World Demolition Summit kicks off in Nashville

WDS 2025 was officially opened by Ben Hayden of the NDA.

The event was officially opened this afternoon by Ben Hayden, President of the National Demolition Association.

In his opening address, Hayden highlighted the importance of global collaboration in addressing shared industry challenges.

“I’ve learned that a lot of the challenges we face are not confined to just our area,” he said. “Events like these allow us to learn from everyone.”

Hayden outlined the NDA’s current strategic initiatives, which include strengthening and advancing safety standards through expanded training, a new company accreditation programme, and enhanced certification schemes for demolition supervisors and technicians.

He also noted the launch of a new Methods, Planning and Design in Demolition course, which drew over 50 participants in its first session.

Addressing workforce development, Hayden said the association is focused on defining clear career paths within the industry, supported by a Workforce Development Toolkit featuring position descriptions, pre-apprenticeship guidelines, and training standards. “These initiatives will help our members find, recruit, and develop the next generation of safe demolition professionals,” he said.

“Forums such as the World Demolition Summit bring together the best and brightest minds in the industry to collaborate on our most pressing challenges,” Hayden concluded. “The ability to network and build relationships here can strengthen our industry for years to come.”

This year marks the first time WDS has been extended to three days, beginning with a new VIP Day and followed by two days of conference sessions. The event will culminate with the World Demolition Awards & Gala Dinner on the evening of 5 November.

Speakers on VIP Day included Michele O’Rourke (O’Rourke Wrecking Company) and Steve Farner (Laborers’ International Union of North America), along with representatives from Volvo, Steelwrist, and other sponsors.