More Expo Workshops Coming

© 2002 Door & Access Systems
Publish Date: Fall 2002
Author: Tom Wadsworth
Pages 42-43

More Expo Workshops Coming

The Institute for Door Dealer Education and Accreditation (IDEA) plans to expand workshop offerings at Expo by as much as 50 percent. Many of the new programs would be scheduled on Wednesday, the day before the usual full day of workshops and seminars.

To learn more about IDEA's plans, we talked with Barb Kelkhoff of Chamberlain, incoming IDEA president.

Why did IDEA decide to expand workshop offerings in 2003?

BK: As a result of Exposition surveys returned, attendees indicate that, due to scheduling conflicts, they are often unable to participate in all of the workshops they would like to attend.

Additionally, the demand for education at Expo has grown enormously in the past few years. We are working to respond to the demand for education and seeking to better meet the needs of door systems dealers who invest in attending Expo.

How many additional workshops do you anticipate in 2003?

BK: The IDA Expo Committee has not yet finalized the schedule. IDEA has proposed a 50 percent increase in the number of workshops by taking advantage of scheduling opportunities on Wednesday, as well as a full schedule on Thursday.

Why is this good news for dealers?

BK: If you were to ask dealers who attend educational workshops at Expo, you would find that many of them use the information they receive at these programs to improve their businesses. Many learn ways to increase sales and profitability. Others find ways to create a better work environment for their employees, which is essential to success.

There are as many benefits to education as there are people who attend the classes. Dealers who attend Expo and participate in workshops find they can outperform others in the marketplace. Getting a higher return on Expo is a great investment, and increasing profitable business activity is very good for dealers.

Editor's Note: Kelkhoff also revealed that IDEA is preparing to launch "a new training venture that will change the industry." IDEA will announce details later.