Women Business Enterprises, Corporate members and staff from RPOs around the country joined WBENC for the 2015 National Conference and Business Fair at the 881,000 square foot Austin Convention Center located in downtown Austin, Texas. The Women’s Business Council- Southwest (WBCS) was proud to be the Host Council for this event under the leadership of President Debbie Hurst. The theme of the conference was "Join Forces. Succeed Together."
Day One began with an orientation for fist time attendees of the conference. Attendees received a warm welcome by WBENC President, Pam Eason and WBENC Board Chair, Benita Fortner, Director, Supplier Diversity Raytheon Company. There was a special focus on how to work the trade show floor. Learn to differentiate yourself, know your value proposition inside-and-out, target certain exhibitors, prioritize your prospects and wear comfortable shoes!
Following the orientation, conference attendees were able to meet their Regional Partner Organizations (RPO). Members from across the country networked and connected in a ballroom with over 2,500 seats. RPO leaders gave micro-interviews with insights on their favorite parts of the conference, tips for WBEs and words of empowerment. The highlight of the lunch was keynote speaker, Carla Harris, a prominent leader, author and singer. Harris shared a brief, powerful message on what it means to be a leader and embracing your authentic self. She then led a panel discussion featuring the WBE tri-chairs of the conference, Nina Vaca of The Pinnacle Group, Cathi Coan of Techway Services, Inc., and Keeli Jernigan of Trans-Expedite, Inc. It was wonderful to hear such successful and qualified women speak on the trials of entrepreneurship and how relationships play an integral role in their success. Each brought a different perspective and a wealth of experience to the panel.
The day continued with workshops that covered a variety of topics from leveraging your certification and expanding your business globally, to doing business with the government and innovations in the tech, retail and manufacturing industries. Attendees finally had a chance to relax with music, drinks and dancing, as the day closed with a welcome reception and silent auction.
On day two, a candid yet sincere, Danica Patrick, helped exhibitors and attendees rev their engines in anticipation as the breakfast keynote speaker. Her story about forging her way into a male-dominated industry and leaving them all in the dust resonated with the hundreds of WBEs in the room. Patrick exemplified the conference theme of joining forces and succeeding together when a member of the audience asked if Patrick would help to achieve a life-long dream of writing a book by contributing an interview. Patrick accepted on the spot. With the tone set for the day, Patrick waved the green flag and people flooded the floor of the Business Fair.
There were over 300 exhibitors and 3,500 attendees at the Business Fair. Supplier diversity professionals and WBEs alike gave away their best schwag and created innovative experiences for visitors. You could have your picture taken on a forklift, sample Women Owned products and even win tablets and smart watches. Entrepreneurs were able to meet the right procurement and supplier diversity professionals and give their pitch. WBEs networked with each other to offer mentorship and to foster business relationships. It was an extremely successful day for all in attendance and a huge win for WBENC.
After a productive day, everyone changed into something more casual and headed to the Palmer Event Center for a fun evening reception, which was organized by our very own Host Committee. Upon arrival, guests were greeted by Austin’s favorite food trucks: Chi-lantro, Southside Pies, Hey Cupcake!, Peached Tortilla and Amy’s ice cream. There was truly something for everyone. The crowd marveled at the Aggie Wranglers who showcased their dancing skills with high-flying and quick-paced stunts. Everyone joined in a line-dancing lesson lead by the talented group. Outside, spectators watched armadillo races and partook in karaoke on a large stage.
By day three, conference attendees weren’t slowing down. Some participated in 1:1 MatchMaker meetings and others attended workshop sessions on topics such as social media utilization and building a case for supplier diversity. Midway through the day, everyone filed into the grand ballroom for lunch and motivational speaker, Jonathan Sprinkles. His humorous and high-energy speech was well received by the crowd. He reiterated the notion that failure is not an obstacle, but rather a stepping-stone to success. Excuses have no place in your professional and personal blueprints. The audience left the ballroom with lifted spirits and an ignited passion to achieve their goals.
On the final night of the conference, everyone gathered to honor those who have fought the hardest and made the most impact for supplier diversity during the Tribute Dinner. WBENC paid its respects to long-time board members who recently retired. The Host Committee surprised WBCS president, Debbie Hurst, with a beautiful, hand-woven banner recognizing WBCS’ 20th Anniversary.
The conference ended on a high note- a celebration of the 2016 National Conference hosted in Orlando, Florida. Attendees danced the night away in celebration of a successful week! Thousands of women joined forces and succeeded together. WBCS looks forward to seeing you all next year in Florida!