Akron, Ohio – The International Tire Exhibition & Conference (ITEC) scheduled for September will switch to a virtual format in light of current health concerns and travel restrictions surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.
In its new format, ITEC 2020 Virtual Edition (#ITEC2020) will expand its format and take place from September 8-18, 2020, with live conference sessions every weekday for nine days featuring keynote speakers, individual presentations and panel discussions, with sessions each morning and afternoon.
The event’s keynote speaker is Brian Goldstine, President of Mobility Solutions and Fleet Management at Bridgestone Americas. Other prominent speakers are from Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., ExxonMobil and Kumho Petrochemical. One session will be devoted to the ITEC Women’s Leadership Panel Discussion. “Ask the Expert” Livestreams with Q & A’s with show exhibitors will run daily at 12:00 p.m. within the scheduled agenda.
In addition to the conference sessions, show organizers will award the Harold Herzlich Distinguished Technology Achievement Medal. The honor recognizes innovators in tire manufacturing, tire reliability or performance. The award is named after Herzlich, the longtime technical editor of Rubber & Plastics News. Herzlich is also chairman emeritus of ITEC.
A unique matchmaking service will run at ITEC virtual, creating networking opportunities for participants and easy opportunities to connect buyers and sellers. Each attendee will be given recommended matches based on their registration profiles and be able to search for additional matches using category and keyword filters. Attendees will also be able to chat and to request and accept video call meet ups via the application.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown unprecedented challenges to every individual and organization throughout the world,” said Debbie Hershfield, ITEC show director. “Health concerns and travel restrictions prevent us from hosting our conventional trade show in September this year. Nevertheless, we are delighted to be able to offer the tire manufacturing industry a virtual event to share all the latest knowledge and innovation, while giving participants the same opportunities to network and learn that they tell us they prize so much at ITEC.”
In its 14th edition, ITEC 2020 Virtual Edition will offer an all-access pass to conference attendees. The virtual format of this year’s event is expected to substantially increase attendee numbers due to the ease and simplicity of attending via online access from anywhere in the world. Registration is free through to July 31, and priced at just $149 from August 1 through the event. To register, go to: https://www.itec-tireshow.com/itec_register_attend.cfm
A range of sponsorship opportunities are available for companies wishing to highlight their involvement in ITEC Virtual to maximize attendee engagement and foster wider awareness across the sector. Companies interested in sponsorships at ITEC Virtual should contact Sales Director Christine Zernick at czernick@crain.com.
ITEC Virtual is organized by Rubber & Plastics News and owned by Crain Communications Inc. Event website: www.itec-tireshow.com