2024 MHEDA Convention & Exhibitor Showcase
According to Albert Einstein, “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” Change is all around us, what are you doing to prepare your team, your business and yourself? If you are looking to stay connected with hundreds of your material-handling peers and in tune with the latest industry trends, then be sure to join MHEDA April 20-24 for the 2024 Annual Convention in San Diego, California. This year’s theme, “Riding the Waves of Change” is designed to help you navigate the often-difficult waves of endless changes in our world and in the material handling business community.
Learn and connect with experts on topics critical to running your business: economic uncertainty, emerging technologies, shifting generations, artificial intelligence, leading teams, keeping your business cyber-safe, and more.
MHEDA’s Convention is also a great way to learn about the latest products and services in our industry. Enjoy meeting with nearly 90 different companies at the Exhibitor Showcase, which will take place on Monday, April 22.
The convention destination is ideally located at the beautiful Hilton San Diego Bayfront, rising above the stunning San Diego Bay and steps from the Gaslamp Quarter and Petco Park. Discover San Diego’s most exciting attractions within steps of the hotel – including fabulous shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Look at all we have planned for you and then register today. We can’t wait to see you this spring!
Memorable Main Stage Presentations
Challenge of Change
NFL Legend Joe Theismann knows how to deal with the “Challenge of Change.” On November 18, 1985, he was on top of his game–a two-time Pro Bowl player and the most productive quarterback in the history of the Washington Redskins. Later that evening, he found himself in a hospital bed with a compound fracture to his leg, shattering both his career and his boyhood dream. In this stirring presentation, Joe will help you tackle change by keeping a positive outlook and committing to a vision that guides you to the top.
The Power of Choice
In a workplace filled with endless possibilities, the choices we make define our journey. In this breathtaking journey, international speaker and author Sylvie di Giusto unveils the profound impact of intention on personal, professional, and organizational growth. Drawing from her expertise in behavioral psychology and her more than twenty-year-long corporate career, Sylvie reveals how the choices we make shape our interactions, relationships, and ultimately, the outcome of every encounter.
Embrace It: Generative AI and Your Future
Ready to feel excited about your new AI-powered future? Join Sam Richter, CEO of SBR Worldwide, for a humorous, high-content, and high-learning program. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are nothing new. However, with the introduction of Generative AI programs like ChatGPT, Claude, Llama, and other large language models, for the first time in history, everyone has equal access to the knowledge and advanced technology that will transform business, communications, jobs, and everyday lives.
The Economy: Finishing 2024 and Looking Beyond
The macroeconomic landscape is uneven, with some markets performing well and others struggling. ITR Economist Brian Beaulieu will look at the economic drivers for the rest of 2024 to clear away the noise and provide a clearer view of what lies ahead. We will examine the leading indicator signals to determine what they are telling us about 2025.
Ten Business Sessions to Choose From
Selling Through Tough Times
Whether it’s a recession, industry disruption or downturn, a tough competitor, or an extended sales slump, every seller faces tough times. This practical message by sales trainer and author Paul Reilly is your go-to guide to growing your profits and mental resilience in any downturn.
Recruiting, Retaining, and Developing Great Employees
People hate change, but employees will leave a company if they are unhappy. Chris Czarnik, an award-winning speaker, and author will help you understand the demographic shift that has caused the talent shortage and examine the cost of an open position.
2024 Material Handling Business Trends Roundtable Discussions
Discuss the 2024 Trends with fellow attendees during the Roundtable Discussions. Great way to connect, network and share your own ideas and experiences.
Automation Solutions: A Beginner’s Guide
This session provides insights from MHEDA Members on this emerging market. Learn about the capabilities, process, and resources required to integrate automated solutions. Presented by MHEDA Members Darin Boik, President, Advanced Equipment Company; Jordan Frank, EVP and Co-Founder of Zion Solutions Group; and Mitch Smith, Chief Revenue Officers, Hytrol.
Making Higher Profit Permanent
During the last two years, MHEDA members have experienced unprecedented levels of profitability. Dr. Al Bates, Principal in the Distribution Performance Project, will help you plan for your financial future and understand findings from the MHEDA’s benchmarking report.
Rapid Growth in the Face of Uncertainty
With real-world examples and case studies from a diverse range of industries, small business advocate Matthew Pollard explains why changing economic times, new technologies, and ever-growing competition are nothing to fear. For sustained momentum and growth in the face of external factors, businesses need only turn to Matthew’s proven, time-tested principles.
Better Together: How To Build a Culture of Belonging
Building a culture of belonging is more than top-down leadership and operating on the mindset that it’s someone else’s responsibility. Thought leader and TEDx speaker Princess Sarah Culberson uses her personal experience as an adopted child growing up in a bi-racial family, as well as understanding a whole new culture when she discovered that she was a real-life princess in Sierra Leone.
Leading through Change
Change is constant and not always fun. With her trademark wisdom, insights and engaging storytelling, speaker, and author AmyK Hutchens shares the psychological mindset of change from initial resistance to intrinsic acceptance all the way through to forward-focused action.
You Just “Friended” a Thief: Simple Ways to Protect Your Data, Your Client’s Data, and Ultimately Your Business
It’s shocking how vulnerable we all are to Personal Identity Theft and Business Identity Theft – in ways you might not think about. CEO of SBR Worldwide Sam Richter will help you protect your business.
The Invisible Sale: Mastering the Art of Persuasion Through Story
What if your sales team could have an instant advantage over all your competition? Speaker and author Matthew Pollard will help you shift your sales team away from the uncomfortable bulldog tactics of the past, to a new and scientifically proven methodology that consistently multiplies results.
Engaging Exhibitor Showcase
The Exhibitor Showcase is a tabletop networking event! Come learn about the latest products and services available in the material handling industry. Convention attendees are invited to walk the show floor to network with nearly 90 exhibitors and learn how they can help your company succeed and better serve your customers. It’s a great way to enhance your convention experience on a personal and professional level.
Special Events Networking Opportunities
Opening Party at Punch Bowl Social
MHEDA kicks off the Convention with an Opening Party at Punch Bowl Social! Enjoy interactive games including shuffleboard, karaoke, and bocce ball, plus food and drinks with fellow attendees.
MHEDA Gives Back
MHEDA Gives Back is an interactive, fun activity where attendees will gather and assemble items to help local children in need.
Exhibitor Showcase Happy Hour
Enjoy more networking, beverages, snacks, and the chance to win prizes at MHEDA’s Exhibitor Showcase Happy Hour.
California Dreamin’ Closing Party
End your MHEDA Convention experience with a memorable evening of casual California fun, food, drinks, and live music! Great way to kick back and enjoy the final night party with your new MHEDA friends.
Enjoy Local San Diego Attractions
MHEDA makes it easy to enjoy San Deigo’s best by organizing fun local tours and a golf tournament.
Golf Tournament at Steele Canyon
Steele Canyon has been celebrated as one of California’s most exciting golf courses. From the dramatic elevation changes and the total seclusion, Convention attendees will enjoy a wonderful day of golf.
Gaslamp e-Bike Tour
Embark on an electrifying adventure unlike any other as you dive into the heart of San Diego’s vibrant cityscape on our exhilarating and highly sought-after electric bike tour. You will bike through downtown San Diego, The Historic Gaslamp Quarter and Balboa Park.
Cornado Shopping & Lunch
Experience the serenity of Coronado Island with this self-guided shopping experience, followed by lunch at The Henry, one of the island’s top spaces to sip cocktails and enjoy San Diego living.
Register Today!
So many learning, networking and fun activities are planned at MHEDA’s 2024 Convention! We look forward to seeing you April 20-24 in sunny San Diego. For details and to register, visit www.mheda.org/convention2024 or contact the MHEDA team at [email protected] or call 847-680-3500.
