Winners to be Announced During Event October 9-11 in Washington, D.C.

NEW YORK, Aug. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Broadband Nation Expo today announces the finalists for the Broadband Nation Awards program, which celebrates outstanding achievements in solutions, programs, use cases, technology, and individual contributions across the broadband sector. The event and the awards program have been created in collaboration with Fierce Network (formerly Fierce Telecom, the telecommunications industry’s daily monitor) and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), the trusted industry association for the connected world.

Alejandro Piñero, Senior Director, Broadband, Fierce Network said, “We were blown away by the innovation and creativity of the programs redefining broadband throughout the United States. The finalists feature the best of the best in the industry and we look forward to see who comes out on top in October.”

The awards program finalists include:

Best Broadband & Data mapping solution or Initiative

Federated Wireless: Federated Wireless Adaptive Network PlannerVCTI: Fiber IQ ™Wireless 2020: Wireless 20/20 WiROI™ db Geospatial SaaS Platform

Best Converged Solution – Cable & Connectivity

Calix: Calix DOCSIS Provisioning Connector (DPx)Comarch: Comarch Telco SuiteCorning Optical Communications: Corning Multifiber Pushlok® Technology

Best Municipal or Public Connectivity Program

Montgomery County, MD: Montgomery County’s Broadband Services to the CommunityCity of Longmont – NextLight: NextLight® municipal internet serviceCity of Pharr, TX: Pharr Connect by City of Pharr, TXWashington County Authority: Washington County Comprehensive Broadband Initiative

Enabling Connectivity – Middle Mile Award

Connected Nation Internet Exchange Points: Carrier Neutral Internet Exchange Points – Wichita State UniversityFiberLight, LLC: FiberLight’s Middle Mile InfrastructureFujitsu Network Communications: Illinois Century Network (ICN)Zayo: Zayo Middle Mile Initiative

Excellence in FTTH Deployment

Harmonic: DOCOMO PACIFIC and Harmonic Bring Fiber Connectivity to GuamGFiber: GFiber Labs’s 20 Gig + Wi-Fi 7WOW! Internet, TV, & Phone: WOW! fiber InternetZiply Fiber: Ziply Fiber Innovates FTTH in 2023-24: From New Construction Methods to Building America’s Fastest Home Internet

Excellence in Urban, Open or Neutral Host Connectivity Deployment

Corning Optical Communications: Corning’s Everon® 5G Enterprise Radio Access Network (ERAN)RtBrick: FullStackBrain to Fingers for InCoax: InCoax Access A251 Network Termination Modem

Impact Award – Greatest Technical achievement in connecting the unconnected (Individual)

Joe Hickey, President, PomeGranJoe Webster, Chief Broadband Officer, Montgomery County, MDLucas Turpin, Executive Director Digital Extension and Inclusion, Oregon State University

Outstanding Efforts in Driving Broadband Workforce Development

The Fiber School; Broadband TrainingCorning Optical Communications: Corning’s Fiber Broadband Technician (CFBT) course through See the Light®Arizona Western College: Reetika Dhawan – Chief Executive Officer of Entrepreneurial College & Vice President of Workforce & HealthcareVermont Community Broadband Board: Vermont Community Broadband Board Workforce Development Plan

Regional Carrier of the Year (Wireless & Wireline)

Blue Stream Fiber: Blue Stream FiberTombigbee Fiber: Calix SmartLife Managed ServicesMidwest Energy & Communications: Midwest Energy & Communications rural fiber internet

All of the submissions were reviewed and voted on by an independent panel of judges.

Winners will be announced during Broadband Nation Expo, which takes place October 9-11 in Washington, D.C. Broadband Nation Expo unites broadband service providers and industry partners with academic, local, state and federal government leaders in a unique venue that will focus on solving complex broadband-related issues such as closing the labor shortage gap and bridging the digital divide once and for all. Register to attend here.

For Broadband Nation Expo sponsorship opportunities, contact Scott Gruntorad at [email protected]. 

Stay connected with Broadband Expo Nation on X and LinkedIn.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Charlene Soucy
Broadband Nation Awards
[email protected]

NEW YORK, Aug. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Caribbean & Mexico Meeting and Incentive Travel Exchange (CMITE), organized by Questex, presented its annual event for the first time in the Lesser Antilles, on the beautiful island of Anguilla. Held in partnership with the Anguilla Tourist Board at the stunning Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, CMITE brought together North American meeting planners and incentive buyers from corporate direct, third party, and incentive houses with Caribbean and Mexico-based travel suppliers for two and a half days of unparalleled networking that included up to 20 one-to-one private appointments, receptions, discovery, and culture.

“Hosting CMITE at the Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club was a game-changer for this event and they proved to be an excellent partner for CMITE,” said Jill Birkett, VP, Questex Travel. “Their team, combined with the Anguilla Tourist Board, presented Anguilla as a premier destination for the MICE community and we could not be happier.”

The event kicked off with a surprise visit from Anguilla’s Premier, the Honorable Ellis L. Webster, as well as a welcome address from the Minister of Tourism & Infrastructure, the Honorable Haydn Hughes, and the Director of Tourism, Stacey Liburd, Anguilla Tourist Board, before attendees headed into a full day of one-to-one appointments in private rooms.

Each evening, guests were treated to incredible receptions, two of which were presented by the host hotel, the Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, which featured a warm welcome from owner Richard Schultze at the Opening Night Reception, and a major wow-factor night-sky drone show, which was sponsored by Sunlinc, at the Closing Reception. The second night reception was hosted at the sophisticated Malliouhana Anguilla, inclusive of many exotic libations, fares and music.

All guests also enjoyed a day at Da’Vida Beach Club for lunch, sun, and fun, sponsored by the Anguilla Tourist Board.

“Super impressed,” said Patrick Halpin, vice president global sales, HPN Global. “This was my first time attending CMITE and I found it to be a great use of my time. The suppliers were exactly who I wanted and needed to meet with, and I made some great connections. The CMITE team did a great job throughout the program, and I would recommend attending another one of their events in the future.”

“CMITE surpassed my expectations,” said Carlin Richardson, destination & event specialist, Blue Sea Anguilla. “The open conversations with buyers were quite inciteful. Networking with other attendees was refreshing and for Anguilla to be chosen as the country to host this year’s CMITE was truly amazing.”

Guests enjoyed the unique experience CMITE brings and are anxious to rebook for next year, which will take place in August 2025 at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, Nassau, Bahamas. Those interested in becoming a supplier should click here. Those interested in applying to be a fully hosted buyer can contact Andrea Hutchinson, Industry Relations Director, Questex at [email protected].

CMITE sponsors included the Anguilla Tourist Board, Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, Malliouhana Anguilla, Blue Sea Anguilla, Sunlinc, SITE and MPI.

To learn more about CMITE visit www.cmiteevent.com. Stay connected on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

About Questex

Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality, and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

Media Contact:
Carrie Harper
Marketing Manager
[email protected]

NEW YORK, Aug. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex, a leading information services and event company, today announces it has been recognized for content excellence by the Folio: Eddie & Ozzie Awards program with 14 finalist nominations. The Awards are the most prestigious recognition for excellence in editorial content and design media/publishing industry.

“Content is the foundation of our business. Our deep industry knowledge drives our communities and our live events including one on one, conferences and tradeshows to deliver our audiences and attendees with the information they need to grow their businesses,” said Paul Miller, CEO, Questex. “We have an extremely talented content team and it is an honor to be recognized as a finalist in the Folio: Eddie & Ozzie Awards.”

The finalist entries include:

Bar & Restaurant News

Ashley Bray (Range of Work by a Single Author: B2B)How to Build a Menu Series (Series of Articles: B2B: Food & Beverage)Loud & Proud: Bar and Restaurant Operators Celebrate Pride Month, Offer Tips for June and Beyond (Single Article: B2B: Culture/Community)

Fierce Biotech

No reprieve for biopharma layoffs in Q1: Fierce Biotech analysis (Analysis: B2B)Women left out of VC club fight for their identity, pulling each other up one by one (Single Article: B2B: Healthcare/Medical/Nursing)

Fierce Network

Broadcom’s no good, very messy VMware acquisition (News Coverage: Digital, Print or Video)Fierce Network’s 2024 Mobile World Congress coverage (Planned or On Location Coverage)Lunch Ladies serve up cloud news (Podcast: Computer Science or Technology)Google Cloud’s CTO pulls back the curtain (Profile or Q&A: B2B)Range of Work by a Single Author: Diana Goovaerts (Range of Work by a Single Author: B2B)Broadband affordability hangs in the balance (Series of Articles: B2B: Technology)

Fierce Pharma

The Fierce 50 of 2023 (Profile or Q&A: B2B)

Hotel Management

Hotel Management Rebrand (Full Issue: B2B: Overall)

Live Design

Live Design: Sphere Las Vegas & U2 Editorial Coverage (Series of Articles: B2B: Technology)

To learn more about Questex, visit questex.com. 

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Kate Spellman
Chief Marketing Officer
Questex
[email protected]        
212 895 8488‬

LDI takes place December 8-10, 2024 in Las Vegas, NV, with pro training starting on December 4

NEW YORK, Aug. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Live Design International (LDI), which unites the global entertainment design and technology communities, today unveils the 2024 professional training program. The program offers seven days of unparalleled professional development through LDInstitute™ courses, keynotes and LDInnovation™ Conference sessions. LDI takes place December 8-10, 2024, at the West Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV, with professional training starting December 4. Register here.

“As part of our longstanding commitment to the live events design and technology communities, we have curated an outstanding training program to help industry professionals gain the insights they need to complete their jobs successfully today as well as a glimpse into what’s in store in the future,” said Jessi Cybulski, LDI Show Director. 

The LDI Professional Training Program features over 150 speakers and A-list industry experts providing courses, keynotes, and conference sessions for the live events design and technology ecosystem. The program includes:

The LDInstitute is the most comprehensive professional training program in the industry. The 2024 program will be the largest in the event’s 36-year history with 75 courses ranging from hands-on software, lighting console, and media server training to rigging, electrical, automation, and laser safety.Keynote addresses featuring industry thought leaders, including Thibaut Duverneix of Gentilhomme, Sharon Huizinga of Rock Lititz, Emily Malone of Disguise, and light artist & experiential designer Craig Winslow.The LDInnovation Conference offers over 100 sessions over three days. The 30-, 60- and 90-minute sessions cover topics such as Design & Technology, Architectural Lighting, Houses of Worship, Stage & Event Management, and Women in Lighting.XLIVExLDI is two days of sessions featuring a curated look at things to come, including explorations of generative AI, volumetric capture/photogrammetry, and other innovations at the edge of the industry.NEW: RIGZ is an in-depth two-day rigging intensive for the entertainment rigging industry, featuring expert riggers sharing their knowledge and techniques.

Other event highlights:

Foster The Future is designed for young career professionals under the age of 25 and fosters diversity and growth through scholarships and development programs.Behind The Scenes Wellness Lounge is an alcohol-free environment where attendees have opportunities to talk one-on-one with the presenters and ask questions about nutrition, sleep, mindfulness, physical health, and mental health.Over 300 exhibitors showcase cutting-edge technologies in the Exhibit Hall, which is co-located with Digital Signage Experience (DSE).Backstage Las Vegas, a full-day insider’s tour of Vegas venues, includes the iconic Sphere.Networking events allow attendees to forge new connections and engage in industry discourse across multiple forums. Enjoy a wide range of special events, lunches, and other networking opportunities including LDI After Dark and Dining with Dinosaurs, presented by Geezers of Gear.

The LDI professional training program takes place December 4-10 with the Expo taking place December 8-10 at the West Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV. Register here.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Kelly Tuner, Director of Sales, at [email protected].

About Live Design International (LDI)
Established in 1988, Live Design International (LDI) is built on a 36-year history as the essential trade show and conference for global live design professionals. Attendees come to LDI to see the latest gear and entertainment technology in action, covering audio, lighting, projection, video, staging, special effects, and XR. It is also a great opportunity to refresh knowledge and professional training, in addition to networking and finding inspiration from colleagues, manufacturers, and distributors at the vanguard of entertainment technology. For more information, visit http://www.ldishow.com/. LDI will take place December 4 – 10, 2024, at the West Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality, and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Charlene Soucy
LDI
[email protected]

Keynote to Explore the Omni-Channel Experience in QSR and Beyond

NEW YORK, Aug. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Digital Signage Experience (DSE), the preeminent event and digital platform for the digital signage industry, today announces Taco Bell Chief Digital & Technology Officer Dane Mathews will present a keynote at DSE on December 8 titled “Innovating Experience: Taking a Bold Approach to Customer Connection in QSR and Beyond.”

He will explore the evolution of breakthrough omni-channel experiences centered around driving customer loyalty and brand engagement. Additionally, he will share how Taco Bell is leveraging its innovative spirit to reimagine how technology is used within their restaurants and beyond and how to harness the power of collaboration to develop a new breed of restaurant experiences.

At Taco Bell, Mathews leads enterprise digital CX & technology strategy including experience strategy & design, loyalty, customer relationship management (CRM), commerce, data analytics/automation, and foundational technologies. His team leverages Taco Bell’s cultural & brand leadership capabilities to deliver holistic, powerful experiences that create lasting connections with consumers and team members. In addition, Mathews leads Taco Bell’s digital transformation leveraging agile approaches and automation to accelerate Taco Bell’s enterprise growth agenda.

“We’re thrilled that Dane Mathews is joining the DSE 2024 program,” said David Drain, Director, Event Programs, DSE. “We’ve been following Taco Bell’s transformation and their approach to driving engagement through innovation. This presentation will be a fascinating look at how technology and omnichannel execution is changing everything.”

“At Taco Bell, innovation is ingrained in our DNA,” said Dane Mathews, Chief Digital & Technology Officer, Taco Bell. “I’m looking forward to exploring how the brand reimagines technology to improve and evolve the consumer and team member experience, driving loyalty and brand engagement.”

DSE takes place December 7-10, 2024, in Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Early bird registration ends August 19. Learn more and register at https://www.digitalsignageexperience.com.

DSE is co-located with Live Design International (LDI), which unites the global entertainment design and technology communities. Learn more here.

For sponsor and exhibitor inquiries, get in touch.

Stay connected to DSE on LinkedIn, Facebook and X.

About Digital Signage Experience (DSE)

Digital Signage Experience (DSE) is the preeminent event and digital platform for the digital signage industry, showcasing innovations in technology, market applications and creative educational content. With an increased focus on reaching key end-user markets for digital solutions and experiences, DSE will harness other audiences and platforms in hotels, hospitality, travel, healthcare, entertainment, education, sensors and communications technology and more. DSE takes place December 7-10, 2024 in Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

About Questex

Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

Media Contact

Sonal Patel

Digital Signage Experience (DSE)

[email protected]

NEW YORK, Aug. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conference (IECSC) Florida, the most influential gathering of spa and wellness professionals in the Southeast, and presented by American Spa, unveiled its conference program today, which includes 34 curated conference classes and 60 exhibitor-led product focused education sessions that total over 85 hours of content. The event will be held at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, October 13-14, 2024.

“This industry continues to change at lightning speed, and we want to make sure we’re curating content that keeps our audience ahead of the curve, while still addressing the day-to-day needs of their businesses,” said Elizabeth Fantetti Trevorrow, Event & Partnerships Director, Beauty & Spa for Questex. “More than 60% of our educators are new to the IECSC conference program, bringing with them the latest technology and the most innovative ideas to help spa professionals at any level grow their businesses.”

The conference program addresses trending topics around comprehensive wellness including gut health, hormone care and lymphatic drainage, in addition to skills-based workshops related to treating melanated skin, chemical peels and brow enhancements. Other programs include new ways to increase ticket prices, how to diversify menu offering, classes on waxing, IV therapies and lashes. All of these sessions and more fall under the following tracks: Business Management, Client Relationships & Retail Growth, Esthetics, Holistic Health & Wellness, Makeup and Beauty enhancements, Medical Spa & Spa Technology and Social Media & Marketing.

Featured conference classes:

Forward-thinking Chemical Peels for Melanated Skin, Alyna Velez, Advanced Aesthetics Instructor, Spectrum Advanced AestheticsHormones & Clinical Skincare, Courtney Sykes, Chief Admin Officer, Southeastern Esthetics InstituteMembership Matters | How to Maximize Membership Programs, Patti Biro, Owner, Patti Biro & Associates and Amanda Howard, Attorney, Healthcare Business Law FirmNourishing Beauty: The Brain-Gut-Skin Axis in Esthetics and Skin Treatments, Dr. Arlene Strugar, Founder & Research Scientist, Healuxe Skin Pure Holistic SpaMaster the Art of Sales: A Workshop for Non-Salespeople, Suzanne Rich, CEO, Lady Rich WellnessGua Sha Your Way to Gorgeous: Holistic Face Sculpting Techniques, Dr. Alissa de Jongh, Professor of Facial Esthetics, Houston Community College

View full curated conference schedule here.

Noteworthy speakers presenting include:

Savanna Boda – Med Spa Owner, Savanna Boda Aesthetics Licensed medical Aesthetician and acne specialist based in Dallas, Texas with a cult following of 363,000 on InstagramBack by popular demand, following a sold-out class at IECSC Florida 2023 Pamela R. Springer, LE, LEI, CLT, SME – CEO, Global Skin Solutions Author and curriculum developer who specializes in skin of color and educating the medical community and licensed practitioners how to provide treatments for diverse skin tones. Dr. Erin Madigan-Fleck NMD,LE, LEI – Naturopathic Physician & Esthetician, Dermaeducationtv.com Extensive academic and practical training in natural health, nutrition, naturopathy, dermatology, and alternative medicine.
Michael Razzano – Medical Aesthetician, Philly Facial Plastic Surgery & Medspa
Acne specialist and social media influencer.Highly requested speaker and social media influencer by 2023 attendees.

View full speaker lineup here.

Each curated conference class requires an additional fee and includes the unlimited, 2-Day Exhibit Hall pass. Attendees who purchase three or more classes will save $25; those who purchase six or more, will save $100.

View the full curated conference schedule here.

Exhibitor Led, Product Focused Education
Since specializing is one way for spa professionals to stay at the top of their game, attendees can also participate in over 50 complimentary exhibitor presentations through the Product Focused Education (PFE) program. Each class offers a deep dive into a specific product or service, giving attendees expert brand knowledge that they can leverage in their businesses. These classes are all included free with the 2-Day Exhibit Hall pass and do not require an additional fee.

View all Product Focused Education here.

The Studio Stage
Located on the Exhibit Hall floor, guests will be treated to an incredible lineup of high-caliber speakers, in-depth demonstrations, and intimate discussions, all included with the Exhibit Hall pass, for no additional fee.

View all Studio Stage presentations here.

Continuing Education
Attendees can take advantage of two free opportunities to earn continuing education hours, courtesy of WU Aesthetics. To claim these benefits, valued at nearly $40, attendees must stop by the WU Aesthetics booth #106.

10-Hour Continuing Education (CE) for Cosmetology Professionals – a $20.99 value. (#0501529)4-Hour Initial HIV/AIDs Continuing Education for Cosmetology Professionals – a $18.99 value. (#0501532)

Make It a Weekend and Take the Brightline – Save 25%
The Palm Beach County Convention Center is located just over a mile away from the exquisite clear waters of beautiful Palm Beach, and directly across the street from Rosemary Square, offering incredible shopping and dining, and the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. Organizers encourage attendees to come early and make it a weekend to experience this gorgeous destination before engaging at the event.

To sweeten the deal, IECSC Florida is offering a 25% discount off Brightline train tickets for convenient transportation from Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando to the West Palm Beach train station located less than a mile from the Convention Center. Click here for hotel and train information.

Register to Attend
IECSC Florida takes place October 13-14 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. Register here. Register as a group of four or more to save $20 off total registration. Conference passes include 2-Day Exhibit Hall access. Media may register to attend here.

For sponsorship and exhibit opportunities, click here.

Upcoming Events
Additional networking and educational opportunities for spa, beauty and wellness professionals will take place as follows:

IBS and IECSC New York, March 23-25, 2025 at the Javits Convention Center in New York City. Visit and ibsnewyork.com and iecscnewyork.com for more information.IBS and IECSC Las Vegas, June 21-23, 2025, West Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada. Ibslasvegas.com and iecsclasvegas.com for more information.

Stay connected with IECSC Florida on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook.

About IECSC
Produced by Questex, the International Esthetics, Cosmetics and Spa Conferences (IECSC) are for professionals only and reach a wide cross‐section of participants from spa and wellness product manufacturers and distributors to spa owners, directors and managers, estheticians, massage therapists, cosmetologists, medical estheticians, and dermatologists. With dynamic trade show floors, in-depth conference programs, and presented by America Spa, IECSC events provide the perfect meeting ground for the world’s most elite and qualified spa professionals looking to meet the top skin, cosmetic and wellness companies.

About Questex 
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here. 

Media Contact
Jennifer Rosen
Marketing Director
[email protected]        

2,000+ industry and government leaders, along with 100+ exhibitors, will convene in Washington, D.C. for largest meeting ground for broadband industry in October

NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Broadband Nation Expo brings service providers, industry partners, and a diverse array of stakeholders including academic institutions, local, state and federal government leaders together to discuss the future of broadband in the U.S. and the concerted effort needed to successfully bridge the digital divide. Broadband Nation Expo has been created in collaboration with Fierce Network (formerly Fierce Telecom, the telecommunications industry’s daily monitor) and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), the trusted industry association for the connected world. The event takes place October 9-11 at the Gaylord Convention Center in Washington, D.C. Register here.   

Kevin Gray, VP & Market Leader at Questex Technology Group, remarked, “Broadband is essential infrastructure for the U.S., influencing every facet of our lives—from commerce and education to health and public safety. This fall, at the Broadband Nation Expo, we’ll delve into the opportunities and challenges of achieving broadband for all. What sets this event apart is its role as a major convergence point for government, industry and academia. It serves as a unifying force, bringing together these key groups to discuss how broadband can be effectively deployed nationwide and accelerated to bridge the digital divide.”

“Fostering a strong workforce is essential to achieving our nation’s mission of internet access for all – so addressing the worker shortage gap is a priority that requires swift and collaborative action from all key stakeholders including government, industry and academia,” said Dave Stehlin, President and CEO, TIA. “The Broadband Nation Expo is the perfect venue to bring together leaders from across these and other key sectors to tackle this challenge head-on. I am thrilled by the growing interest and momentum around this event and eager to continue our vital work in attracting, training and delivering the future workforce that will help finally bridge the digital divide.” 

Conference Program
Broadband Nation Expo will offer a robust conference program that encompasses four tracks catering to the evolving needs of the broadband ecosystem:

Fiber for All Wireless Innovation Connecting Everyone NEW! Workforce Development: As broadband deployments ramp up across the U.S., it is well documented that there is a significant shortage of skilled labor to fulfill planned deployments, with an estimate of more than 200,000 broadband jobs available. This track will include speakers from academic institutions around the country discussing best practices that will serve as guidelines for offering broadband technician training programs as part of their curriculum.

Nearly 60 speakers – representing states, cities, tribal, rural, co-ops, ISPs, and more – are confirmed to speak. In addition, more than 30 state broadband offices are expected to participate in the event. Speakers are still being added and confirmed every day.

Key speakers include:

Irtiaz Ahmad, Managing Director & Head of Digital Infrastructure, Solomon Partners Michael Baldino, Director & General Counsel, Massachusetts Broadband InstituteMJ Barton, Tribal & Programs Outreach Manager, Oklahoma Broadband OfficeEric Bathras, CTO, Infrastructure, Maryland Department of Information TechnologyTaylre Beaty, State Broadband Director, Tennessee Economic and Community DevelopmentSandip Bhowmick, Vice President of Infrastructure and State Broadband Director, Arizona Commerce AuthorityAndrew Butcher, President, Maine Broadband Authority Michelle Cabiya, Director, Puerto Rico Broadband ProgramLuisa Calumpong, Broadband Manager, City of Oakland, CA Ellie de Villiers, CEO of Maple Broadband & Chair of the Vermont Communications Union Districts Association Rebecca Dilg, Director, Utah Broadband CenterEvann Freeman, VP Government & Community Relations, EPBDarcie L. Houck, Commissioner, California Public Utilities CommissionBeau Jackson, CEO, White River Connect Blair Levin, Nonresident Senior Fellow, The Brookings InstitutionMike Malandro, President & CEO, Choptank Electric Cooperative  Brian Mitchell, Director of the Office of Science, Innovation and Technology, State of Nevada Broadband OfficeJosh Pang, Managing Director & Head of Digital Infrastructure, Carlyle  Erin Scarborough, Senior Vice President, Mass Markets Product Management, AT&TRoger Timmerman, Executive Director, UTOPIA FiberNate Walowitz, Regional Broadband Program Director, Northwest Colorado Council of Governments 

On October 9, Broadband Nation Expo will offer a half-day Pre-Conference Workshop – Delivering State Broadband.

Exhibit Floor
Broadband Nation Expo is technology agnostic, showcasing a spectrum of access technologies such as fiber, fixed wireless, cable and satellite. The event has garnered significant support from the industry. To date, 57 sponsors will participate. See the list of sponsors here. Over 100 sponsors are expected to participate.

The Startup Program is new to the event this year. It offers new companies the opportunity to showcase cutting-edge technology at a discounted rate and also allows them to connect with partners and potential investors. In addition, the program will feature a pitch competition.

Networking
The event is poised to foster unparalleled networking opportunities and high-level discussions. Networking opportunities include receptions, lunches, the Broadband Nation Expo event app and more.

Broadband Nation Awards
The Broadband Nation Awards program celebrates outstanding achievements in solutions, programs, use cases, technology and individual contributions across the broadband sector. The program will feature winners in 17 categories who will be announced during the Broadband Nation Expo event.

Strategic Buyer Program
New to Broadband Nation Expo this year is the Strategic Buyer Program. The exclusive program is designed for decision-makers from rural and regional carriers, FTTH and ISPs. It provides selected participants with an opportunity to engage in up to eight 15-minute one-on-one meetings with curated event partners to discover cutting-edge solutions. Apply here.

For further details and registration, please visit Broadband Nation Expo. Stay connected with the latest updates by following Broadband Nation Expo on LinkedIn and X. Partnership opportunities for Broadband Nation Expo can be explored by contacting Scott Gruntorad at [email protected].

About TIA
The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) – the trusted association for the connected world, represents more than 400 organizations that enable high-speed communication networks and accelerate next-generation technology innovation. As a member-driven organization, TIA advocates for our industry in the U.S. and internationally, develops critical standards, manages technology programs, and improves business performance, all to advance trusted global connectivity.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Charlene Soucy
Broadband Nation Expo
[email protected]

Event takes place October 28-30 in San Antonio, TX

NEW YORK, Aug. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Bar & Restaurant Expo Texas, an extension of the nation’s largest and most influential gathering of bar and restaurant owners and operators, today unveils its conference program, which has been designed to address the challenges and opportunities facing owners and operators in the hospitality industry. The event’s mission is to equip bar, restaurant and hotel owners, operators, GMs, investors, and developers with the necessary tools to unlock profits and optimize business operations. Bar & Restaurant Expo Texas is co-located with The Hospitality Show, October 28-30 at the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio, TX. To register to attend Bar & Restaurant Expo Texas, click here.

“Our conference program has been designed to be relevant for hospitality professionals at all stages of their careers. The program will cover critical topics such as profitability, people & staffing, operations, menu marketing, customer engagement, and consumer data and trends insights. Our goal is to help bar and restaurant owners remain profitable in today’s competitive world,” said Tim McLucas, Vice President of the Hospitality Group at Questex.

The conference program caters to a wide range of experiences, from first-time owners to seasoned industry veterans, through various formats tailored to attendee objectives.

First-Time Owners: Sessions cover the essential aspects of running a hospitality business. Additionally, the two-part startup essentials bootcamp offers real-time insights and strategies, including a pre-opening checklist, creative concept development, financing and funding, hiring your dream team, navigating landlords and leases, selecting locations, and industry “tricks of the trade.” Career Development: Masterclass sessions offer a deep dive into professional development skills for GMs, bar managers, and owners, focusing on profitability and mastery in each career path. Seasoned Founders, Owners & Operators: Attendees can participate in sessions on hiring for growth, strategies and systems tailored to elevate net income and optimize financial performance and live town hall consultations offering solutions to individual business challenges. 

The Conference program will include 20 sessions with 25+ industry thought leaders over three days. Select conference program sessions include:

Decoding Data: Transforming Insights into Profitable Strategies presented by Matthew Crompton, VP On Premise – Americas, NielsenIQ. In this session, attendees will explore how to effectively use data to drive business success, capitalize on emerging trends, and enhance profitability with NielsenIQ’s tailored insights for independent and small managed groups.   The Experience Economy: Creating a Competitive Advantage Through Customer & Employee Experiences presented by Matt Rolfe, Hospitality Leadership Coach, Matt Rolfe Coaching. In this session, participants will explore strategies to elevate guest experiences through tailored training programs, unique brand elements, real-time feedback loops, and integrated experience economy principles, fostering both guest satisfaction and employee engagement. Mastering Restaurant Marketing: Insights on Acquisition, Retention, and Word of Mouth presented by Mike Bausch, Owner, Andolini’s Worldwide & The Unsliced Restaurant System and Danielle Eickenhorst, CEO, HuSTL Hospitality with Chip Klose, Founder, Restaurant Strategy Podcast moderating. In this session, attendees will learn how to develop an actionable and practical marketing strategy by identifying clear objectives, a target audience, and specific tactics such as a framework, a playbook, word-of-mouth marketing, in-house promotions and goal-setting.Why You Should Know Your Guests Better Than Ever Before presented by Scot Turner, Founder & Managing Director, Auden Hospitality. In this session, attendees will discover why understanding guests deeply is crucial in today’s competitive landscape.  Empowering Profitable Leadership: Hiring for Growth presented by Katie Button, Chef & Founder, Curate, Chief Brand Officer. Explore the strategic aspects of hiring talent and creating new positions as a business expands. In this session, attendees will learn how to build a strong leadership team.

Bar & Restaurant Expo Texas speakers are excited to share their expertise with attendees:

“Independents finally have an advantage with great reviews and proper marketing. How do you streamline it? I’ll detail how I turned Tulsa into the second-best-reviewed Pizza City in America on Google, second only to NYC, using the strategies I live and breathe,” said Mike Bausch, Owner, Andolini’s Worldwide & The Unsliced Restaurant System. “As restaurant and hospitality owners and operators, we all go through the same phases of growth, struggles, and plateau at similar times for similar reasons. It takes stepping back from the day in and day out demands of a bar or restaurant, connecting with and networking with other owners and operators who are facing the same challenges, and listening to the presentations which will spark not only the recognition and understanding of the collective struggles all operators face, but also to hear clear solutions and ideas for getting past your most urgent hurdles,” said Katie Button, Chief Brand Officer, Chef and Founder, Cúrate. “Are you struggling fighting the same battles every day? Spending all your time reacting to your business and not growing it? The GM masterclass will teach you how to build a culture of accountability that will allow you to spend less time putting out fires and more time on building & enhancing your business,” said Dave Sincebaugh, Chief Operating Officer, Kaskaid Hospitality.

To register to attend Bar & Restaurant Expo Texas, click here. Passes start at $99 through September 8.

Suppliers in the food and beverage industry can request exhibit and sponsor information here. For Bar & Restaurant Expo Texas sponsorship, contact Kyle Zegan at [email protected].

Learn more about Bar & Restaurant Expo Texas hotel and travel here.

Stay connected with Bar & Restaurant Expo Texas on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Bar & Restaurant Expo
Bar & Restaurant Expo has continued to evolve and mirror the fast-paced, trend-setting nature of the hospitality industry. The event has been providing the specific tools that bar and restaurant owners, operators, and managers need to grow their businesses, compete, and succeed in this hyper- competitive and dynamic industry. The Bar & Restaurant Group is part of the Questex Travel & Hospitality Division and also produces World Tea Expo, World Tea News, World Tea Academy, as well as Bar & Restaurant Expo, Bar & Restaurant News, and Vibe Conference.

About The Hospitality Show
The Hospitality Show is an event for the entire hospitality ecosystem with one goal: operating hotels more efficiently and profitably. Produced by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and Questex, the event brings together top industry leaders, senior executives of hotel brands, owners, operators, management companies, procurement specialists and their teams. The Hospitality Show 2024 is taking place October 28-30 at the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio, TX.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Michelle Osborne 
Events Marketing Director, Hospitality
Questex
[email protected]