mcaa's 2009 convention delivers on theme of "learn.enjoy.grow."

More than 2,000 people came to MCAA 2009 in Scottsdale, AZ from March 1-5 to experience and celebrate the association’s best – an exceptional line-up of distinguished and accomplished speakers, engaging educational sessions, and entertaining social events.

Speakers from government, business, journalism, broadcasting, medicine, and professional sports and others taught us how to enhance our business and professional lives even in the face of economic adversity.

Educational sessions offered attendees valuable information about how to: use business-building tools effectively, such as BIM and retro-commissioning; plan for and recover from an unexpected disaster; avoid impending business failure; attract and keep the new generation of star talent; make the most of a positive business outcome; prepare for the U.S. Green Building Council’s new LEED rating system; and reduce the risks and costs associated with welding.

Entertainment events headlined by the music of Billy Joel and performed by Michael Cavanaugh, star of the Broadway musical Movin’ Out, and FiftyAmpFuse gave attendees unforgettable memories of an amazing convention experience.

Kansas City Attendees at the convention included staff and member contractors of MCA-KC, as well as representatives from Local 533, along with their guests. In addition to participating in the “Learning & Growing” activities, the group found time for the “Enjoy” element of the convention as well, including taking part in several Kansas City-exclusive events. Specifically, this year’s traditional “Kansas City Night” treated guests to dinner at the elegant T. Cook’s Restaurant at Royal Palms Resort and Spa. Other KC-specific activities included a golf outing, a spouse outing, and an open hospitality suite for entertaining between events.