Educational Sessions

Get It On! What It Means to Lead the Way | Thursday, April 19, 2018 (8:00–9:15 a.m.)

Keynote Speaker: Keni Thomas, Ranger in the “Blackhawk Down” Mission

The Army Ranger motto is: Rangers Lead the Way. As a Task Force Ranger in the “Blackhawk Down” operation, Keni Thomas, will share the core skills developed and needed by a Ranger—leadership, training, and planning. Keni will also share extraordinary stories of leadership and teamwork from his missions as a Ranger, and the importance of always striving to improve yourself and to create a positive impact on those around you.

The Magic of Exceptional Customer Service: Keep “Plussing” the Show | Friday, April 20, 2018 (8:30–9:45 a.m.)

Keynote Speaker: Doug Lipp, International Consultant and Former Head of Training, Disney University

How has Disney managed to keep its employees and customers so fiercely devoted to the brand? Learn from Disney’s practices to catapult your organization’s service strategies to even higher levels through the 4 components that are at the heart of Disney University: innovate, support, educate, and entertain. Plus, explore how legendary service is a delicate balance between art and science. In this ever-changing economy, more companies are realizing the strategic importance of transforming their service culture to differentiate themselves from competitors.

The Mechanical Insulation Industry Perspective Panel | Friday, April 20, 2018 (10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.)

During NIA's 63^rd Annual Convention, individuals from a variety of industry segments will share their collective expertise on topics that impact day-to-day operations and larger industry challenges. Attendee questions are encouraged during this session. If you have specific questions for the panelists, please email events@insulation.org. Additional panelists, including a commercial and industrial engineer, will be added to the discussion.

Update from Helmets to Hardhats | Wednesday, April 18, 2018 (11:40 a.m.–1:00 p.m.)

Helmets to Hardhats is a national, non-profit program that connects National Guard, Reserve, retired, and transitioning active-duty military service members to skilled training and quality career opportunities in the construction industry. Helmets to Hardhats Executive Director Darrell Roberts will provide an overview of the program, training and recruitment strategies, and 2018 updates and outcomes.

Speaker: Darrell Roberts, Executive Director, Helmets to Hardhats

Thermal Insulation Inspector Program (TIIP) Overview | Thursday, April 19, 2018 (10:10–10:45 a.m.)

NIA is developing a new program that will offer certified mechanical insulation inspector courses for commercial, industrial, and cryogenic applications. During this session, Ron King, NIA Past President and Consultant, will provide an overview of the program, discuss the benefits of the certification, and ask for comments on the various program components.

Speaker: Ron King, Consultant, Honorary Member, Past President, NIA

Technical Presentations | Thursday, April 19, 2018 (10:45–11:45 a.m.)

Dumb Asked Questions
Representatives from the Technical Information Committee will share some of the “dumb” questions that they have heard over the years. These sometimes comical stories will help everyone learn how to understand technical literature and how to design a system properly. Come, listen, and learn from someone else’s mistake so that you don’t make it yourself! Panelists include: Todd Price, Founder and President, Price Manufacturing (not pictured)

Please send your stories to Julie McLaughlin ahead of time to have them included in the presentation or share them live from the audience during the presentation. Please submit (1) the question you have been asked, and (2) how you answered to solve the issue and we will share both with the audience. Questions and stories can be presented as anonymous or attributed, as you prefer.

2018 Convention