Recap of the 2016 EFMA Conference and Trade Show

Feather boas, sequined jackets, blackjack dealers, er and he spoke to the crowd of almost 160 delegates about leaderand poker chips. At the Educational Facility Manag- ship in the changing marketplace. ers Association (EFMA) of British Columbia’s 52nd While the theme for the convention was about creating sustainannual conference and trade ability, the common theme among participants seemed show, a little bit of Ve- to be meeting and networking with others from gas took over the around the province. Penticton Trade and Conven- “The conference is a great way to tion Centre. meet and talk to the members

The theme for this and vendors who we correyear’s event, which ran May 30 to June 3, was Building Ca- 2016 spond with throughout the year,” said Bruce MacLean, manager of operations, pacity for a Sustainable Future, and featured professional development sessions, zone EFMA conference SD 8 (Kootenay Lake). “It’s great for new members because the amount of experience and knowledge inside that conmeetings, the EFMA AGM, a trade show, plus networking events that included a golf tour and trade show vention centre each day goes a long way. The information is relevant to everyone in our group.” Al McDougall, lower nament, receptions, mainland industrial sales and a night of gambling manager at EB Horsman & Son, and games Vegas-style. has been attending the confer-

Guest speakers included ence for 13 years. “We’re located Olympic gold medalist Adam throughout B.C., so we get the opporKreek, who won the gold medal in tunity to meet and show off technology to 2008 for men’s eight rowing. Kreek is now a members throughout the province. This conference journalist, social entrepreneur, and motivational speak- definitely increases our exposure.”

During the trade show, which included 117 exhibitor booths, delegates were able to network, see old friends, meet new members, and have a little fun.

“The tradeshow allows us to reconnect with people from all over the province whom we usually deal with over the phone,” said Ian Bowles, technical support and customer service technician for IBC Boiler. “It’s a relaxing atmosphere; you are relationship-building and getting feedback on how well the product is performing.”

Adria Perron, sales and marketing manager at WinMar Property Restoration Specialists, agrees. “The ability to engage face-to-face with attendees, gives us the opportunity to find out how we can better serve our customers. It’s a valuable and worthwhile conference,” said Perron.

The purpose of the convention is about sharing of information between industry professionals, vendors, and EFMA members all designed to help members meet the challenges in their positions, and it continues to be a big draw every year.

“Consistent participation in the EFMA conference is the key to building relationships,” said Judy Slutsky, director of business development, Roofing Contractors Association of British Columbia. “Returning each year allows us to continue to improve our service to schools. It’s very valuable.” n