Conference Recap BY LAURA SHELTON, CMP, DATIA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR W


e shared, we engaged, we grew! With 750 participants, over 25 educational sessions,


and 70 exhibiting companies, there were plenty of options and ways for everyone to share, engage, and grow this past May in Orlando, Florida. And boy, did they take advantage of them. Participants began the conference with


an opening session presented by Garrison Wynn on how to motivate and influence those around you and potential clients to achieve beter success. Following this, atendees were provided a wealth of information from the DOT’s very own Patrice Kelly. Sessions throughout the conference were also presented by a representative from each modal agency. Participants rated Ms. Kelly’s session as the top session of the conference with all of the modal presentations also rated very highly. In fact, out of a scale of 1-4, all conference sessions were rated a 3 or above! Additional top-rated sessions included


Dr. Barry Sample’s Drug Testing Industry Report featuring key findings from the Quest Diagnostics Drug Testing Index, an interactive session on mock FMCSA audits facilitated by Lisa Ruehle (Co-Chair of DATIA’s Education Commitee) and Joe Reilly, and Faye Caldwell’s session on providing a safe workplace and managing risk.


Don’t take my word for how much


participants enjoyed the 2017 conference, let them tell you themselves. Below are a few quotes from the post-conference evaluation. In addition to comprehensive education,


the DATIA 2017 Conference provided multiple events to facilitate networking. Quest Diagnostics kicked off the conference with the Opening Reception held in the exhibit hall on the first night. Here, participants were seen meeting old and new friends, learning how the exhibitors and their products and services could enhance their operations, and planning their schedules for the remainder of the conference. Aſter the first full day of sessions, Alere Toxicology gave participants a great event where they discussed what they had learned with colleagues, had fun playing games and dancing, and solidified new contacts and business relationships. With the majority of participants


reporting that they already plan to atend the 2018 conference in New Orleans, and 96% indicating that they would recommend the DATIA conference to colleagues, we expect to see a great turnout for the 2018 Annual Conference and Exposition. Just turn to page 30 to see in full color some of the highlights from this year’s conference, and then mark your calendar to be there in person May 22–24, 2018! ❚


“Thomas Theolecke was, hands down, the best speaker at the DATIA conference. I got some great information from his lecture that has helped me improve the way I do things. I am receiving better results. Thank you Thomas Theolecke.” —Francisco Rodriguez


“Really enjoyed the mock audit! It really put things into perspective of what happens from an employer aspect. Hoping to be able to transfer these skills to help our companies.”


—Kristi Kalkbrenner


“This was my first DATIA conference and I enjoyed the experience. The location was great and the speakers were very knowledgeable. There was a session for everyone to attend based on interests. I also enjoyed the networking events in the evenings. The DOT/FAA/ FMSCA topics were relevant to me and the sessions were highly informative. I walked away with several action items and best practices to implement right away! Looking forward to next year!”


—Shala Andrews


“This was my first event and will not be my last. I loved the opportunity to learn and network and even have fun! Thank you for all your efforts to have a great event!”


—Jenna Richardson 28 datia focus summer 2017


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