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eather boas, sequined jackets, blackjack dealers, and poker chips. At the Educational Facility Managers Association (EFMA) of British Columbia’s 52nd annual conference and trade show, a little bit of Vegas took over the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre. The theme for this year’s event, which ran May 30 to June 3, was Building Capacity for a Sustainable Future, and featured p ro f e s s i o n a l development sessions, zone meetings, the EFMA AGM, a trade show, plus networking events that included a golf tournament, receptions, and a night of gambling and games Vegas-style. Guest speakers included Olympic gold medalist Adam Kreek, who won the gold medal in 2008 for men’s eight rowing. Kreek is now a journalist, social entrepreneur, and motivational speak-
er and he spoke to the crowd of almost 160 delegates about leadership in the changing marketplace. While the theme for the convention was about creating sustainability, the common theme among participants seemed to be meeting and networking with others from around the province. “The conference is a great way to meet and talk to the members and vendors who we correspond with throughout the year,” said Bruce MacLean, manager of operations, SD 8 (Kootenay Lake). “It’s great for new members because the amount of experience and knowledge inside that convention centre each day goes a long way. The information is relevant to everyone in our group.” Al McDougall, lower mainland industrial sales manager at EB Horsman & Son, has been attending the conference for 13 years. “We’re located throughout B.C., so we get the opportunity to meet and show off technology to members throughout the province. This conference definitely increases our exposure.”
2016 EFMA conference and trade show
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Ops Talk • Fall 2016
