10 Great Things to Look for at PCMA
January 6, 2017
PCMA Convening Leaders is set to kick off Jan. 8-11 at the Austin Convention Center in Austin, Texas, and that means it’s time to start planning your itinerary as you gear up to join several thousand of your peers in the Live Music Capitol of the World. If you’ve attended the conference in the past, you know what to expect: three jam-packed days of mind-expanding education, a host of inspiring general sessions, plentiful networking opportunities, and fun events in and around the host venue and city.
To make the most of your Convening Leaders experience this year, here are a few things you won’t want to miss, both at the event and in one of the country’s coolest and hippest cities.
1. Education, Education, Education: With topics ranging from expo trends, event experience design and business event operations, to work/life integration, social media trends and leadership, there will be no lack of cutting-edge sessions to help boost your knowledge base. Learn how event producers pull off one of Austin’s most legendary multi-media events at “SXSW – the Makings of an Iconic Event,” on Monday at 3 p.m.
2. General Sessions: Convening Leaders is known for its inspirational roster of speakers, and this year will be no exception. Find out what value and trust mean in the digital age from author and academic Rachel Botsman; learn how “The Third Industrial Revolution” could help us meet our world’s future challenges from Economist and European Union advisor, Jeremy Rifkin, and feel more empowered to tackle personal and professional hurdles after hearing how CEO Isaac Lidsky beat seemingly insurmountable odds to achieve personal success.
3. Austin Destination Tour: This hop-on-and-off-style tour will introduce you to the city’s history and one-of-a-kind culture while showing you iconic points of interest, attractions and local hangouts. You’ll also have a chance to discover Austin’s six entertainment districts and familiarize yourself with each of their hotels and venues.
4. Braindates: This unique and innovative platform enables you to set up one-on-one meetings with other like-minded attendees so you can connect, share insights and expertise, and enjoy a more meaningful, structured networking experience. Make sure to sign up in advance online!
5. Tech Central: This is your one-stop shop for all things event technology related. Experience hands-on tutorials at the Tech Bar and TechClinics; experience mind-blowing, immersive AR/VR, and become a social media strategy guru at the Social Media Hubs. You can even try your hand at Drone Racing!
6. Texas State Capitol: If you happen to have a free hour or two, make sure to check out the magnificent Capitol Building in downtown Austin, the largest capitol building in the U.S. (because yes, everything is bigger in Texas!). Take a free, 30-minute guided tour where you’ll learn a little national, state and local history, then stroll through the surrounding 22-acre grounds featuring 17 monuments, stunning historical buildings and beautiful landscaping.
7. Food Trucks: Known for its “food trailer” craze, Austin is home to more than 1,000 mobile food vendors serving up a vast variety of delicious, unpretentious and palate-pleasing culinary options year-round, from authentic Texas barbecue and tacos, to cupcakes and scrumptious vegan fare. Check out 20 of the top-rated food trucks HERE.
8. Learning Labs: From the Design Lab that highlights new concepts in design thinking, to the dynamic Content Development Lab providing the latest best practices for curating program education and engaging content, self-paced Learning Labs are engaging, interactive and creatively inspiring. And don’t forget to visit the Wellness Lab for brief, practical sessions on mind and body self-care, nutrition and stress management.
9. Bullock Texas State History Museum: This larger-than-life museum is a must-see for visitors interested in learning about the Lone Star State. Overflowing with fascinating, interactive galleries, this enormous treasury features more than 500 artifacts and the largest IMEX theater in Austin. Click HERE for more information.
10. Networking Parties: Between the music festival-themed “Austin Live 365!” opening celebration; the Party With a Purpose charity bash at Austin City Limits Live; Austin Live! After Hours parties and the AustiNite closing night reception, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to mix business with a little carefree fun. Cowboy boots optional!
Can’t attend Convening Leaders this year? PCMA has you covered with their streaming live hybrid event that includes a robust schedule of education and three general sessions. Go HERE to register. Click HERE to check out the full schedule.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.
At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
Protecting Natural Resources
MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.
Committed to Community
Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.
MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion
To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.
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