Tuesday, January 28, 2025
 

Exhibitor Setup

3:00 pm - 8:00 pm
 

​Wednesday, January 29, 2025
 

Exhibitor Setup
7:00 am - 10:00 am

 

Registration Open

7:00 am - 4:00 pm

Coat & Bag Check

7:00 am - 7:00 pm

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Networking Breakfast

8:00 am - 9:00 am

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Opening General Session and Awards

9:00 am - 10:15 am

Keynote: Generational Harmony: Embracing Diversity in a Multi-Generational Workplace

Today is the first time in history that four generations are working side by side. So now more than ever, understanding and leveraging the strengths of different generational cohorts is essential for organizational and event success. This keynote unpacks the curious habits, values, and working styles of today’s generations — from attendee and employee trends to their ever-increasing demands on event & meeting experiences. Through practical strategies and real-world examples, this session will equip leaders and team members with the tools to foster collaboration, enhance productivity, and create an inclusive work environment where every generation thrives and drives success. In this session we will:

• Understand the needs and expectations of these generations in the Meetings and Events Industry and the workforce

• Learn how to build a compatible business strategy between the generations to keep them influenced and engaged

• Get actionable steps to create an inclusive and engaging work environment, event or meeting

Tim Hines, Founder, Marketing Starter Group

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The Southwest Showcase Trade Show

10:15 am - 4:00 pm

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Opening Trade Show Celebration in the Exhibit Hall

10:15 am - 11:00 am

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20-Minute Exhibitor Talks on the Show Floor (3 total)

11:00 am - 12:00 pm

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AM1 Concurrent Educational Sessions

11:00 am - 12:00 pm

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Designing Engagement: Innovative Approaches to Event Floor Plans

Session Description and Speaker Information Coming Soon

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Price Pressures: Overcoming Challenges in Event Cost Management - Part 1

In today's ever-evolving event landscape, conference organizers face increasing price pressures in all facets of event planning. Join us for a 2-part panel discussion where industry experts will delve into the complexities of managing costs without compromising on qualtity.

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Part one will focus on events held at convention centers. We will explore the current trends in pricing and fee structures and share practical strategies for overcoming these challenges.  This session will provide actionable tips and innovative approaches to ensure your events are both cost-effective and successful.  Discover how to navigate the financial pressures of modern event planning and leave equipped with strategies to enhance your budgeting and negotiation skills.

Moderator: Meaghan Rhame, Director of Education, Texas Self Storage Association

Justin Cheshire, Business Development, Cheshire AV

Earla Jones, Events Director, Conference Business, Exhibits and Meetings, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses

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Mentor/Mentee Relationships: Creating and Cultivating

Session Description Coming Soon

Tim Hopkins, Managing Director, McKinley Advisors

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7 Simple Habits of Inclusive Leaders

Session Description and Speaker Information Coming Soon

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Lunch on the Show Floor

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm

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20-Minute Exhibitor Talks on the Show Floor (3 total)

1:30 pm - 2:30 pm

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AM2 Concurrent Educational Sessions

1:30 pm - 2:30 pm

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Exhibitor AI

Session Description and Speaker Information Coming Soon

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Price Pressures: Overcoming Challenges in Event Cost Management - Part 2

In today's ever-evolving event landscape, conference organizers face increasing price pressures in all facets of event planning. Join us for a 2-part panel discussion where industry experts will delve into the complexities of managing costs without compromising on quality.

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Part two will focus on events held at hotels. Planning events can present unique financial challenges, with rising costs and complex pricing structures impacting your budget.  Join us for a dynamic panel discussion focused on navigating these price pressures and discovering cost saving solutions.

Barry Schieferstein, Chief Operating Officer, American Society for Nondestructive Testing

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The Data Surrounding Attendee Intent and Behavior

Session Description Coming Soon

Brooke Wilson Falcone, Account Manager, 360 Live Media

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BURNOUT!

Session Description Coming Soon

Moderator: Steven Stout, Executive Director, Texas Society of Association Executives

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Dedicate Expo Time and Prize Drawings

2:30 pm - 4:00 pm

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Happy Hour in the Exhibit Hall

4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

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