Networking opportunities available at IBEX 2017

IBEX is about connecting the industry, and there are several networking opportunities at the 27th International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference, Sept.19-21 at the Tampa Convention Center, Tampa, Fla.

Boatbuilding professionals from around the world have already registered to attend IBEX, which will offer several exhibit areas with new products and services, product demonstrations, as well as a happy hour and the annual opening night party. 

“I’m excited about the increase in the number of parties on the schedule, in addition to our own networking events. There’s more going on this year than I’ve seen in a long time,” said Anne Dunbar, show director.  “We highly encourage our attendees and exhibitors to visit our events page and make plans to attend the networking opportunities.” 

Marking the beginning of the week’s events, marine industry colleagues will gather at the IBEX Industry Breakfast with keynote speaker Jim Craig on Tuesday, Sept. 19 from 7:30-9:30 a.m. at the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel, across the street from the Tampa Convention Center. Craig is best known for “the Miracle on Ice” victory at the 1980 Olympics. Winning teamwork allowed Jim and the 1980 Olympic Hockey team to achieve “the impossible,” and he will share with the IBEX audience those same principles, which can lead to business success. Thom Dammrich, NMMA president, will present the State of the Industry, and important trade awards will be given out, including the prestigious IBEX Innovation Awards.

On Tuesday evening from 4-6 p.m., IBEX invites all attendees to the happy hour in the Beer Garden, located in the Marina & Yard Pavilion. After happy hour, everyone should plan to attend the opening night party in the Sail Pavilion & Beer Garden, from 6-8 p.m. to enjoy drink specials, live entertainment and food trucks.

On Wednesday, Sept. 20 the American Boat & Yacht Council will host the annual Coffee and Compliance networking event where attendees can meet with experts in marine certification and standards for informal networking to discuss current trends and compliance issues affecting the industry. Exhibitors are invited from 9-10 a.m.; all attendees are welcome from 10-11 a.m. For additional information, contact Shannon Seipp at sseipp@abycinc.org.

For live product presentations of new products, The IBEX Product Pitches in the Tech Talk Theater on Wednesday from 11-12 p.m. The presenting exhibitors will pitch their products, selected by industry journalists, for two minutes, followed by a one-minute Q&A follow-up for press and buyers. Member of the media and marine industry buyers, as well as distributors, wholesalers, purchasing agents and manufacturer representatives will benefit from this efficient one-hour opportunity to preview and experience some of the new offerings on display at IBEX. 

Millennials in the industry will benefit from the Marine Millennials Speed Networking events on Tuesday and Wednesday, from 2-3 p.m. The Marine Millennials are dedicated group of the next generation of marine professionals.

To register for IBEX 2017, click here. To learn more about the events at IBEX, see the Schedule of Events or review the Exhibitor List, visit IBEXShow.com.

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