2019 NSSGA Annual Convention to cover key industry issues

By |  January 24, 2019

In addition to AGG1 Aggregates Academy & Expo, Indianapolis plays host this February to the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association’s (NSSGA) Annual Convention.

The JW Marriott, situated near the White River in downtown Indianapolis, is the location of this year’s convention. Photo: iStock.com/ Joel Carillet

The JW Marriott, situated near the White River in downtown Indianapolis, is the location of this year’s convention. Photo: iStock.com/Joel Carillet

The convention, which takes place Feb. 10-13 at the JW Marriott Indianapolis, traditionally draws hundreds of aggregate industry professionals each year. Attendees hear about issues affecting their businesses and learn about the association’s latest advocacy efforts in Washington.

The NSSGA Annual Convention also presents great opportunities to network, with breakfasts, luncheons and receptions scheduled throughout the course of the event.

Featured speakers

NSSGA is bringing in some unique speakers for this year’s convention, including Byron Reese, CEO and publisher of Gigaom, a technology research company that helps business leaders understand the implications of emerging technologies and their impact on business, media and society.

Reese, who produces and hosts Gigaom podcasts such as “Voice in AI” and “The AI Minute,” will address attendees at the Opening General Session the morning of Feb. 11.

The Closing General Session features a speaker from outside the industry, as well. Rich Karlgaard, publisher of Forbes magazine, typically advises his audiences on how to harness an organization’s disruptive spirits to maximize business opportunities in the global marketplace.

As an expert in AI, blockchain and the internet of things, Karlgaard is a regular panelist on Fox News’ “Forbes on Fox.” He will address the NSSGA Annual Convention the morning of Feb. 12.

Just for fun

The convention offers a slew of other activities, as well. NSSGA organized a midday tour of the DigIndy Tunnel System on Feb. 11. The system is a 28-mile-long network of 18-ft.-diameter deep rock tunnels being built 250 ft. beneath the city. The paid tour is limited to the first 50 registrants.

Other fun optional activities this year are an Indianapolis beer tasting Feb. 10, a hot tea experience Feb. 11, and a sports tour of the city Feb. 12. The sports tour includes a private tour of Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts, as well as a stop at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and a cruise by Banker’s Life Fieldhouse, where the Indiana Pacers play.

Other Indy meetings

The NSSGA Annual Convention won’t be the only industry meeting to take place in Indianapolis in mid-February. The Indiana Mineral Aggregates Association (IMAA) will also have its Winter Meeting at the JW Marriott on Feb. 11, and NSSGA anticipates between 250 and 400 IMAA members to be in town.

“In addition, we are excited that the National Industrial Sand Association has become a new division within NSSGA,” says Pamala Bouchard, vice president of membership and meetings at NSSGA. “Their board will meet in Indiana, as well.”

Kevin Yanik

About the Author:

Kevin Yanik is editor-in-chief of Pit & Quarry. He can be reached at 216-706-3724 or kyanik@northcoastmedia.net.

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