My Fellow Aviation Professionals,
The 2022 ACPC Planning Committee is hard at work preparing for this year’s 65th annual Air Carriers Purchasing Conference at the magnificent Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina. The conference takes place August 27th through the 30th, 2022. Company Commitment registration begins on Monday, May 16th, with Individual Attendee registration the following Monday on May 23rd.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our industry. Our conference theme, “Stabilize the Skies”, speaks to our collective goal of navigating this difficult moment in history by creating new strategies, finding new solutions to new problems, and recognizing that old thought processes may need to be revisited and revised.
Face-to-face networking is, and will continue to be, the most effective method of building new relationships, strengthening existing partnerships, and exploring opportunities for collaboration. Relationships forged and fostered through in-person networking are stronger and longer-lasting than impersonal emails and phone calls. The ACPC was founded on this principle, and our conference is designed to provide as many networking avenues as possible. The entirety of the conference takes place at a single host hotel, so all business and social functions can be found on property.
I have the privilege of working with Stephanie Cootsona from Alaska Airlines, our 2022 Airline Chair, to make this year’s ACPC the best in the conference’s 65-year history. Our entire team is dedicated to making sure that each and every ACPC attendee is afforded ample opportunities to achieve the highest possible return on their investment.
Networking opportunities include:
• Airline Roundtables: Our signature event is held on Monday and Tuesday of the conference. Each registered supplier company will have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with multiple airline representatives seeking parts, repair, and services providers. To ensure that you have the best opportunity to meet with your preferred operators, you must register early!
• Aviation Networking Forum (ANF): The ANF is held on the Sunday of the conference. The first two (2) hours of this event are dedicated to Airline Personnel only, which gives exhibitors more face time with potential airlines customers. Again, register early to get your booth. This event sells out quickly every year!
• Meet and Greet Sessions: Located in our Hospitality Suite, Meet and Greet Sessions are an ideal setting for informal meetings with your customers and vendors. Tables will be provided for you to host 30-minute time slots throughout the ACPC. Please visit the ACPC website for more detailed information on this popular venue.
• Professional Development Sessions: We are close to finalizing our agenda of speakers to provide unsurpassed opportunities for professional growth. Our speakers will offer a wide range of topics relevant to the current aviation business climate. More details coming soon!
In addition to our business venues, the ACPC also offers the opportunity to unwind and enjoy some social time with your industry peers. You’ll enjoy top-notch meals with keynote speakers and entertainment. I am especially excited about our entertainment for this year’s conference! More details to come the next time you hear from me in a couple of months. Until then, please visit our website at www.acpc.com for conference news and agenda updates.
The ACPC Board of Directors, Airline Steering Committee, and our team of dedicated industry professionals who make up the Supplier Committee look forward to seeing you in San Diego, California this August!
My Best Regards,
Shawn A. Wilson
Director of Strategic Purchasing
VSE Aviation Services
2022 ACPC Supplier Chair