Every four years, the mechanics community from around the world gathers at the Congresses organized under auspices of the International Union of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics (IUTAM) to discuss science, strengthen relationships, and marvel at the ever-growing applications of this discipline. Following the 23rd IUTAM Congress in Beijing in 2012, Canada will have the pleasure of hosting the 24th Congress in Montréal from 21-26 August 2016. I invite you to reserve these dates in your calendars now, and plan to join us. We will work hard to make this Congress – ICTAM 2016 – one of the best yet.

ICTAM 2016 will take place at the vast Palais des congrès situated in the heart of downtown Montréal, one of the most multi-cultural, safe and exciting cities in North America. Numerous hotel rooms and dormitories have been secured within an easy walking distance from the Palais and we will be in close proximity to great shopping, museums and multitude of restaurants to suit any taste. Furthermore, our venue borders the Old Port, one of Montréal’s top tourist attractions.

On behalf of the Local Organizing Committee and the IUTAM Executive Committee, I would like to extend my warmest invitation for you to join us in Montréal. In addition to enjoying the great scientific program that will be put together by the International Program Committee, you will renew ties with old friends and colleagues while making new connections. The richness of Montréal’s famous nightlife provides a great opportunity for exciting after-lecture socializing and the city itself is a perfect jumping-off point from which to explore and discover some of Canada’s most astounding natural environments either before or after the Congress.