Bringing together expertise from across Europe, the annual MERGE conference offered a platform for dialogue on the challenges, opportunities and technical developments shaping the engineering sector. During the previous weekend of September, representatives from 17 European partner offices met in Trenčín and Bratislava, Slovakia, with WTM represented by Dr Stefan Ehmann and Fritz Hilgenstock.
Over three days, participants discussed the current challenges facing European engineering companies, developments in national construction markets, and this year’s main topic: designing in earthquake-prone regions of Europe. De Bondt presented its work on assessing and preventing fracking-induced damage to masonry buildings in the Netherlands. Dr Stefan Ehmann, supported by input from Dr Hanifi Gedik of WTM, outlined the development of earthquake engineering in Germany and highlighted the importance of local knowledge, including ground conditions and sinkholes. Francesco Iorio (SIO), Professor of the University of Padua, presented the current development of the new Eurocode 8, drawing on Italian research findings from recent decades.
The conference also provided an opportunity to share updates on political and economic conditions, company developments, and joint projects. Data-centre construction emerged as a key area of activity and cooperation among the members.
A cultural programme in Trenčín and Bratislava, complemented by joint dinners, facilitated further bilateral discussions on professional associations, alliance agreements (IPD), and international construction-market trends.
We greatly value this productive exchange, as it strengthens trusted collaboration and provides an essential foundation for our continued and future joint work.
