By / Jessica Kirby
This year’s TIAC Conference, smaller in number than previous years but larger than ever in impact, was a weekend to remember. The energy of poignant, timely speakers who brought messages of hope, renewal, and humour, was inspiring for every attendee at the presentation program. With headliners like Jessica Holmes, celebrated comedian, author, and mental health advocate, and Dr. Robyn Hanley-Dafoe, expert on resilience and workplace wellness, there was no way out of the conference room without a brighter outlook and a more determined spirit.
What happens when you give a committed industry two years of reduced travel and gathering time and a free reign to innovate? They come back with game-changing technical news and advancements sure to launch the industry into a brighter future. Michele Jones and Dave Cox, representing education and training for National Insulation Association (NIA), shared industry-specific education and business resources “hidden in plain sight”. Luis Garcia, Efrain Gutierrez, James Low, and Chris Yatscoff updated members on important initiatives from the TIAC Innovators; and Tim Bieri, chair of the Association for Materials Protection and Performance, shared important information on corrosion under insulation.
Among these fabulous presentations, members found time to reconnect and spend time together with seated meals, smaller client dinners, and plenty of sightseeing outdoors. Niagara Falls never disappoints with jaw-dropping views of the falls right from the hotel balconies and a welcoming, walkable promenade everyone could enjoy and where every selfie desire could be fulfilled.
Although this year’s conference may have been a little different, the spirit of the TIAC family was out in full force, and TIAC in Niagara Falls might just go down in history as one of the warmest, most appreciated conferences the association has ever had.
The organizing committee shared a sneak peek of next year’s conference—TIAC’s 60th in beautiful Ottawa, Ontario, where conference chair Tim Pullyblank and TIAC’s fearless events administrator, Robin Baldwin, are sure to create a memorable event for all August 17-20, 2022. Mark your calendars now, and peruse the following page for some photographic inspiration to attend next year’s event. ▪
