
Everything you need to know about the 2025 Annual Conference
We are thrilled you are joining us in Birmingham on April 28-29!
We have tried to answer as many questions as possible below, but if there is any information missing or you have any other questions, please get in touch with comms@wes.org.uk
Before the Conference:
How do I get to the Venue?
This year our conference is based at The Eastside Rooms, Birmingham. Plan your journey here
Please note: The Women’s Engineering Society have no affiliation with any of the Transport or Accomodation options listed above, and attendees book/park at their own risk.
Is Food Provided?
Food and refreshments are included as part of your ticket.
Free Tea, Coffee and Water are available throughout the event and a buffet will be provided at midday on both days. We have arranged with the venue for the buffet to have vegetarian and vegan options on both days, but we cannot guarantee the availability of suitable options for people with allergies and intolerances if arrangements are not made in advance.
You must notify us in advance of any allergies or dietary requirements as a priority! Please Contact comms@wes.org.uk as soon after your booking as possible so that appropriate arrangements can be made with the venue.
Is the Venue Accessible?
- We welcome assistance dogs (please pre-inform the venue if an assistance dog will be attending or email comms@wes.org.uk and we will notify them for you)
- Induction loop facilities are available at all reception desks, the main Affinity Suite and selected meeting rooms
- There are accessible toilets on every floor of the building We are the only venue in Birmingham to host a full changing places facility
- All staff have undertaken full disability awareness training
- The hotel next door, Aloft Birmingham Eastside, has 10 accessible bedrooms, with one having a full hoist from bed to bathroom
For a comprehensive access guide visit their website
Will I receive a ticket before the event? How do I check in?
Tickets are not being sent in advance. Upon arrival at the venue please make your way to the registration desk and a name badge will be available.
If you booked tickets for more than one person, or someone other than yourself and you have not yet confirmed their names, please contact comms@wes.org.uk with the name(s), email addresses and dietary requirements of the people who are attending.
What’s the dress code?
At our conferences, most people like to dress in ‘smart casual’ clothes. But don’t worry too much! We really just want you to feel comfortable and have a good time. So, wear whatever makes you happy – we’re just thrilled you’re coming!
Is there a hotel nearby?
Aloft Birmingham Eastside is the hotel next door. Boasting 195 plush bedrooms, atmospheric cocktail lounge, complete with a pink pool table and vibrant 120-seater Tempo!
During the Conference:
How do I ask questions during presentations?
We want you to get the most out of every session! Each speaker or exhibitor will let you know the best time to ask questions. Usually, we’ll have a short Q&A time at the end where you can ask away!
Since we have lots to cover, sometimes speakers might not have time for every question. But don’t worry! You can chat with them during our networking sessions and breaks. They’re all really nice and excited to share their knowledge with you.
If you’re a little shy about going up to them (which is totally okay!), just find a WES staff member. We’d love to introduce you and help you start a conversation!
How can I connect with other attendees?
We have designed our 2 day conference programme with networking in mind. We have left plenty of intervals between sessions to give you chance to connect with other attendees and our exhibitors. We have also tried to make our sessions as interactive as possible, in line with our theme #TogetherWeEngineer so you leave our annual conference as part of a community of women engineers. Please view our programme to see what we have in store.
Where can I go if I need a quiet space or a multi-faith room?
We are dedicated to ensuring that everyone feels comfortable at this year’s annual conference. To accommodate this, we have arranged for a Multi-faith Room and a separate Quiet Room at the venue. Both rooms will be located on the 1st floor, easily accessible via wheelchair-friendly lifts, and clearly signposted for your convenience.
These rooms will be available throughout the conference for anyone with religious observances or those seeking a tranquil space.
Should you require assistance locating these rooms, please do not hesitate to approach a WES staff member or a venue staff member, who will be more than happy to guide you.
We hope these facilities will enhance your conference experience.
Where are the restrooms?
All restrooms will be clearly signposted throughout the venue on every floor, including accessible restrooms. If you need help locating a restroom and can’t see the venue signage, please ask a WES member of staff or an Eastside Rooms Member of staff and we are happy to direct you.
After the Conference:
Can I get a certificate of attendance?
How do I provide feedback about the conference?
A link to our feedback form will be provided after the event