MCAA 2014 OPENING EVENTS EXCEED MEMBERS' EXPECTATIONS
 Sunday evening's Multi-Dimensional Opening Party gave attendees an eye-popping backdrop to an evening of delectable foods, beverages and great music that added up to a memorable convention "first-night." This morning, MCAA President Michael R. Cables opened the association's 125th annual convention to cheers of appreciation from over 2000 attendees. A block-buster video of President Cables' motorcycle journey through America's Southwest with a cavalcade of memorable characters caused a roar of laughter and appreciation for a light-hearted beginning to this always amazing event. He greeted MCAA members and guests and then delivered a message about how our industry has responded to the challenges of a still-recovering economy over the past year with help from MCAA's educational programs and other resources. He welcomed David Gergen, CNN Senior Political Analyst. A White House advisor to four presidents, Gergen provided members with insights about the struggles that America's leaders endured and the lessons those challenges present to our current and future national leaders. "Leaders count," he said. "They know how to play the high cards in a hand, and America has more high cards than any other nation in the world." He went on to say that one of America's highest cards is the coming generation of Millennials who are eager to take on America's greatest challenges and make this nation stronger than ever. President Cables also presented MCAA's highest honor - the Distinguished Service Award - to John Odom of the Murray Company (Rancho Dominguez, CA) in recognition of his many contributions to MCAA and our industry and his courageous triumph over almost overwhelming adversity. 

INFORMATIVE SESSIONS RAISE THE BAR AT MCAA 2014

Tuesday events will begin with a leisurely stroll through the Annual Manufacturer/Supplier Council Exhibit where more than 100 suppliers to our industry will display their newest and best products and services. Students from 27 MCAA student chapters will also exhibit their resumes and chapter information for potential positions with contractors as summer interns or full-time professionals. Later in the day, the top four teams in this year's Student Chapter Competition will be on stage to present their proposals. Educational sessions begin with economist Brian Beaulieu's predictions for changes to the U.S. economy over the next few months and his suggestions about how contractors should adjust their financial planning strategies. Top mechanical service contractors Scott Berger, Robert Lake and Richard Starr will discuss best practices in providing optimal service to customers. NEI Director John Koontz will lead a session about the importance of developing effective manager-foreman partnerships to successful business growth. Twitter guru Mandy Stahl will explain the basics of this increasingly popular social networking forum. And, the day winds down with the Annual Dessert Party, featuring the always popular make-your-own sundae bar and Rock 'n' Roll band Anthem.