The Wisconsin Business & Technology Expo is an Event Worth Going to
One of the best things a businessperson can do for self and career is make a conscious effort to be around positive energy. The Wisconsin Business & Technology Expo, held over the past two days at State Fair Park in West Allis, was a congress of such energy. I had the good sense and wonderful privilege to enrich myself both personally and professionally by attending.
The exhibit hall was filled with the usual trade show stuff—signs and demonstrations and goodies for attendees. People working the booths were helpful and hopeful and by the end of today, tired! What struck me the most, however, was the level of energy and enthusiasm on display. People walked with purpose, shook hands like they meant it, and really engaged one another in conversation.
Information of all kinds was shared among individuals and groups—new promotions and job assignments, new products and services, company histories, growth stories, shifting market expectations and demands, problems solved, inspiration shared. What a cool gathering of people talking to people about their work, their plans, and the ways they serve our business community!
I also had the opportunity to present a seminar this afternoon—one of the last of the day—and I was impressed with the audience’s attention and interest. Not to mention their faith! It occurred to me as I was driving home that I had not told them who I am, what I do, and why I was talking to them about “You are the future.” Bless them all for allowing an anonymous person to challenge their thinking! Beyond recognizing that even we seasoned businesspeople need to keep learning, I’m conscious of how much we all want to figure things out and do well.
The Expo was a wonderful event, well attended, well executed and well worth the time to visit. The best part about it is that it brought together businesspeople who do not normally have the chance to interact. It stimulated conversations that got people thinking. It reinforced the success of so many, and gave hope to so many others about what is possible in the years ahead.
The Small Business Times took a risk three years ago in kicking off this event. The sheer human effort it takes to organize and manage all aspects is incredible. Think of it: exhibitors, sponsors, speakers, marketing, food and drink, awards, set-up and take-down logistics, electronic support, crowd control… the list goes on and on.
The Schroeder Group has been a premier sponsor—major donor, supporter, and marketer of the event—since the beginning. Time Warner Cable Business Class was also a premier sponsor. These are smart, visionary people.
Other major sponsors TDS Metrocom, Verizon Wireless, Wisconsin Athletic Club, Health Solutions, Destiny Health, R&R Insurance, The Wisconsin Heart Hospital, TEC, The Boerke Company, Cushman & Wakefield Alliance, Computer Aided Technology, We Energies, Lincoln State Bank, Society of Industrial and Office Realtors, and many others have joined hands and committed resources to benefit our business community here in Wisconsin. At a time of substantial challenge, the Expo is a beacon of light.
We need more forums for excellence. More chances to see good things that are happening, to bring diverse groups of people together to share ideas, learn from each other, encourage innovation, and celebrate success. I wonder: Are we smart enough to use the Wisconsin Business & Technology Expo as a prototype for progress and replicate it elsewhere? I’ll bet we are. Let’s get busy.
Categories: General AdviceAbout Susan Marshall
