FEDA Scores With Speakers At 82nd Annual Convention

More than 360 foodservice equipment industry professionals convened last month in Phoenix at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa for the 82^nd annual FEDA Convention. The association reported rave reviews for the lineup of speakers and programming created by convention chair Carl Gustafson (Ace Mart Restaurant Supply) and co-chair Jay Ringelheim (Globe Equipment Co.).

One of the most highly rated programs was “Corporate Culture: Is Yours by Design or by Default?” Speaker Jack Daly helped attendees recognize the importance of a proactive corporate culture and how it affects employee performance and a company’s bottom line. Also ranking highly with attendees was Ryan Estis, whose program “Passion on Purpose” offered practical advice to elevate employee engagement, unleash human potential and compete to win in the new world of work.

Another highlight of the convention was the program AutoQuotes Pres. Michael Greenwald conducted on the FEDA Data Interchange initiative. More than 70 manufacturers currently are participating in the program. 

The convention closed with the presentation, “A Patriot’s Calling: Leadership, Teamwork and Sacrifice.” Major Dan Rooney, a fighter pilot who served three tours of combat in Iraq, shared the importance of personal accountability, working together and ultimately “having the backs of your team when you are on the line.”

Convention chair Ringelheim and assistant chair Paul Parr (Hockenbergs) already have begun planning for next year’s convention, scheduled March 30-April 3, 2016, at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa in Tucson, Ariz.