Conference Venue

fiera milano

The 1st VLF4EU Conference will take place at Fieramilano Rho, Milan, Italy, on 14 October 2026, as part of 35.BI-MU, the international biennial exhibition dedicated to machine tools, robotics, automation, digital manufacturing and enabling technologies. Organised by UCIMU-SISTEMI PER PRODURRE, BI-MU brings together industrial companies, technology providers, researchers and professionals to explore the latest developments in advanced manufacturing. Hosting the conference within this exhibition provides an opportunity to connect discussions on vocational education, virtual learning factories and the twin transition with technologies and applications presented by industry.

Located in Rho, just outside Milan, Fieramilano is one of Europe’s major exhibition centres. Designed by architect Massimiliano Fuksas and inaugurated in 2005, the complex features eight large pavilions comprising 20 exhibition halls, with approximately 345,000 m² of indoor exhibition space. Its distinctive architecture is characterised by a spectacular glass-and-steel canopy extending along the central pedestrian axis, connecting exhibition halls, conference facilities and service areas. The venue is easily accessible from Milan through the M1 metro line and railway connections, providing a convenient setting for international visitors.

ucimu

The morning conference programme will take place in the BI-MU Competence Arena, Hall 24 – Area A02, from 09:30 to 12:30. Located within the exhibition area, this space will host the opening session, presentations and plenary discussions addressing industrial skills needs, the role of virtual learning factories and innovative approaches to education and training. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore the BI-MU exhibition and discover advanced manufacturing technologies.

The afternoon sessions, from 14:00 to 16:30, will take place in the LEM 3 Conference Rooms A and B, situated at Ponte dei Mari, across from Hall 11. These dedicated conference rooms will host parallel technical presentations, demonstrations and interactive workshops, followed by a joint closing discussion. The combination of the exhibition environment and dedicated meeting facilities offers a setting for knowledge exchange and collaboration between education, research and industry.

Conference venue: BI-MU Competence Arena
Street address:
Strada Statale 33 del Sempione, 28 – 20017 Rho (Milano) Italy.