IFAI Expo 2015: Let’s talk

Some of the most interesting conversations I have with people in our industry occur after I ask them to tell me about a connection that changed their business, or their jobs. Their stories are always interesting and informative, and I am often amazed to see how delighted they are because of a connection they made or a product they saw at IFAI Expo. The next opportunity is coming soon: new connections, sources, collaborations, the latest technologies, operating tips and industry insights are all part of IFAI Expo, to be held Oct. 6–9 in Anaheim.

IFAI Expo is a unique marketplace for specialty fabrics; it’s also the dominant marketplace for shade and weather protection products, equipment and applications. And it is the fastest growing marketplace for advanced textiles and applications. More than 350 exhibitors and 5,000 attendees will gather in the marketplaces Expo creates, with exciting new exhibits and educational opportunities featured.

The show preview in the September 2015 print issue lists our exhibitors and the products they will showcase, as well as the schedule of events and descriptions of the education programs being offered, designed to complement the marketplaces represented on the show floor.

This year’s Advanced Textiles Conference, including the Testing 101 course and a show floor testing booth, will demonstrate valuable test methods and equipment. (Be sure to visit the NASA booth and learn about the latest textiles used in the space suit on exhibit.) Specialty fabrics programming will cover awnings and shade sails, fabric architecture and marine fabrication, as well as fabrics used in the entertainment industry. A special display on the show floor will showcase disaster mitigation and response products.

New this year: “Campfire Sessions,” 30-minute mini-educational sessions to give attendees quick, immediate information on topics such as contracting with the military, smart fabrics, social media marketing and Textiles 101. The Fabric Sourcing Center will help you choose the perfect material to fit your specific needs. You’ll see in person the newest fabrics, equipment, hardware, software and accessories to boost productivity and profits. It’s face-to-face communication that gets the job done.

On Thursday, Oct. 8, don’t miss Expo keynote speaker Erik Weihenmayer, with his powerful message of overcoming adversity in work and everyday life. Despite his blindness, Erik is an athlete who has completed incredible feats, including kayaking the Grand Canyon and climbing Mt. Everest and the highest mountains on all continents. (He’s also a featured source in our August article “Not too hot, not too cold.”)

On top of it all: unlimited networking opportunities to make those all-important connections. Join us at IFAI Expo and connect with the people and products of your industry—and make a connection that will have that transformative effect on your business or career. Register today!

I look forward to seeing you in Anaheim!