Securing a successful future
With the industry facing political uncertainty and new data technologies, all of which can undermine confidence, this year’s ECIA Executive Conference is all about security
Security is the bedrock of growth and prosperity; you can’t do business unless your company, employees and customers are secure, which is why global political uncertainty and new data technologies have undermined confidence throughout the global economy.
The 2018 ECIA Executive Conference therefore focuses on solutions and strategies to keep vital assets secure. This one and a half day conference provides networking opportunities coupled with thought-provoking sessions where delegates can join senior management from leading electronics companies for an informative, results-oriented experience.
The conference, which has been running for over 30 years, offers an in-depth look at the electronic components industry and is geared towards industry-specific education, as well as fostering meaningful relationships across this section of the supply chain network.
Evolving secure
This year, the opening keynote will be delivered by president of electronic components at Avnet, Phil Gallagher, who will share his views on the opportunity presented by digital transformation. With the challenges of industry regulations, continued consolidation and the need to develop a talent pipeline, this session asks how we keep evolving to stay relevant and competitive.
Another highlight will be a discussion on the future of robotics led by Grant Imahara, Mouser Electronics’ Empowering Innovation Together program host. Grant joins Dominik Boesl of KUKA and Magnus Egerstedt and Ayana Howard of Georgia Institute of Technology for a dialogue on the implications of robotics for the electronic component industry.
Other first day sessions include an explanation of blockchain from Rebecca Gott of IBM, who will explain how it can be used to secure business networks and its impact in the components arena. Professor Erik Zwick of University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business will also explain the new tax code and the implications for business.
Focusing on employees, Lesli Jennings of Willis Towers and Watson will present findings from a report on the future of work, while recruitment expert, James Willis, will deliver a presentation on winning the war for talent. Also on day one, ex-CIA counter-terrorism expert, Wes Odom, will explain how to analyze risk and protect employees and business interests during travel.
Cyber security
Day two will tackle the important issues of improving sales talent and protecting your business from cyber security threats. Director of Gartner, Evan de la Torre, will explore the changing nature of business to business customers, drawing on research borne from a study of over 60,000 sales professionals, while General Dynamics’ Chuck Brooks will explore the ever-changing threats faced in keeping businesses secure.
Finally, ECIA’s chief executive officer, Bill Bradford, will share news of exciting changes afoot at the association, designed to offer members even more value.
Detailed conference and registration information is available online the ECIA website. Hotel bookings at the Loews Chicago O’Hare can be made by calling direct: 847-544-5300. Mention the ECIA 2018 meeting.