Preview of EDPA ACCESS 2023: Insider Tips from Executive Director Dasher Lowe
November 17, 2023
Are you planning to attend the Experiential Designers and Producers Association (EDPA) Access 2023?
TSNN has everything you need to know about EDPA Access 2023 — whether you are a first-timer or regular attendee.
Founded in 1954, EDPA serves the experiential, exhibit and event industry, representing more than 300 corporations across 18 countries. The three-day annual event typically draws about 300 attendees who are C-level executives of large and small companies.
With event registration open and hotel deadlines quickly approaching, we caught up with EDPA Executive Director Dasher Lowe to get a preview of the event. He shared insider tips for making the most of the meeting.
Watch or listen to our full interview here.
Here are excerpts from our conversation with some key highlights for planning purposes.
EDPA Access 2023
When: Nov. 28-30
Where: Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs, Fla., which is 15 miles from the Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers, Fla. The resort is located just outside Naples, Fla.
Who attends: Experiential and exhibit designers and producers, as well as suppliers
What’s the vibe: Intimate, according to Lowe.
What first-timers need to know: There’s a first-timer’s reception, which will be held immediately before the opening reception on Nov. 28. Lowe recommended seeking out EDPA board members to provide introductions. Last year, there were approximately 20 first-time attendees.
What networking activities are planned: The EDPA ACCESS Annual Golf Scramble will be held on Nov. 28 at the Raymond Floyd-designed Saltleaf Golf Preserve. Last year, about 90 golfers participated. For those who don’t want to golf or relax by the resort pool or spa, EDPA is hosting a fishing excursion on the back bay. The event will feature amazing scenery with the chance to catch redfish, snapper, snook and more.
Who is speaking:
Paul Teutul Jr., widely recognized as the chief designer and fabricator of some of the world’s most famous motorcycles and known to enthusiasts through his hit television series, American Chopper. Teutul will kick off the event with a keynote on Day 1. Here’s a link to his full bio and video clip.
Jonna Mendez, a former Chief of Disguise for the CIA’s Office of Technical Service, will start the morning on Day 2. During her 27-year career, she earned the CIA’s Intelligence Commendation Medal. As a specialist in clandestine photography, Mendez oversaw operational disguise responsibilities in the most hostile theaters of the Cold War — from Havana and Beijing to Moscow and ultimately into the Oval Office.
Dr. Tracey Wilen, a researcher and speaker on the impact of technology on society, work and careers, will share her insights on Day 2 to help the audience understand the changing work environment.
Additional speakers include Jeremy Bess, an economist; Han Leenhouts, who will explore the impact of artificial intelligence on the industry; and Jane Gentry, who will provide food for thought and for discussion about the changing workplace.
What are other program highlights:
- Led by Liz Nacron, partner at Live Marketing, the Future Leaders Group will have another influx of young talent.
- The agenda will also include the EDPA Compensation and Economic Study, as well as legacy sessions, including CFO Insight, Designer Issues Forum and Management Issues Forum.
- The State of the Association will underscore EDPA’s commitment to the future of the industry.
- Jessica Sibila will report on the work of The Exhibitor Advocate.
- New sustainability standards will also be introduced to the entire membership.
What to do in the area: During your stay, discover the many local art galleries, museums, shops, restaurants and entertainment venues found only minutes from the Florida family resort. If you are feeling adventurous, you can charter fishing trips and excursions through the Everglades.
Check out a list of things to do Fort Myers, curated by Visit Fort Myers. Or view the Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades Official Visitor's Guide, which features trip ideas, maps, sample itineraries, a comprehensive list of local accommodations and attractions and a variety of local secrets.
For more information, contact Lowe at dlowe@edpa.com or (312) 799-9562.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
Add new comment