Despite travel restrictions, gathering bans and the substantial financial impact of COVID-19, the GeoCalgary LOC and CGS remain committed to providing a platform to share knowledge and stay connected in these unprecedented times. In consideration of the current global situation, the theme for GeoVirtual 2020 is Resilience and Innovation.

The technical program will encompass a wide range of topics, including speciality sessions that are of local and national relevance. In addition to the technical program, GeoVirtual 2020 will include high calibre short courses and social initiatives to promote networking and engagement opportunities.

The 3-day technical program will consist of:

• R.M. Hardy Keynote Address, presented by Dr Dennis E. Becker, Golder
• CGS Colloquium 2020, presented by Dr Ariane Locat, Université Laval
• Women in Geotechnique – A special panel session to celebrate the women in geotechnique as well as to explore what it looks like for young women who aspire to join the STEM career path. Our panellists will approach topics relevant to women in geotechnique as well as responding to your questions during the live Q/A session. Confirmed panellists include: 
  – Dr Suzanne Lacasse – Technical Director, Norwegian Geotechnical Institute
  – Dr Jocelyn Hayley – Department Head and Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Schulich School of Engineering, University of Calgary
  – Dr Heinrich Heinz – Senior Geotechnical Engineer, Thurber Engineering
  – Leanne McLaren – Junior Geotechnical Engineer, Thurber Engineering
  – Karen Sagar – Engineering Manager, Systra Ltd.
• CGS Heritage Session – With a special presentation by Dr Norbert Morgenstern – Distinguished University Professor Emeritus, University of Alberta. The presentation will reflect on Learnings from Success and Learnings from Failure over the past fifty years. Dr Morgenstern’s contributions to geotechnique in Canada and worldwide will be highlighted in introductions by some distinguished Canadian professionals.
• Young Professionals Special Session – This networking and panel session for students and young professionals will address topics relevant to their career in geotechnique within the current social and economic context.  The session will feature a brainstorm session to allow students and young professionals some time for networking and discussion, as well as a live Q/A session with distinguished panellists: Dr Ariane Locat from Université Laval and Dr Marc Smith from WSP.
• Concurrent breakout sessions with 170+ paper presentations followed by live Q&A with the author

Discussion forums and chat functions will be available where attendees can network, share their research, and provide insights.