ITA Think Tank

WTC2025 is bringing something new to table. We want to make the most of your attendance in Stockholm and invite you to the live event Think tank.

The ITA Think Tank is a professionally moderated session where some of key challenges are explored, hosted by industry expert in different fields to feed the conversation. With 144 round tables and 864 seats pointed to the stage with cameras following the event and the moderator interaction with the audience. There will be group discussions with your peers together with interactive digital questions to be answered. Get involved, be part of the change, be there!

Think Tank Moderator

Johan Wester is an experienced moderator, comedian, and social actor. With more than 30 years of experience as an artist, author, and entrepreneur, Johan has an excellent background for moderating Think Tank. We welcome both you as a participant and Johan to an unforgettable experience!

Think Tank Co-Host

Hannes Lagger is deeply committed to addressing the industry’s major challenges. With over 20 years of experience in developing, planning, financing, restructuring, and executing large-scale infrastructure projects exceeding $1 billion USD, he stands as one of the most seasoned professionals in the field. Currently, Hannes is responsible for developing and delivering infrastructure work for Arup Global, showcasing his expertise on an international scale.
His wealth of experience positions him as a key figure in shaping the future of large-scale infrastructure initiatives worldwide.

Three topics over three days
Sustainability.

Join our Think Tank session focused on reimagining sustainability in the tunneling industry. As we build for the future, we must address the environmental impact of our progress. Guided by Katarina Malaga and Mikkel Kjaer Jensen, we’ll explore strategies to optimize material use and energy efficiency.
We’ll challenge the trend toward larger constructions and focus on building smarter, not bigger. Our discussion will delve into integrating sustainability into every decision, from material selection to project planning. Together, we’ll inspire actionable solutions to reduce emissions and conserve resources.
Don’t miss this opportunity to shape the future of our industry. Join us and contribute to a movement that prioritizes environmental responsibility while driving innovation in tunnelling. Together, we can build a greener future!

Speakers

Katarina Malaga
– Research and Business Developer at RISE Infrastructure and Concrete Technology.

Katarina has a PhD in chemical and mechanical degradation of building materials (stone and concrete) and is a professor in sustainable construction. Her expertise covers a large number of topics related to building and infrastructure sustainability. She is also an experienced project manager for international (EU) and national research and innovation projects.

Mikkel Kjear Jensen
– Executive Director at Metroselskabet I/S

Mikkel Kjær Jensen is a seasoned infrastructure expert. With a background in civil engineering from the Technical University of Denmark (1998), Mikkel has dedicated his career to advancing Copenhagen’s metro system. He has progressed through roles including Project Manager and Project Director at Metroselskabet, demonstrating a deep understanding of large-scale urban transit projects. Mikkel’s leadership was instrumental in the successful extension of the M4 metro line to Sydhavn and Valby, a project lauded for its timely delivery, budget adherence, and immediate popularity among passengers. His approach emphasizes strong collaboration with contractors and stakeholders, a strategy that has proven effective in managing complex infrastructure developments. Mikkel’s expertise in project management and his ability to foster positive relationships have been key factors in Metroselskabet’s success as a developer, setting new standards in infrastructure project execution. 

Future development

Join us for Day Two of our groundbreaking Think Tank, where we’ll explore the future of the tunneling industry! As our field rapidly evolves, we’re asking crucial questions about tomorrow’s workforce and technology.

What skills will university graduates need to thrive in our changing landscape? How can we harness the power of emerging technologies to revolutionize tunnel construction? What challenges lie ahead, and how can we prepare to overcome them?

This dynamic session will dive deep into:

  • Future-proofing education for the next generation of tunnel engineers
  • Cutting-edge technological advancements shaping our industry
  • Strategies for adapting to and leading change in tunnel construction

By participating in this Think Tank, you’ll be at the forefront of shaping our industry’s future. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute your insights and help build the tunnels of tomorrow. 

Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Dr. Tech. and Professor
KTH Royal Institute of Technology

For over 20 years, Tina Karrbom Gustavsson has critically explored construction project management. She has authored textbooks, supervised doctorate students, and published research papers in internationally renowned journals. Tina Karrbom Gustavsson took a break from academia to serve as the Development Director for a major municipality in Sweden. This experience has given her a unique combination of academic expertise and practical knowledge in research and development within the built environment.

Health and safety

Join us for the final day of our groundbreaking Think Tank, where we’ll tackle one of the most critical issues in tunneling: workplace safety. Despite our industry’s history of accidents, we’ve made significant strides in both technology and leadership. Now, it’s time to push even further.

Imagine a future where every tunneling project is accident-free. With the right leadership and mindset, this vision can become reality. On this exciting day, you’ll:

  • Engage with world-leading safety experts
  • Explore innovative safety solutions through interactive, playful exercises
  • Contribute your ideas to shape a safer future for our industry

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of a movement that’s transforming tunneling safety. Your insights could save lives and revolutionize our approach to workplace well-being. Join us and help build a safer tomorrow for everyone in our industry!

Speakers

Per Rehnman
– Former Group Safety Director at Boliden

Per Renman is a seasoned QEHS professional with over 20 years of international experience across industries such as mining, energy, and infrastructure. As Group Safety Director at Boliden (2014–2024), he led the company’s safety efforts, developing safer work methods, coaching business units, and representing Boliden in international forums. He also chaired the Safety Network and contributed to strategic safety initiatives. Previously, Per held QEHS Manager roles for AgroEcoEnergy and SEKAB BioEnergy in Tanzania, as well as for hydroelectric projects in Panama. At Skanska, he served as Business Unit Sustainability QEHS Manager and Global QEHS Manager, conducting audits worldwide and implementing ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 standards. Per also provided safety support for the award-winning Söderströmstunneln project in Sweden. His expertise in sustainability, compliance, and safety leadership has driven excellence in high-value global projects.