HITEC 2013 is just a couple of months away and there is already a ton of buzz surrounding this year’s show. If you have not registered, I suggest you do so before May 20th to save yourself or your employer some money.
If you are trying to justify your attendance and time away from the office, keep in mind the following reasons HITEC 2013 is not to be missed.
In no particular order:
1. High-profile Keynote Speakers
Once again, HFTP has managed to secure some pretty impressive keynote speakers for HITEC 2013. These speakers will knock your socks off with the level of expertise they have to share on the trending topics:
- Cyber-security Solutions — From the Firing Lines to a Fireside Chat: CIO to CIO with Theresa Payton, former Whitehouse CIO.
- The Monetary Revolution — The End of Money with author David Wolman and Wired magazine contributing editor.
- Hospitality IT — Meet the Techs: CIOs Discuss Today’s IT Challenges, moderated by Scot Campbell, vice president and CIO of Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc.
2. The City by Nature
By attending HITEC 2013, you will have a chance to immerse yourself in a truly unique city. A city that has managed to rack up over 40 different accolades so far this year. A city known not only for its natural surroundings, but also for the good eats, great shopping and a vibrant urban scene.
With all that Minneapolis has to offer, it’s no wonder that Travel + Leisure magazine named it one of the Hottest Travel Destinations of 2013.
So, if you are attending HITEC and interested in enjoying the city, pack a comfortable pair of shoes and check out the list of 150 things to do. I am sure you will find time for one or two.
3. TechTours
Returning to HITEC 2013 is the opportunity for attendees to get a pre-show, hands-on experience with some of the technologies and solutions found on the show floor. This year’s TechTour categories include: WiFi/High Speed Internet Access, Mobility, IPTV, PMS/POS and Security. Remember, you must have a full registration to participate in this top-notch educational opportunity.
4. TechTalks
Have innovative idea you would like to share on technology trends such as, Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), High-Speed Internet Access, Online Marketing, Business Intelligence, Future, Technology Architecture or Mobility? Take some time to check out the NEW TechTalks, live from the HITEC expo floor. Don’t feel like speaking? That’s ok, these free flowing conversations are open to all attendees, stop by and hear what others have to say.
5. Fun & Games
It is true that HITEC is packed with a stellar education program and un-paralleled hospitality technology showcase. But, there are also other activities that keep attendees coming back year after year. The fun and games!
With the host city known as the City by Nature, it seemed only appropriate that this year’s opening party theme be Party by Nature. Who can say no to excellent local cuisine, food, and breathtaking Minneapolis views? All of this and the chance to network with fellow attendees can be found at the Nicollet Island Pavilion situated on the grand Mississippi River.
Participate in the chance to win cool prizes with the HITEC 2013 ScanVenger Hunt. Attendees will be led on a hunt to find QR codes scattered throughout the expo and education halls. Scan the codes and answer the questions for the chance to win. You could leave HITEC 2013 not only with a wealth of industry knowledge but also a great prize.
