Operations Challenge Planning Day at Skewb offices

A piece from Will Casey at Capgemini

Over the past five months, I’ve been working closely with Tony Summerscales and the SKEWB team to redesign the operational concept for the upcoming IWA event in Glasgow, scheduled for October 2026. Together, we have shaped a new challenge format centred around a dynamic “control room” scenario, designed to create a more immersive and realistic experience for participants.

The event will see four teams, each made up of three participants, competing across both Tuesday and Wednesday. Each day will host two sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, providing multiple opportunities for teams to take part in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

We’ve now completed the high-level design of the challenge, working in partnership with six leading water companies, including Welsh Water, Anglian Water, Scottish Water, Yorkshire Water and South West Water. Their input has been critical in ensuring the scenario reflects real-world operational challenges and industry priorities.

The SKEWB team has now moved into the detailed design and build phase, focusing on developing the simulation that will underpin the experience. In parallel, preparations for event logistics are progressing, with equipment requirements already scoped and a site visit planned with the supplier to confirm final needs.

Registration for the challenge will be opening in the coming weeks, allowing participants to sign up either as complete teams or as individuals eager to get involved in this exciting new format.