaborative methods to ensure cost-effective, high-quality developments.

The afternoon sessions continued with a captivating keynote by Nikki Greenberg, renowned futurist, on “AI & The Future of Commercial Real Estate.” Greenberg highlighted the transformative impact of AI and emerging tech, encouraging real estate professionals to adopt future-ready and sustainable practices that integrate generative AI, spatial computing, and robotics. She emphasized the role of these technologies in creating adaptable, environmentally friendly spaces across asset classes.

The conference also spotlighted Utah’s vision for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), with Chris Metts unveiling Project Alta. This initiative aims to establish electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) capabilities in Utah, positioning the state as a pioneer in air transportation innovation ahead of the 2034 Winter Olympics.

Closing the day was a fireside chat with Mike Maughan from Smith Entertainment Group on “Reinvesting in Downtown,” focusing on the transformation of Salt Lake City’s Sports, Entertainment, Culture, and Convention District. The conference concluded with a session on tourism and economic vitality, where panelists shared their vision for hospitality-driven growth and discussed the infrastructure needed to support Utah’s booming tourism sector.

The 2024 Trends Conference left attendees inspired and equipped with strategies to drive sustainable growth, tackle Utah’s resource challenges, and lead the state into a prosperous future.

Click here to see the full agenda.

Many have requested copies of the Presentations from the Trends Conference. To access these, please visit the links below.

Tim Mahedy’s “What Comes Next: Navigating the Post-Election Economy”