Independent Laboratory Distributor’s Association, Fall 2023
The Lab Depot’s CEO John Seelke, Marketing Manager Danielle Schmidt, and Digital Marketing Specialist Faith Rose attended another successful Independent Laboratory Distributor’s Association (ILDA) conference. The conference was hosted at the Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch, Scottsdale, Arizona, from October 21st to October 24th, 2023.
From left to right:
Faith Rose, John Seelke, Danielle Schmidt
To start the conference, the participants hiked through the Phoenix area to get to “Hole in Rock” for team bonding and sightseeing. After the hike, they visited the Desert Botanical Gardens. The garden consisted of over 15,000 desert plants that thrive in the dry Arizona climate.
To end the day, the board members took the opportunity to meet and greet the new and first-time meeting attendees at Sunset Plaza. Dinner followed shortly after, with everyone in attendance to distribute awards and additional introductions.
Hole In Rock, Arizona
On Monday, the ILDA Business Meetings commenced. The Lab Depot team attended vendor presentations, which included introductions from Cole Parmer and Isolab.
ILDA then hosted two guest speakers to give some knowledge about technology and human resources.
CEO Tahjar Roamartinez discussed technology's future and how businesses can protect their manufacturing and supply chain. She also discussed AI and how it's changing the manufacturing industry, for good or bad.
Another guest speaker, Shivani Nadarajah, is a senior HR director and a stand-up comedian. In her speech, she discussed incorporating humor in the workplace to build connections and trust. All while avoiding trouble with HR by ensuring jokes are work-appropriate.
That evening, attendees could enjoy mechanical music and artist galleries at the reception and dinner at the Music Instrument Museum.
Tuesday came another set of business meetings with Sureway Group, Inc. and Breakwood Enterprises presenters. The day ended with panelists Christian Petrilli of BRANDTECH, Jim Averso of I.W. Tremont, and Jim Duffey of United Scientific discussing operational success. The panel discussed market disruptions, their adjustments, the outcomes, and potential future regulations that could affect their business.
John with Drew Hamilton of CELLTREAT
Thanks to ILDA, connections became stronger and provided an opportunity to meet old and new faces. Everyone departed with a better understanding of the industry and enjoyed what Scottsdale had to provide.