Uruguay strengthens its international positioning in architecture, engineering, and construction with a standout presence at AIA25

A delegation of Uruguayan companies from the AEC sector (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) participated in the AIA Conference on Architecture & Design 2025, one of the most influential events in the industry in the United States. Held at the Boston Convention Center -designed by renowned Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly- the event brought together over 800 companies and thousands of professionals, offering a key platform to showcase national talent to a global audience and advance the internationalization of the sector.

The national presence, coordinated by Uruguay XXI, was part of a promotional strategy to position the country as a reliable and competitive partner in architecture, engineering, and construction technology services.

The delegation comprised CSI Global, DIM Studio, Montevideo Architectural Group (MAG), and Proyectos Ingeniería. With Full Pass credentials, they accessed more than 100 conferences, workshops, and exclusive activities. They also toured the AIA25 expo, where over 800 exhibitors presented trends in sustainable design, construction solutions, and emerging technologies for the sector.

“These experiences are extremely enriching. They allow us to accelerate both personal and technical learning for our companies and to understand better how to position ourselves with international firms,” said Juan Mermot, director of DIM Studio. He noted that the event enabled concrete connections with studios seeking external support for visual production—one of the strategic focuses of his company.

A platform for collective growth

Beyond individual insights, the group presence fostered networking among peers in the local ecosystem. Vicente Bonilla, director of MAG and Uruguay’s national representative to AIA, emphasized the importance of these missions to strengthen the country’s positioning and highlighted the spirit of collaboration. “That’s what I value most about the event: the real possibility to build networks among peers inside and outside the country. When one grows, we all can grow,” he said.

In his role as Uruguay’s representative to AIA International, Bonilla underscored the value Uruguayan firms can offer international teams—especially in graphic and modeling development, conceptual design, and executive documentation. “Talent, flexibility, and remote collaboration provide real value to foreign studios,” he stated. He also pointed to differentiating strengths such as strong English skills, solid methodologies, and a professional culture aligned with global standards. “Beyond talent, Uruguay offers commitment, attitude, and a very human approach to collaboration—qualities especially valuable in remote projects,” he concluded.

Key visits and strategic networking

The delegation’s agenda included visits to prominent Boston-based architecture studios such as Howeler + Yoon, Wilson Butler Architects, and Copley Wolff Design Group. They also attended receptions hosted by the Latin Architects Coalition (AIA Latin America) and the consultancy PSMJ Resources, ideal settings for strengthening contacts in a more informal environment.

For Jazmín Aguirre, BIM Manager at Proyectos Ingeniería, attending such a large-scale event for the first time “greatly exceeded expectations.” She described AIA25 as an opportunity to broaden her professional vision, gain direct insight into global sector trends, and understand current approaches in design and architecture. “One of the most valuable aspects was the networking with U.S. firms. The event offers a unique chance to build connections with potential clients, explore future collaborations, and position Uruguay within a global ecosystem,” she said.

Building the future

Uruguay had not participated in an AIA conference since 2014 when the event was held in Chicago. This return reaffirms the country’s commitment to boosting the international reach of its creative talent and opening new markets for AEC companies.

“Beyond immediate results, the true value lies in building a sustained presence. Participating in events like this keeps Uruguay on the radar and ensures our ecosystem is seen as a trustworthy, professional, and globally aligned option,” Bonilla concluded.

With qualified talent, institutional strength, and a work culture focused on excellence, Uruguay continues establishing itself as a strategic partner in the global architecture and engineering market.