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Industrial Supply magazine recently sat down with Brendan Breen, CEO of Industrial Supply Association (ISA), to explore the innovative approach ISA24 is taking to reshape networking experiences within the industrial supply channel. We talked about the unique features and exciting highlights of ISA’s much-anticipated 2024 conference coming up April 15.
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Industrial Supply: ISA24 has been making waves in the industry for its fresh take on networking. What can attendees expect from the conference this spring?
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Brendan Breen: ISA24 is all about breaking the mold. We’ve put in a lot of time and effort crafting an experience that goes beyond traditional networking seen at other events. Attendees can anticipate a blend of ways to interact and do business through interactive activities, collaborative sessions, and fun, unexpected engagement points throughout the event, creating a sense of connection and enjoyment.
Industrial Supply: Tell us an example of how the networking program sets this event apart from others.
Breen: One key element is our commitment to personalized connections in varying formats while keeping things fun, lively, and fresh. We aim to provide attendees with different opportunities to connect on a meaningful level in both long and short formats.
For example, we have a three-hour opening party at the NASCAR Hall of Fame that includes a head-to-head pit crew challenge, race car simulators, and a broadcasting experience. Our golf outing provides hours of networking and is a great way to get one-on-one time with industry leaders. Our expanded Exhibit Hall includes a Networking Lounge built for spontaneous conversations and a fun 6-car racetrack activity.
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Every aspect of ISA24 has been crafted with our members and the industry in mind. Our goal is to make ISA’s annual convention not just a hub for business but the highlight of every attendee’s calendar.
Industrial Supply: It sounds like ISA24 is pushing the boundaries of what a conference can offer. How do these unique networking experiences tie into ISA’s broader vision for the industry?
Breen: At ISA, we believe that meaningful connections are the backbone of a thriving industry. By creating an environment where networking is not just a formality but a genuine and enjoyable experience, we’re contributing to the growth and vibrancy of the entire industrial supply channel.
Industrial Supply: Looks like ISA24 has a robust educational component. What are some highlights?
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Breen: ISA24 is dedicated to delivering valuable insights and strategies. Our mainstage keynotes feature Jim Craig, the legendary 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Gold Medalist, and Alan Beaulieu, president of ITR Economics. Jim will inspire with his session on inspiration and teamwork, while Alan provides clarity and confidence in navigating the economic landscape.
Our partnerships with MDM SHIFT and DSG’s Applied AI for Distribution amplify the educational experience, distilling sessions on crucial topics like AI’s impact on our industry, innovative sales strategies, and cultivating a workplace culture. It’s an educational lineup designed to empower and propel our industry forward.
Industrial Supply: Last, the ISA conference always distinguishes itself by bringing together all players within the industrial supply channel. That’s kind of unique, isn’t it?
Breen: Unlike other events that focus on specific subsets of the industry, our annual conference is for the entire industry. It’s an inclusive event – for all industrial manufacturers, distributors, IMRs, and service providers – that’s designed to amplify and strengthen our entire channel while fostering a sense of collective success. ISA has been doing this for over 120 years and will continue to bring the channel together for another 120 years!
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| istockphoto.com | General Session |
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This article originally appeared in the March/April 2024 issue of Industrial Supply magazine. Copyright 2024, Direct Business Media.
INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY MAGAZINE
The November/December issue of Industrial Supply magazine features an in-depth cover story about Kimball Midwest. Plus, we're featuring articles by contributing writers Dirk Beveridge, Frank Hurtte, and Mike Marks, as well as interviews with numerous product and distribution industry experts.
