Equipe · The people behind Geotechnica
Geotechnica comes from people who work in the ground industries and understand the conversations, equipment and practical knowledge that help them move forward.
Geotechnica’s connection to the industry is built into the way it is created. The people behind the event work in geotechnical training, drilling, assessment, innovation and industry communications.
That experience shapes its purpose: bring suppliers, manufacturers, contractors, consultants, clients and practitioners together to communicate, promote, network and learn. Practical demonstrations sit alongside technical discussion, with space for proper conversations between the people using equipment and the people developing it.
Equipe was founded in 2008 by Julian Lovell, Peter Reading and Keith Spires. Its work in specialist training and geotechnical services provided the setting for the first Geotechnica in 2009.
The event has grown and changed, but the principle remains the same: an event created by the industry, for the industry.
More about Equipe GroupThree perspectives that connect Geotechnica’s technical roots, practical drilling experience and event organisation.
Co-founder & Managing Director
Julian’s background spans geology, geotechnical consultancy and ground investigation contracting. A co-founder of Equipe and a previous Chair of the AGS, he brings practical project experience and a commitment to sharing knowledge and improving industry practice. That combination sits at the heart of Geotechnica: a place where technical discussion and commercial conversations belong together.
Co-founder & Product and Innovations Director
Keith learned the drilling trade from the ground up, progressing from drilling support to lead driller before running Danetre Drilling for 20 years. His work in training, assessment, auditing and drilling guidance brings the perspective of the people doing the work on site. It is an important part of keeping Geotechnica practical, relevant and connected to the drilling community.
Operations Director & Head Organiser
Calum joined Equipe in 2012 and has been Head Organiser of Geotechnica since 2016. His work spans event organisation, design, marketing and industry communications, alongside a background in training administration and The Geotechnical Academy. He brings those strands together to shape how Geotechnica looks, communicates and works for its exhibitors, speakers and visitors.
From the programme archive
A selection of turning points, from the first gathering at the Upton Estate to new venues, partnerships and conversations that have shaped the event. Through each chapter, Geotechnica has stayed rooted in the needs and experience of its industry.
2009
Geotechnica began on 27 & 28 August at The Drilling Academy on the Upton Estate, near Banbury. The first programme described a new technical trade show celebrating innovation in geotechnics and drilling, with an ambition to bridge the gaps between academia and industry. Technical speakers, equipment demonstrations and an exhibition were part of the format from the start.
2013
The fifth edition moved to the Warwickshire Exhibition Centre. The programme introduced exhibitor presentations, a technical debate on Eurocodes and an evening networking event in nearby Royal Leamington Spa, bringing more ways to exchange ideas alongside the exhibition.
2016
Geotechnica’s eighth edition took place at Brunel University London, in partnership with the university during its 50th anniversary year. Its conference examined the state of the industry, lessons from projects, best practice and emerging technologies, with a Geotechnical Academy Fringe Festival alongside it.
2018
The tenth edition returned to Warwickshire with a sold-out exhibition, product launches and live demonstrations. Its conference looked both to major UK infrastructure projects and to the geotechnical leaders of tomorrow, inviting attendees to join discussions about the industry’s direction.
2021
After the COVID-19 interruption, Geotechnica returned to Warwickshire as a chance to reconnect in person. Two conference areas explored procurement, safety, health, the environment and sustainability, while also providing a launchpad for early-career geopractitioners. The emphasis was on rebuilding conversations and looking ahead together.
2022
The AGS brought its Annual Conference to Geotechnica, alongside the safety, health and environment programme and the AECOM Early Career Geopractitioners Conference. A sold-out exhibition brought clients, consultants, contractors, specialists and suppliers together: the whole supply chain sharing one meeting place.
2024
The first conference day asked what makes a successful ground investigation, with specialists sharing six actions to improve practice. The second turned to safety and inclusion. Alongside the indoor exhibition and outdoor paddock, these conversations kept practical improvement at the centre of Geotechnica.
2025
The conference drew lessons from Claridge’s basement, HS2, Hinkley Point C and the Lower Thames Crossing before looking ahead to AI, future talent, sonic drilling and trial pitting. Live demonstrations and an exhibition spanning the supply chain reinforced the programme’s own description of Geotechnica: built by the industry, for the industry.
2026
The conference brought practitioners together to question whether current ground investigation methods remain fit for purpose, debate the role of British Standards and the future of the Standard Penetration Test, and explore AI and better use of ground engineering data. Expert presentations and panel discussions put the industry’s own experience at the centre of the conversation, continuing Geotechnica’s commitment to being run by the industry, for the industry.
A look back at the layouts, posters and programme artwork from 2009 to 2026. Select an image to see it in more detail.
Exhibition space, technical knowledge, live equipment and the chance to meet face to face remain at the centre of the event. For 2027, that includes more flexible exhibition, partnership and sponsorship choices, and a new Geotechnica Passport challenge.
Across the years, the reason to come together has stayed the same: communicate, promote, network and learn.
Explore previous exhibitors · Discover past speakers and talks
