As we gear up for 2024, a plethora of conventions, conferences and industry meetings —nearly 400 of them, in fact —are on the horizon. Of course, that begs the question: how do you choose which ones to attend?
In a landscape teeming with options, it’s crucial to make informed choices that further your goals and aspirations. Are you curious about the latest innovations in products and procedures? Are you eager to absorb knowledge from industry speakers? Or do you simply want to network with peers?
Regardless of your motivations, attending the right event can be a game-changer, and just like a scratch-off lottery ticket, you would prefer to know if it’s a winner before taking the plunge. With that in mind, here are some questions to ponder:
What are your objectives? Are you a distributor looking to make connections and learn about industry trends? The LBM Advantage 2024 Annual Buying Show in Orlando, Fla. (February 20 – 22) might be a good choice.
Is the event relevant? You may already know that the annual Design-Build Conference & Expo, held this year in Dallas, Texas, (November 6 – 8) is the biggest design-build conference in the US, but it’s important to look at the agenda to make sure the information presented will help to further your professional needs.
Who are the speakers? Are they industry experts and thought leaders? Engaging with knowledgeable presenters can significantly enhance your learning experience. The International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas, Nev. (February 27 – 29) has the widest variety of sessions to choose from, so chances are you will find a presenter there that can speak to your needs.
What are the networking opportunities? Will you have the chance to connect with peers, potential collaborators, or mentors? Building relationships in the industry can be as valuable as the event’s content. Shows like World of Modular, which will be held in Orlando, Fla. (March 18 – 21) are a great opportunity to make new friends in the relocatable modular industry.
Will there be anything unique? Hands-on, interactive sessions are a great way to learn and engage with others. As an example, the Advancing Prefabrication conference in Denver, Colo., (February 26 – 29) is a great place to pick up new tricks of the trade.
This is just a small sample of the events that are happening in 2024 and I suggest that you don’t limit yourself to a single one but instead consider attending a mix of them throughout the year. Ultimately, attending the right events can be a transformative experience, enriching your knowledge, expanding your network and propelling your career to new heights.
