The IECA will host its 88th Annual Conference from October 14-17, 2012, at the Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort in Marco Island, Fla. This event offers attendees an array of educational sessions tailored to the new, intermediate and seasoned energy credit professional, while

addressing the latest regulatory developments impacting the energy 

sector.  

 

Highlighted this year are two highly anticipated keynote speaker presentations. International economist Todd Buchholz is presenting on the "Hope and Danger in the World Economy," pulling from his experience as a former White House director of economic policy, among various other jobs involving fiscal matters.

 

Buchholz speaking engagements earned him a spot in Successful Meetings magazine's "21 Top Speakers for the 21st Century." In addition to presentations, Buchholz has written multiple best-selling books on economics and financial markets, many of which have been translated and taught in universities worldwide.

 

Day three of the Annual Conference includes a presentation by keynote Dennis Gartman, who is widely recognized for producing The Gartman Letter. The publication's clients include numerous leading banks, mutual funds, hedge funds, energy trading companies and grain trading companies.

 

In addition to creating his publication, Gartman previously taught classes for the Federal Reserve Bank's School for Bank Examiners and appears often on CNBC, Bloomberg and ROB-TV. Gartman's session focuses on "Energy, Economics and the Election: A Trader's Perspective on the Capital Markets."

 

"The conference format has been created with you in mind," says IECA President Paul Krebs in his invitation to the 88th Annual IECA Conference. "Specialized tracks allow you to attend sessions ranging from basic to advanced. There is something for everyone! Special receptions and networking events connect you with your colleagues, friends, new members and vendors in a welcoming environment."

 

Additional topics that will be covered in breakout sessions include industry updates, understanding basic concepts of the energy credit trade, new tools available to members and corporate credit rating analysis.

 

As a part of IECA's mission to promote the professionalism of its members, the IECA sponsors several continuing education programs to offer CPE, CLE and CDA program credits. Attendees can earn 8.5-10.2 hours of Continuing Legal Education credits, up to 13 NASBA CPE credits, up to 13 GARP CPE credits and CFA credit. Requirements and information on earning these credits is available in the conference registration booklet.

 

Register or get more information about the conference here.

 

IECA Insights recently interviewed conference keynote speakers Todd Buchholz and Dennis Gartman to give Annual Conference attendees some insight into their upcoming presentations.

 

Todd Buchholz

Mr. Buchholz, your keynote, "Hope and Danger in the World Economy," will focus on the challenges, threats and outlook for the world economy. Can you provide 2-3 key highlights from the presentation?

We're facing a world that is paradoxically becoming closer-knit economically, more trade and globalization, but also seems to be breaking apart with flames and inflammatory rhetoric in the Middle East and the south China sea, for example. The United States must show more leadership and a commitment to free trade or else the Great Recession will linger for decades.

 

Mr. Gartman, your keynote, "Energy, Economics and the Election: A Trader's Prospective on the Capital Markets," will help attendees gain a greater understanding of the outlook for the U.S. economy, capital markets, political and regulatory landscape and energy markets. What are the key highlights of the presentation?

I will be discussing the geopolitical circumstances presently, with focus on the impending election in the United States. It is clear that there is a material difference in the approaches to energy of the two candidates. Further, there is a difference in how the two candidates view regulation. One is a proponent of small, less intrusive government while the other is a proponent of greater intrusion. I will also focus upon what is occurring in Asia, with particular focus on the situation in the South and East China Seas.

Dennis Gartman

Why did you feel it would be important to speak at the IECA Annual Conference?

TB: I'm pleased to speak at the IECA event because it focuses on the crux of our economic future. Nothing is more important than the intersection of energy and credit.

 

What are two important trends in the energy industry?

TB: Two trends include a massive switch to shale gas, including vehicles. Another are concerns that government subsidies might be creating a bubble in solar.

 

DG: The trends toward North American energy independence and the trend toward lesser demand for gasoline amongst global consumers are two trends that have to be discussed and explored. During my presentation, we will discuss and explore both.

 

Is there anything else you'd like to share with attendees prior to the IECA Annual Conference?

TB: Two questions for attendees to think about: imagine how much stronger the economic recovery would be if oil were at $50 instead of $95 per barrel? Why hasn't the U.S. government tried to push for lower prices?

 

DG: I do not think we can focus enough upon the changes surrounding fracking and the diminished demand for coal as a result of seemingly ever cheaper natural gas. Increased need to export LNG to clients and markets abroad is another area where emphasis should not be placed.

 

10. Marco Island Marriott is known for three things: the beach, golf and spa. We don't think this one needs any more elaboration. 

 

9. Nine remarkable restaurants on property serving something for every palate.

 

8. IECA provides specialized educational tracks that have been tailored to provide professional development, regardless of skill level.

 

7. Wearing a Hawaiian print shirt is acceptable. Participate in the Tacky Tourist Contest and be recognized for your brightest floral fashions!   

 

6. A Certification Course has been designed for the basics and intermediate skill levels that also serves as a refresher course for those more experienced. Complete all six sessions and you will receive a Certificate of Completion and credit toward the IECA Certification Program.

 

5. Want to evaluate the latest developments in products and services that can benefit you and your company? Look no further than the conference Trade Show! With 17 key industry vendors, you can ask your burning questions and discuss recent advancements and solutions.

 

4. Networking, networking, networking! Where else can you find leading industry professionals, such as yourself, all in the same place?! Bring your business cards!

 

3. Two Keynote Speakers: Todd Buchholz and Dennis Gartman, leading economists and commentators ready to provide you with industry trends, information and observations.

 

2. More than 20 Educational Sessions

 

1. Earn Continuing Education Credits: NASBA CPE, GARP CPE, Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Credits and CE credits as granted by the CFA Institute to further and advance your career.

 

WANTED: Hawaiian Shirts, Oversized Cameras, Socks with Sandals and Sunscreen-Covered Noses

Premiering at this year's conference is the inaugural IECA Tacky Tourist Contest. The IECA invites participants to fit the tourist stereotype! Pack your Hawaiian shirts, large cameras and make sure you stand out in a crowd of locals.

 

Wear your attire to the Networking Dinner on Sunday, October 14, for a chance to be named the Tackiest Tourist of Them All. Worried that your outfit is too tacky? Don't be--it's perfect for this event.

 

I'm Techy and I Know It...

The IECA is showcasing for the first time a conference mobile app. The app will be compatible with all mobile device models including Blackberry, iPhone, and Android. It will also be fully accessible on various tablets including the iPad. Check your e-mail and IECA social media outlets for the official unveiling later this month.

 

Be Social with IECA

During the conference, updates and information will be posted on all IECA social media outlets including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you are not a member, sign up today to remain up to speed on the latest conference chatter.

 

Facebook: International Energy Credit Association (IECA)

Twitter: @IECAssoc, Hashtag: #IECAEdu

LinkedIn: International Energy Credit Association

Gary Nicholson Appointed as IECA's New North American Executive VP

 

As the IECA has reported in previous communications, Jerry Burt is retiring as IECA Executive Vice President, North America. The IECA has appointed Gary Nicholson to replace Jerry effective following the 88th Annual IECA Conference. 

Gary Nicholson

 

Gary, who retired from Chevron Corp. in November 2010, served 35 years with the company in a variety of finance and marketing positions of increasing responsibility. Chevron is one of the world's largest integrated energy companies with sales of about $200 billion annually. Gary started his career with Standard Oil of California in 1976, working in the Northwest marketing division headquartered in Seattle.  

 

Gary earned his BA in Business Administration Management from Central Washington University in 1979. In 1998, he also completed NACM's Graduate School of Credit & Finance Management at Dartmouth College. Gary holds the NACM designation of Certified Credit Executive (CCE). He has been a member of the IECA since 2000 and served as chair of the Commercial Credit Education Group, director of the association, and most recently as VP of Education. In 2010, the IECA granted Gary Honorary member status based on past service.

 

Jerry Burt has been working closely with Gary over the past few months to ensure a smooth transition of the EVP responsibilities. "I can't think of a better way to welcome Gary to the IECA than with the support of his predecessor. That's teamwork at its finest" said Mr. Krebs. "I am confident Gary has the vision to lead the IECA education program into the future."

 

Gary spent the first 30 years of his life in the state of Washington before Chevron transferred him to their headquarters in the San Francisco Bay area in 1985, where he now resides with his wife Lysa. 

New IECA Website Coming Soon!

 

The IECA is getting ready to unveil its new website. A lot of new exciting features are in store for members, including a new robust membership profile/search, industry and association news, intuitive navigation and informative resources and documents. 

 

All members will receive new login and password credentials, so be on the lookout for an e-mail in the first half of October. Please make a note to update your profile, photo and other information when you first visit the site. You may just win yourself a Starbucks gift card!

 

As part of the new website launch and our efforts to enhance the IECA brand, we developed a tagline to convey what IECA is about in four short words. We are unveiling and celebrating the new tagline at the Sunday dinner on the beach at the IECA 88th Annual Conference in Marco Island. The winner of the iPAD sponsored by Paragon Consulting will be announced in Marco too!

Have You Started Your 2013 Professional Development Budget?

 

As most members approach the start of their annual budgeting process, the IECA would like to encourage you to include IECA in your 2013 plans.  It's never too early to identify which educational opportunities you would like to attend, as well as budgeting for annual association dues. The IECA offers a number of valuable development resources, such as its annual conferences, seminars, and its credit risk certification program. 

 

Also please consider sponsorship of an IECA Conference, event or program when planning your 2013 marketing budget. IECA sponsorship is an effective and affordable way to reach your target audience through support of educational efforts. 

 

If you need assistance on future pricing or fees, please contact the IECA office. 

If you would like to submit member news for a future issue of IECA Insights send your information to Laura Roussel at Laura_Roussel@murphyoilcorp.com.