Attending OPTIMA-CON 2024 was an enriching experience, showcasing the latest applications in optimisation methodologies. The conference brought together leading researchers, industry experts, and students, creating a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration. For me, coming from Western Australia, it was particularly valuable to connect with the optimisation network in the eastern states of the country.

The conference confirmed my belief that research driven by real-life industry problems is highly impactful. OPTIMA-CON 2024 highlighted diverse applications across various sectors, from resource industries to service providers, enhancing the practical relevance of the studies presented and fostering innovative solutions to real-world challenges. As an academic involved in teaching, this conference reignited my passion for bridging the research-teaching gap and training the next generation to be work-ready. The diverse sessions and emphasis on practical applications inspired me to integrate more real-world problems into my curriculum, ensuring students are prepared for career challenges.

The keynote sessions were a major highlight. Dr Daniel Guimarans from Amazon provided a deep dive into innovative optimisation solutions for complex middle-mile logistic problems, which was enlightening and thought-provoking. I also connected well with Professor Juergen Branke from the University of Warwick, who spoke on industry-academia collaboration. His practical recommendations around building trust, starting small, and expanding collaborations were particularly insightful. The industry breakfast briefing was another valuable session where the panel discussed why some innovative research isn’t implemented in the industry.

A memorable part of the conference was the panel discussion on optimisation for social good. Ethical considerations often take a back seat in optimisation problems, but this panel highlighted how we can address community needs beyond the usual monetary values applied to industry problems. The panellists presented real-life examples, such as OzHarvest’s work on food rescue for charities through data-driven decision-making. This session underscored the potential of optimisation techniques to positively impact society and inspired attendees to consider the broader implications of their work.

The poster session and careers-industry meet and greet were also impactful. These sessions facilitated direct interactions between students, early-career researchers, and potential employers. It was inspiring to see young talents in mathematical sciences, computer science, and engineering connect with industry leaders, discussing opportunities and gaining insights into career pathways outside academia. This initiative highlighted career opportunities and underscored the practical applications of optimisation skills in various industries. The conference also featured workshops and seminars, offering deep dives into specific aspects of optimisation applications and providing hands-on experience with new tools and techniques.

Overall, OPTIMA-CON 2024 was a well-organised event that successfully bridged the gap between academia and industry. It provided a platform for showcasing the latest research, facilitated valuable networking opportunities, and highlighted the practical applications of optimisation in solving real-world problems. The diverse range of sessions ensured there was something for everyone. I left the conference feeling inspired and more connected to the national optimisation community, eagerly looking forward to future editions of this impactful event.

Elham Mardaneh