Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1084285
These individuals travel many miles for the opportunity to hear the latest in almond industry research, market and trade updates, food safety regulations and much more. "Farming often requires early mornings and late nights, leaving little time for much else," said Jenny Nicolau, manager of Industry Relations at the Almond Board of California (ABC). "The Almond Conference offers a break from the day-to-day and gives people a chance to step back and connect with people from all aspects of the almond industry on the topics that drive success from the orchard to market." 46 years, decades of information What started as a small gathering of industry members 46 years ago has evolved into an international event, bringing together almond growers and handlers, researchers, pest control advisers, farm advisors and more. For Matt Visser of Visser Family Farms in Ripon, The Almond Conference delivers valuable updates on production research trials that ABC funds to assist growers in best caring for their crop. The Value Adds Up at The Almond Conference Every year, in the first week of December, thousands of people meet in Sacramento for the premier event in the California almond industry — The Almond Conference. "I've faithfully gone to The Almond Conference for the past 10 years," Visser said. "From a grower's perspective, it's the conference to go to if you want to hear from top-notch speakers. I wouldn't miss it." But it's not only the growers who find repeated value in this annual event. "I've been an exhibitor at The Almond Conference for over 10 years," said Chad Cummings, director of Sales and Marketing for JKB Energy, who is a sponsor of the Conference. "It's a great show to be at. We wouldn't miss it for the world." Countless connections among 4,000 attendees In 2012, The Almond Conference moved from Modesto to Sacramento to accommodate its continued growth in attendance. Since then, the conference doubled in size, with nearly 4,000 attendees in 2017 — representing 33 states and 24 countries. Grower attendance doubled during that time, and attendees who may have driven into Modesto for the day are now finding such value in the entire conference that they are willing and excited to stay for the full three-day event. Common trends from the annual attendee post- conference survey include endorsements such as, "The Almond Conference is a must-attend event," "The myriad of sessions and topics covered is second to none," and "This conference is the best place to connect, network and learn from fellow industry members." With a growing number of attendees comes more opportunity to connect with fellow industry members, something Pam Jimenez, marketing services specialist for Satake USA, appreciates. "Satake is proud of its legacy as an exhibitor and supporter of The Almond Conference over many, many years," Jimenez said. "This premier almond event gives Satake the opportunity to showcase our latest technology and network with all segments of the almond industry. It's a must for us year after year." Ultimately, while involvement in and passion for the almond industry may be what drives people to The Almond Conference for the first time, it's the relationships formed and knowledge gained that keep them coming back. 19