*UPDATE* This article was originally published on 8 October, prior to Hurrican Milton making landfall. In the aftermath of the storm, we have received official confirmation that the show will go on as planned. We received the following statement from NALMCO:
Dear colleagues,
According to the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Milton moved offshore early this morning and has now exited the state of Florida. While we realize that much of the state is recovering from the aftermath of this powerful storm we are happy to hear that Orlando was not drastically affected. We have had NALMCO board members on site at the Omni ChampionsGate since Tuesday and the hotel is in full operation. The hotel never lost power, water or internet. The FAA is estimating that the Orlando airport will reopen at 6:00 p.m. EDT today. In addition, Walt Disney World posted on its website that it is preparing to reopen its four theme parks, and Disney Springs on Friday.
Taking all of this into consideration, NALMCO’s 71st Convention and Trade Show will proceed as planned, including pre-conference trainings that are being offered Friday-Sunday, and the Convention iteslf which kicks off on Sunday, October 13th.
Please contact [email protected] with any questions or concerns.
We look forward to seeing you soon,
NALMCO Staff
EdisonReport has confirmed that the 71st NALMCO Annual Convention & Trade Show in Orlando will proceed as planned. The convention is set to take place at the Omni Orlando Resort in Championsgate, Florida, from Saturday, 12 October, to Wednesday, 16 October. NALMCO staff and leadership are closely monitoring Hurricane Milton throughout the week and will collaborate with on-site experts at the hotel to ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees.
This year’s conference will address current industry challenges and advancements, featuring discussions on three key topics.
Key Topics of Discussion
Leveraging Virtual Selling
Mark Jewell, President of Selling Energy, will lead a session focused on virtual selling techniques. As the business landscape evolves, mastering both synchronous and asynchronous selling methods is increasingly vital. Jewell will stress the importance of sales professionals being camera-ready and proficient with video conferencing tools. He will also explore how to effectively highlight the financial and non-financial benefits of LED retrofits, particularly as market conditions change and incentives become less prevalent.
Setting Goals for Success
Kyle McClelland, President of Have Lights Will Travel, will present strategies for effective goal setting. His session aims to equip attendees with the skills to identify realistic success markers and ensure team alignment with these objectives. McClelland’s insights will help participants assess their current positions, define desired outcomes, and create actionable plans for the coming year.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence
A significant session will delve into artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for the lighting industry. This discussion will address both the advantages and potential risks associated with AI. Attendees will learn how to utilize AI tools for improved productivity while recognizing their limitations, particularly in generating reliable content. The session will also highlight how AI is currently being applied in lighting design and management, paving the way for more efficient practices.
Networking and Collaboration
Beyond these informative sessions, the NALMCO Conference will offer numerous networking opportunities. Participants will connect with industry peers, exchange best practices, and discover the latest innovations at the trade show. With exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge products and solutions, attendees can gain valuable insights to enhance their businesses.
Addressing Hurricane Milton’s Impact
The NALMCO Convention will proceed in spite of Hurricane Milton. As the conference draws nearer, organizers remain attentive to the challenges posed by Hurricane Milton. NALMCO staff and leadership will continue to monitor weather conditions throughout the week, ensuring the safety and success of the event.
Read the recap of the 2023 convention, here.