Several years ago, the R&R team started talking about the idea of creating and building a new conference in the restoration industry. With so many conferences vying for time and resources of a relatively small, niche industry, we knew if we were going to start a conference, it had to be something different. That is how the idea of Preparing to Respond was born. Thanks to the amazing market research team at BNP Media, some of you really helped us narrow down the topic, the location, and the time of year through a survey sent out two years ago. With so many events happening every spring, it was clear from you, our readers, that events later in the year were preferable – even if in the midst of hurricane season. And, who doesn’t want an excuse to be at a Florida golf resort for work?

Now that you know a little bit of the background of this brand new event, here are five things you should know about Preparing to Respond:

1.  It’s for Everyone!

Have you checked out the speaker lineup yet? They are covering catastrophe loss from every angle, meaning there are sessions for owners and technicians alike. Want to create better estimates that get you paid more? Done! Need help deciding whether to travel to a CAT or stay home? Done! Not sure how to handle a large scale odor removal project? Yep, that’s covered too – and SO much more. From drying, to estimating, contents, odor, crime scene, insurance, and so on, you’ll learn it all from some well-known thought leaders in the restoration industry.

2.  Education & CECs!

You just read about some of the educational sessions happening at Preparing to Respond. Each session during the day-and-a-half conference will be about one hour long. This year’s keynote speaker is Rusty Amarante, BELFOR’s Director of Operations and the president of 1-800-WATER DAMAGE. He will be speaking on the risks and rewards of CAT work.

Plus, for those arriving to Palm Harbor a little earlier, Annissa Coy is offering a stellar pre-conference workshop on how to get into a cold market and make $100,000 in 10 days. Annissa has a proven track record of success in the restoration industry, and will have very valuable knowledge and resources to share during the three-hour workshop Tuesday afternoon.

Curious about Continuing Education Credits? Preparing to Respond attendees can receive 10 hours of IICRC CECs as well as 10 CEC Contact Hours from the Restoration Industry Association (RIA).

3.  Networking!

Between receptions, the golf outing, meals, and breaks, there is well more than 10 hours of networking time at Preparing to Respond. That means time to network and meet fellow restorers, as well as the amazing sponsors and exhibitors. The golf scramble on Thursday afternoon will be the perfect opportunity to unwind after the event.

4.  Teams save $$!

Early bird registration rates end Aug. 31, so there is still time to save $100 on general registration prices. Plus, if you plan to bring more than one person from your team, you can save even more money per person!

5.  Register, then have to respond to a CAT? No problem!

We want you to be able to register with total peace of mind, which is why you automatically are covered by cancellation insurance when you register. Registrations are pouring in, so don’t wait to reserve your spot!

See you in Palm Harbor this October!