NTP Events Sells Out AFA Air, Space & Cyber Conference, Breaks Attendance Records

December 21, 2017

The Air Force Association (AFA) broke attendance records and sold out exhibit space for a second consecutive year at its most recent Air, Space & Cyber Conference and Technology Exhibition, held Sept. 18-20 at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland.

Produced and managed by NTP Events in conjunction with AFA, the annual conference and trade show for military, defense and aerospace professionals who plan, design, operate, maintain and manage military technology and infrastructure attracted 9,066 attendees, a 24 percent increase over 2016, when the show drew 7,294 attendees.

The event also saw an uptick in exhibiting companies and size, with more than 130 exhibitors spanning 55,400 net square feet of expo space, compared to 124 exhibiting companies occupying a 47,600 sq. ft. showfloor in 2016.

In addition, the show’s conference portion featured 31 educational sessions covering top-of-mind industry topics.

According to NTP officials, factors contributing to the show’s surge in attendance included a 70th birthday celebration of the Air Force; emphasis and recognition of the 50th anniversary of the creation of the office of the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force for which AFA was a leading advocate; support and participation by Air Force senior leadership and Headquarters Air Force, strong partner support and an emphasis on the event as a legitimate professional development activity for all Airmen.

“During a record-breaking show in 2017, NTP Events achieved a 100 percent resign of sold exhibit space in advance of next year’s event,” said Christopher Harar, president of NTP Events.

He continued, “The early commitment from so many industry manufacturers and suppliers demonstrates trust in the AFA and its ability to deliver qualified buyers from every segment of the industry. We are proud to serve not only the AFA but also our country through these events.”

AFA’s 2018 Air, Space & Cyber Conference will return to the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor Sept. 17-19.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.    Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.    Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.   The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.    MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.     MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.