CAP Conference Report: Showtime

Issue 43 | Pre-Conference 2024

NGAUS is a big, busy conference. If you're new to the National Guard market, here are some tips to make the most of your time in Detroit. If you’ve attended before, I look forward to seeing you there!

Visit the website: NGAUS 146th General Conference & Exhibition

Get the App:

• Download the NGAUS App.
• Build your personal schedule before you arrive.
• Explore all app features and check for updates throughout the conference.
• Enable 'push' notifications.

Join us at industry partner meetings:

• Thursday, August 22, 2024, 1700-1900: Exhibitors’ Reception | Hall B, C Minuteman Stage
• Saturday, August 24, 2024, 1330-1430: New Corporate Member Orientation | Exhibit Hall Minuteman Stage
• Sunday, August 24, 2024, 0800-0915: Industry Workshop - SPP | Exhibit Hall Minuteman Stage
• Monday, August 26, 2024, 0915-1020: Corporate Advisory Panel Meeting (Open) | Exhibit Hall Minuteman Stage

Attend Task Force Meetings on Sunday, August 25, 2024:

• Interact with standing Task Forces, a lesser-known benefit of your corporate membership.
• Check the app for the list of Task Force meetings on Sunday, August 28.
• Attend meetings that match your product/service.

Find potential customers:

• Understand they are there for NGAUS Member business, but you can hand out flyers and cards to those in uniform and invite them to your booth.

Participate in social events:

• The National Guard community is interactive and receptive to industry partners. Build and maintain relationships during social events but avoid pushing work conversations. Instead, invite them to your booth for further discussions.
• Attend the Governor’s Reception, visit the Hospitality Suites (details on the app), and don’t miss Hospitality Night. Check the app for dates, times, and locations.

Tip: Carry business cards with your booth number written on them. After introductions, hand your card over and invite them to visit your booth the next day for a more detailed discussion.

Key events on exhibit floor:

• Two book signings: Bob Parsons and Joseph McCormick
• Speakers on the Minuteman Stage
• PXG Golf Simulation Booth with potential to win products

For more information, contact:

• Jim Simms (Conference Coordinator): james.simms@ngaus.org
• Darin Gilderoy (CAP Vice-Chair): Darin.Gilderoy@sbdinc.com | 678-316-0972

Look forward to seeing all Industry Partners and Guardsmen at future events.

From our Communications Chair Erik Andersen: 

I hope everyone is well-prepared for the Conference and I look forward to seeing you there. This is the second newsletter of the year in the new format, providing timely information for your plans in Detroit. Please stop by the GTRI booth or contact me at erik.andersen@gtri.gatech.edu for feedback or recommendations on how you’d like to receive information from the CAP or improve how we support you.