Sat, April 26th – Wed, April 30th, 2025

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Tampa, Florida

2025 Annual Convention & Exhibitor Showcase

Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds

AGENDA

Detailed Schedule

Sat, Apr 26
1:00 - 5:00 pm
Registration
MHEDA Registration Desk
Stop by the MHEDA registration desk to pick up your badge and to get additional details on Convention. The registration desk is also a great place to ask questions, get assistance, and learn about last-minute updates or opportunities to enhance your convention experience. The MHEDA team will be there ready to assist you.
Sun, Apr 27
7:00 am - 2:00 pm
Golf
Liz Richards Scholarship Golf Tournament
Join us for an exciting day on the green at our 1st annual Liz Richards Scholarship golf tournament, where camaraderie meets competition! This event offers a perfect blend of networking and friendly rivalry, set against the backdrop of the beautiful TPC Tampa Bay golf course. Don’t miss this chance to showcase your skills, support a great cause, and create lasting memories.
Sun, Apr 27
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Registration
MHEDA Registration Desk
Stop by the MHEDA registration desk to pick up your badge and to get additional details on Convention. The registration desk is also a great place to ask questions, get assistance, and learn about last-minute updates or opportunities to enhance your convention experience. The MHEDA team will be there ready to assist you.
Sun, Apr 27
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Re-Charge
Re-Charge Lounge
Recharge your electronics and yourself throughout convention in our lounge complete with multiple charging stations and comfortable seating.
Sun, Apr 27
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Bike Tour
City Showcase Bike Tour
On this 8-mile tour, you'll explore Tampa's Riverwalk, Downtown, Old Hyde Park, Beautiful Bayshore Blvd, Harbor Island and more.
Sun, Apr 27
12:00 - 4:00 pm
Set-Up
Exhibitor's Showcase Set-Up
This is the dedicated time to set up your exhibit to create an impactful impression that attracts attendees and sparks meaningful conversations. Need assistance or have questions during set-up? The MHEDA staff will be available to assist you.
Sun, Apr 27
4:00 - 5:00 pm
Women in Industry
Women in Industry Event
Join industry peers at this networking event for women in the Material Handling Industry, make connections, grow your network and share insights along the way.
Sun, Apr 27
5:00 - 6:00 pm
Reception
Newcomers' Reception
New members, first time convention attendees are invited to join the MHEDA Board and Manufacturer's Board of Advisors to network while they share insight into what to expect from your first convention. This is a great way to meet new people and learn more about the MHEDA convention experience.
Sun, Apr 27
6:30 - 9:30 pm
Party
Havana Nights – Opening Party Cruise
Enjoy the beautiful Tampa Bay waterfront aboard Florida’s largest dining yacht! Set sail in air-conditioned luxury aboard a stunning vessel featuring breathtaking waterfront views and beautiful open-air decks, all while networking with fellow MHEDA members in a relaxed and unforgettable setting. Join us for an evening of dinner, drinks and interactive entertainment on this amazing yacht.
Sun, Apr 27
10:00 - 11:00 pm
Emerging Leaders
Emerging Leaders After Dark
Join your industry peers for Emerging Leaders After Dark, an exciting new networking event designed to connect and inspire. This relaxed, after-hours gathering is the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and grow your network in a vibrant and engaging setting.
Mon, Apr 28
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Registration
MHEDA Registration Desk
Stop by the MHEDA registration desk to pick up your badge and to get additional details on Convention. The registration desk is also a great place to ask questions, get assistance, and learn about last-minute updates or opportunities to enhance your convention experience. The MHEDA team will be there ready to assist you.
Mon, Apr 28
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Re-Charge
Re-Charge Lounge
Recharge your electronics and yourself throughout convention in our lounge complete with multiple charging stations and comfortable seating.
Mon, Apr 28
7:00 - 8:00 am
Breakfast
Breakfast
Join us for a delicious breakfast buffet, where you can start your day with a variety of hearty and flavorful options. It’s the perfect way to fuel up while enjoying great conversation and company!
Mon, Apr 28
8:00 - 8:20 am
Meeting
Annual Business Meeting
Join us for the Annual Meeting, where members come together to reflect on the year’s achievements and celebrate our shared successes. It’s a valuable opportunity to connect with peers, gain insights, and contribute to shaping the association’s future.
Mon, Apr 28
8:20 - 9:30 am
Keynote Presentation
Fundamentals for Success in Business and Life
Presented by Daymond John, Shark Tank Investor, Entrepreneur, and FUBU CEO
Through his many successes as well as failures, Daymond John has learned a few things about getting the best out of business and life. The keys to success include learning how to establish the right mindset and following a few fundamental principles, Daymond John’s “S.H.A.R.K Points”. this session will energize and inspire you for 2025 and beyond!


Mon, Apr 28
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Showcase
Exhibitor Showcase
Explore the products and services at our Showcase, featuring over 90 exhibitors from across the industry. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with leaders in the industry, discover innovative solutions, and build valuable relationships.
Mon, Apr 28
11:30 am - 3:30 pm
Tour
Hyde Park Food Tour
Bursting with energy, art, and history, Tampa offers an unforgettable culinary journey. Experience a “one-of-a-kind food tour” featuring delicious tastings and refreshing drinks. The tour includes stops at four exceptional local restaurants, each showcasing the city’s unique flavors and charm.
Mon, Apr 28
12:30 - 1:30 pm
Lunch
Lunch
Join us for a delicious lunch buffet, offering a variety of flavorful dishes to satisfy your appetite. It’s the perfect opportunity to recharge and connect with others in a relaxed setting!
Mon, Apr 28
1:30 - 2:30 pm
Roundtable
Material Handling Business Trends - Roundtable Discussions
Discuss the 2025 Trends with fellow attendees during the Roundtable Discussions. Share best practices, gain insight from other industry leaders and build your network along the way.
Mon, Apr 28
1:30 - 2:30 pm
Workshop
Leading Relationships
Presented by Steve McClatchy, Keynote Speaker and Author
The skills of communicating effectively, working with diverse multi-generational teams, setting clear expectations, giving feedback, navigating differing opinions, resolving conflict, working remotely, and holding others accountable can be the most important skills you will ever develop. In this session you will learn the skills needed to build relationships strong enough to handle the pressures and tensions inherent in building, leading and being part of a collaborative team.
Mon, Apr 28
1:30 - 2:30 pm
Workshop
Project Management
Presented by Andrea Jones, CEO of The Executagility® Company and Principal at Andrea Jones Consulting®
Your team has day jobs delivering the products and services your customers need. What happens when the same team who runs these daily operations is expected to execute your internal growth projects? In this interactive workshop, participants will learn how to quickly determine how well your organization is prepared to both run their day jobs while simultaneously executing your growth and improvement projects.
Mon, Apr 28
2:30 - 2:45 pm
Break
Ice Cream Break
Take a sweet break during the convention and treat yourself to a refreshing ice cream.
Mon, Apr 28
2:45 - 3:45 pm
General Session
How to Leverage AI and Tech Innovations to Reshape your Business and Cybersecurity
Presented by Theresa Payton, former White House CIO, founder and CEO at Fortalice Solutions
It’s possible to turn the tables on cybercriminals. In this session Theresa Payton will take a deep dive into real-world cases along with live AI demonstrations that show how criminals attack you but more importantly, how to future-proof yourself and your company from their attacks. You will walk away empowered by clear strategies to thrive in today’s digital landscape.
Mon, Apr 28
3:45 - 4:00 pm
Break
Afternoon Break
Take a moment to relax and recharge during the afternoon break. Enjoy light refreshments, network with fellow attendees, and prepare for the exciting events ahead.
Mon, Apr 28
4:00 - 4:45 pm
Give Back
MHEDA Gives Back
MHEDA's Give Back event exemplifies our commitment to community engagement and social responsibility. These initiatives unite members to support local causes. By participating, members not only strengthen their networks but also make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.
Mon, Apr 28
4:45 - 5:45 pm
Happy Hour
Exhibitor Showcase Happy Hour
Join us for the Exhibitor Happy Hour, a perfect opportunity to relax, network, and connect with industry peers in a lively and informal setting.
Mon, Apr 28
5:45 - 6:45 pm
Reception
First Citizens Bank Hospitality Gathering
Join us for a special event where you’ll enjoy great food, drinks, and networking in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss this chance to relax and engage with industry peers while showing appreciation for our valued sponsor!
Mon, Apr 28
5:45 - 6:45 pm
Reception
5th Annual Vsimple Southern Gathering
Join us for a special event that blends Southern charm with valuable networking opportunities. Enjoy an evening of great food, refreshing drinks, and warm hospitality, all sponsored by Vsimple. Don’t miss this beloved tradition—it’s always a crowd favorite!
Tue, Apr 29
7:00 am - 3:00 pm
Registration
MHEDA Registration Desk
Stop by the MHEDA registration desk to pick up your badge and to get additional details on Convention. The registration desk is also a great place to ask questions, get assistance, and learn about last-minute updates or opportunities to enhance your convention experience. The MHEDA team will be there ready to assist you.
Tue, Apr 29
7:00 am - 3:00 pm
Re-Charge
Re-Charge Lounge
Recharge your electronics and yourself throughout convention in our lounge complete with multiple charging stations and comfortable seating.
Mon, Apr 29
7:30 - 8:30 am
Breakfast
Breakfast
Join us for a delicious breakfast buffet, where you can start your day with a variety of hearty and flavorful options. It’s the perfect way to fuel up while enjoying great conversation and company!
Tue, Apr 29
8:30 - 9:30 am
General Session
Make the Impossible Possible
Presented by Ben Nemtin, Author, Speaker and Co-founder of MTV's The Buried Life Movement
Ben Nemtin reminds us that it’s never too late to start your list and leave your lasting impact on the world. Whether you need to set bigger goals or reach the ones you already have, Ben Nemtin will help you get from ambition to accomplishment. Ben’s message of radical possibility will leave you inspired and equipped with tools to tackle the seemingly insurmountable. His system of achieving impossible goals demystifies daunting tasks by turning dreams into projects and creates inspiration through action and accountability.
Tue, Apr 29
9:30 - 9:45 am
Break
Morning Break
Take a refreshing pause during the morning break at the convention! Enjoy light snacks, coffee, and beverages while recharging for the sessions ahead.
Tue, Apr 29
9:45 - 11:00 am
Workshop
Disruption-Proof Your Business for the Workplace of Tomorrow
Presented by Claudia St. John, Founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors™
Labor market disruption is affecting the ability of businesses to attract, retain, and develop a skilled and adaptable workforce. This session is ideal for leaders navigating the impact of labor market disruption, grappling with worker shortage, and seeking ways to minimize future workforce risks.

Tue, Apr 29
9:45 - 11:00 am
Workshop
2025 and Beyond: Strategic Moves for Business Growth and Sustainability
Presented by Gene Marks, CPA, National Business Columnist, Author and Speaker
Business leaders are facing significant challenges over the next two years. During this session, Gene Marks will walk you through some of the biggest issues facing your business in 2025 and shares his advice and guidance on how the smartest readers, clients and leaders in his community are successfully navigating these challenges.
Tue, Apr 29
9:45 - 11:00 am
Workshop
Three Tips for Big Change
Presented by Andrea Jones, CEO of The Executagility® Company and Principal at Andrea Jones Consulting®
Nothing is certain except change. In this session, you will learn the stages of change for individuals, how to develop a high-level change plan and apply change management best practices to drive business results.
Tue, Apr 30
11:00 - 11:15 am
Break
Morning Break
Take a refreshing pause during the morning break at the convention! Enjoy light snacks, coffee, and beverages while recharging for the sessions ahead.
Tue, Apr 29
11:15 am - 12:15 pm
General Session
The Next Renaissance
Presented by Zack Kass, Former Head of Go-to-Market at OpenAI, AI Futurist and Speaker
Embark on a journey through the transformative power of AI, poised to redefine the future of business and humanity. This presentation highlights how technology is reshaping industries, organizations, and our very way of life. Providing thorough insight into the latest technological advancements, offering a clear understanding of AI’s trajectory and its profound implications for both businesses and individuals. This presentation will leave your organization inspired and equipped with actionable strategies to harness AI’s potential, positioning you to thrive amidst rapid advancements.
Tue, Apr 29
11:30 am - 2:30 pm
Tour
Lunch at The Columbia Restaurant
For more than 119 years, the Columbia Restaurant has served Spanish-Cuban cuisine to the state of Florida, using family recipes and tradition. Enjoy this award-winning cuisine while learning about the history of this famous Tampa restaurant.
Tue, Apr 29
12:15 - 1:15 pm
Lunch
Lunch
Join us for a delicious lunch buffet, offering a variety of flavorful dishes to satisfy your appetite. It’s the perfect opportunity to recharge and connect with others in a relaxed setting!
Tue, Apr 29
1:15 - 2:15 pm
Workshop
Empower Your Workforce for Success
Presented by Claudia St. John, Founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors™
This session will explore how you can significantly improve employee engagement—no matter the size of your organization or budget. This esession is ideal for leaders wanting to improve employee performance; seeking ways to motivate those they lead; looking to align engagement strategies with broader organizational goals.

Tue, Apr 29
1:15 - 2:15 pm
Workshop
Get the Meeting No One Else Can
Presented by Sam Richter, founder and CEO of SBR Worldwide/Know More
In today's world, it's no longer enough to be interesting. To succeed in sales, you must be interested. What's important to the other person? How can you hyper-personalize your message so it gets noticed? When you know more, you'll find the right opportunities, at the right time, with the right message to get meetings with decision-makers that others only dream about.


Tue, Apr 29
1:15 - 2:15 pm
Workshop
Key Takeaways from MHEDA's DSC Report
Presented by Gene Marks, CPA, National Business Columnist, Author and Speaker
MHEDA’s DSC (Distributor Statistical Comparison) Report is an annual financial benchmarking study that provides key insights into how high-profit firms generate better profit numbers. This session will focus on the critical statistics from the 2024 report and how to use it to improve your business.
Presented by Gene Marks, CPA, National Business Columnist, Author and Speaker
Wed, Apr 30
2:30 - 2:45 pm
Break
Afternoon Break
Take a moment to relax and recharge during the afternoon break. Enjoy light refreshments, network with fellow attendees, and prepare for the exciting session ahead.
Tue, Apr 29
2:45 - 4:00 pm
General Session
The Economy
Presented by Brian Beaulieu, Consulting Principal and Chief Economist, ITR Economics
2025 and beyond will present opportunities and challenges to business leaders. Inflation and interest rates will return on the wings of government spending, a tightening labor market, global demand, and higher-cost production inputs from raw materials to electricity. We will discuss the timing and the actions to take to get your company ready for the next few years and the rest of the decade. The information we present on the various domestic and global landscapes will allow decision-makers to position their companies for maximum return through the coming years.

Tue, Apr 29
6:30 - 7:00 pm
Reception
Cocktail Hour
Unwind and mingle at the Cocktail Hour Reception, the perfect way to kick off the evening in style.
Tue, Apr 29
7:00 - 10:00 pm
Closing Party
Tampa Beats and Brews
Savor an evening of sampling a variety of craft drinks from local breweries, paired with delicious food stations to satisfy every taste. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with a DJ spinning your favorite tunes, or take advantage of designated areas for networking and conversations. With great flavors, music, and spaces to connect, it’s the perfect blend of fun to have with your MHEDA friends!
Wed, Apr 30
8:00 - 9:00 am
Breakfast
Breakfast
Join us for a delicious breakfast buffet, where you can start your day with a variety of hearty and flavorful options. It’s the perfect way to fuel up while enjoying great conversation and company before heading home.
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