SMC³ Assembles Economic, Industry and Legal Experts to Address Concerns, Provide Actionable Solutions at Vegas Conference
Business updates, education and peer networking more important than ever, says association
Atlanta, Ga. - April 14, 2009—SMC³, a transportation industry association representing motor carriers, shippers and logistics service providers, formally announces the agenda and speaker line-up for its 2009 Summer Conference. The conference, entitled, "Fwd: Momentum. Supply Chain's Look Ahead," is scheduled to take place Jun. 24-26 at the Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort in Henderson, Nev., and is part of SMC³'s enduring commitment to provide top-quality educational and networking forums for anyone involved in supply chain planning and execution.
"In supply chain management, cost containment and operational efficiency are imperatives to overall business success," Jack E. Middleton, SMC³ president and CEO, said. "Those who shoulder this responsibility owe it to themselves and their organization to examine and apply best business practices—information they can only get through ongoing industry education and peer networking."
At the SMC³ 2009 Summer Conference, experts in global economics and industry legislation will detail the latest trends and provide their outlook for the remainder of 2009 as well as first quarter 2010. Transportation industry analyst David Ross of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company will take an in-depth look at the operational challenges transportation professionals are facing today and how these challenges will impact shipping costs as well as carrier profit margins. Accomplished transportation attorney John Bagileo will highlight the information shippers, carriers and intermediaries need to maintain alignment between their business processes and state and federal legal requirements. Economic and energy research firm founder Roger Bezdek, Ph.D. will explain how global warming legislation and "cap-and-trade" programs could impact the supply chain. And renowned economist, Donald Ratajczak, Ph.D., will discuss the economic trends and indices he is following closely and share his unique point-of-view as the global marketplace continues its correction.
The conference's educational sessions will feature real-world case study presentations and success stories in transportation management, strategic freight bidding and supply chain technology implementation. Scheduled presenters include senior investment strategist Alan Gayle, who will provide a practical action framework for executives to respond to the U.S. Government's initiatives to foster economic growth and stabilize the financial markets; Ken Burroughs of UPS Freight, Art Nourot of Unyson Logistics and industry consultant Dan Goodwill, who will present a step-by-step guide to optimizing transportation spending through best-practices RFPs; and ATA chief economist Bob Costello, who will join a panel of business leaders from key industry sectors as they share how the current economy has impacted their business segment and how they are modifying their year-end business plans.
The SMC³ Summer Conference, which has occurred annually for more than 50 years, is not only recognized for its timely content but also for the many business networking opportunities it provides. Throughout the event, attendees can take advantage of receptions, meals and other specially planned social functions to have face-to-face conversations that stimulate new ideas.
"When I am in a room with my peers, some I have known for years and some I am getting to know for the first time, I realize how amazing it is to work in an industry where all the players—shippers, carriers, 3PLs, consultants, etcetera—can come together and share their unique knowledge and perspective" added Middleton.
"This is a great conference for all levels of an organization. It provides an excellent blend of 'macro' information combined with an infusion of industry-specific information," said David Giblin of Amstan Logistics, who has attended the past two SMC³ Summer Conferences.
Thomas Polidoro, logistics VP for Barrett Outdoor Living, has attended five of the last seven SMC³ Conferences: "[The SMC³ Conferences present] the most-timely issues with the most knowledgeable industry experts to let you know what's really happening," he said.
The SMC³ 2009 Summer Conference features registration pricing that represents the industry's highest return value, plus a low attendee room rate of $199 per night. For complete conference information and to register to attend, go to www.smc3.com, phone 800-845-8090 or e-mail info@smc3.com.