2017 Florida Transportation Builders’ Convention

Over the past weekend, our associates, Jerry Marks and Crystal Vance of TriAd’s Publication Staff attended the Florida Transportation Builders’ Association Convention held at Amelia Island’s Ritz Carlton.  TriAd Marketing & Media has had the privilege of working with the FTBA for many years now. TriAd covered more than 22 hours of convention activities for Florida Transportation Builder magazine, which is one of five association magazines we produce.

Every year, the summer issue of the magazine is released at the convention and is a huge hit! In addition, TriAd Marketing & Media provided little bottles of aloe to help relieve the sunburn from the previous day’s outdoor activities. The convention is an excellent networking opportunity for the members of the organization.

This was the 11^th Convention for Jerry and 7^th for Crystal. “Being an FTBA Convention “veteran,” this event is an opportunity to reacquaint myself with FTBA staff, members and their families, as well as stay atop the issues facing Florida, its heavy-construction industry and transportation system. I have developed a tradition of sorts with several FTBA members and FDOT staff in taking yearly photos of families. This year I was reminded of a photo I had taken six years ago of a then high school sophomore that is now a college senior; the parents thought so much of the “family photo” that it remains on their cellphone to this day” stated Jerry.

“FTBA – from the association staff to its members – know how to host an event and throw a party. From Thursday’s Welcome Reception to Sunday’s Prayer Breakfast – and the more than 60 hours of scholarship breakfasts, general sessions, roundtable discussions, chairman induction and more in between – the association’s staff and resort staff had everything well organized. This was appreciated not only by attendees, speakers and guests, but also by myself in covering the events for the upcoming magazine issue” discussed Jerry about the convention.

“For me, I always enjoy the passing of the gavel to the new FTBA Chairman.  This year Bob Schafer (Ranger Construction) gave a charming speech that involved a humorous video dedicated to FTBA President Bob Burleson about herding cats https://youtu.be/PZ0ur5GKC0w and also reaffirmed that the FTBA members are a family”, Crystal exclaimed when asked about her favorite parts of the annual convention.

The FTBA associates work tirelessly to make the convention fun, informative and a great opportunity to see industry partners. Crystal also enjoyed the yoga, pool party and as always, the family friendly costume party that takes place every Friday night of the convention. The theme for the costume party changes every year, which allows people to expand their creativity from year to year. The theme for this year was “A”, every costume had to be something that started with the letter A. The convention is the perfect mix of business and fun!

To our clients, we thank you not only for the hospitality we receive when we attend these events, but also the privilege of working with you. Having the opportunity to cover our clients’ annual meetings, conventions and conferences is one of the nicest benefits of doing what we do. We look forward to more years together!